Pet, pose, repeat? Japan takes a closer look at its animal cafes

TOKYO, Aug 28 — Japan is set to investigate animal cafes that have become increasingly popular, raising concerns about hygiene and animal welfare, authorities announced Thursday. Hundreds of these cafes exist across the country, where visitors can interact with a variety of animals such as cats, capybaras, micro-pigs, hedgehogs, owls, and snakes.

Campaigners allege that the animals are often housed in cramped spaces, and the high demand for these cafes encourages the capture and illegal trade of rare wildlife. To address these issues, the Environment Ministry will launch a fact-finding survey, commencing as early as next month. The survey will focus on basic details like the number of cafes and the types of animals kept, according to an Environment Ministry official who spoke to AFP.

The Ministry will scrutinize whether the establishments comply with existing laws, including verifying if animals have adequate space and the frequency of cleaning. "We may conduct on-site inspections if we identify facilities breaching the rules outlined by the animal welfare law," the official explained without revealing their name.

Animal welfare groups have long expressed apprehension over the cafes, which allow visitors to pet and play with multiple animals within a short period. A 2025 survey by World Wide Fund for Nature Japan revealed that some facilities house endangered species listed on the International Union for Conservation's Red List. These species also appear on the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, an agreement aimed at controlling international wildlife trade.

The Environment Ministry has hinted at conducting on-site inspections to verify compliance or non-compliance with animal welfare laws at these pet cafes. One shop reportedly had inadequate hygiene management, and microbiological testing identified pathogenic bacteria in multiple facilities, the report stated.

Laila Imai, campaign coordinator in Asia for animal welfare group Peta, noted that whether the animals are otters, capybaras, raccoons, owls, reptiles, or other wild species, these businesses prioritize customer entertainment over the animals' well-being. "Many are subjected to constant handling, noise, flashing cameras, and interactions with strangers throughout the day," Imai highlighted. "What may appear charming to visitors can be stressful and unnatural for the animals forced to live that way."

While some cafes function as adoption centers, aiding the placement of rescued cats and dogs, the overall welfare of the animals remains a significant concern as Japan probes the animal cafe industry.