Fashion / news
Chinese Youth Adopt Mango Seeds as Low-Maintenance Pets
A growing online community in China is treating mango seeds as pets, grooming and dressing the pits as alternatives to traditional animals.
A new trend has emerged among Chinese youth, who are adopting mango seeds as pets. The practice involves carefully removing the flesh from the pit, soaking it in water, and grooming the resulting fibers to resemble fur. Some enthusiasts even use conditioner before sun-drying the seed for a smoother finish.
The trend has gained traction on social media, where owners share tips on raising these unconventional pets. Choosing the right mango variety is key: African mangoes are preferred because their larger pits produce thicker "fur." However, this claim is based on community wisdom rather than verified fact.
Owners have been decorating their mango pets, giving them new identities as golden retrievers, cats, birds, or other animals. The process requires patience and care, but offers a low-commitment alternative to real pets.
Notably, the trend is not recommended in southern regions like Guangdong and Guangxi, where the humid climate can cause mold to develop on the seeds. Despite this, the movement continues to grow, with more people sharing their creations online.