Pets in China are Earning ‘Snack Money’ at Pet Cafes
Discover how pets in China are Earning ‘Snack Money’ at Pet Cafes working part-time in cafés and earning treats for their playful services, while helping their owners save money!
The Growing Trend of Pet Cafes in China
In recent years, pet cafés in China have surged in popularity, with a unique twist – the animals aren’t just there for fun, they’re actually “working” to earn what’s called “snack money.” This trend is attracting both locals and tourists who visit cafés to enjoy their time surrounded by pets, typically dogs and cats.
Pet owners are now sending their furry friends to work in cafés, where they can socialize with other animals and customers, giving the pets a chance to stay active while owners get some benefits too. These cafés often charge a fee, allowing customers to interact with pets, making the café a unique and enjoyable experience.
How Pets Are Earning ‘Snack Money’
The term “snack money” comes from the idea that these pets are essentially earning their keep in the form of treats. While the pets work at these cafés during the day, they return home to their families in the evening. It’s not just a fun, cute trend, it’s also a smart financial move for pet owners.
One example is Jane Xue, a PhD student in China, who sent her 2-year-old Samoyed, OK, to work at a dog café in Fuzhou. Jane was initially intrigued by the concept and found it beneficial, as her dog gets to interact with others, and she no longer has to keep the air-conditioning running at home all day while she’s away.
Pet Cafes Booming Across China
According to CBNData, the number of cat cafes in China has been growing at an astonishing rate of 200% per year. As of 2023, there are more than 4,000 establishments, with both dog and cat cafés becoming increasingly popular.
These cafes typically charge an entrance fee, ranging from 30-60 yuan ($4-8.5) per person. Customers also enjoy drinks and snacks while being surrounded by playful pets, making the experience both interactive and memorable.
Recruiting Pets for Cafes: A New Business Trend
Recruitment ads for pets are now frequently posted on Chinese social media platforms like Xiaohongshu, often referred to as China’s Instagram. Owners are eager to send their well-behaved cats and dogs to work in these cafés, where they can earn snacks and provide entertainment for customers.
In a viral post on Xiaohongshu, a café owner shared the “salary” breakdown for one of their star employees – a cat named Datou (meaning “Big Head”). After working a few shifts, Datou received five cans of cat food as his reward.
Is This the Future of Pet Ownership in China?
With the number of pets in China expected to surpass the number of toddlers by the end of 2024, this trend of “working pets” could continue to grow. Café owners benefit from increased business, and pet owners get a way to entertain their pets while earning some savings in the form of treats and reduced household costs.
For many pet owners like Jane Xue, sending their pets to work at a café is a win-win situation. Not only do the pets stay active and socialized, but they also make their own “snack money” while bringing joy to customers.
