The idea was inspired by the Chinese TV dating show “If You Are the One,” in which male participants introduce themselves in a video clip and female guests show their interest by turning on the light if they say “yes” or turning it off if they say “no.”
At a pet matchmaking event, a male cat who was described as “financially independent, with a car and a house” stood out as a desirable candidate looking for a partner.
The cat’s dating profile amusingly states, “Just turned 2 and successful in his career.”
The profile described the cat as “introverted, cold on the outside but warm on the inside, sexy and shy, with a quiet passion, strong physique and a fitness enthusiast.”
“Today I am publicly seeking a suitable companion in the feline world. I am looking to join hands with a gentle, adorable young cat to foster a thriving family together,” the statement said.
Four female cats were attracted to the profile and shared details about their family backgrounds, talents, and more.
This trend isn’t the only way China’s younger generations are creating entertainment for themselves while seeking out pet companions.
Many are also turning to second-hand websites such as Xianyu, which advertise “pet dating”.
Xianyu, owned by Alibaba which also owns the South China Morning Post, sees around three million people using its platform to find companion animals each year and has even set up a “pet matchmaking corner” to facilitate connections.
The ads on the site are often creative and entertaining, with owners highlighting the unique traits of their pets.
Some people highlight their pet’s personality, saying it’s “cute, playful and honest,” while others post pictures of purebreds, boasting about their pet’s “silky soft fur.”
The trend has sparked lively discussion on social media in mainland China.
“Has the pet brokerage market become so competitive that even male cats have to be successful and financially stable?” joked one online observer.
“Young people and cats, one of you has to date. Better to be single than a pet,” said another.
“It seems young people under pressure to get married are taking out their stress on their pets,” a third wrote.