Mooncakes for the dog? How China is reinventing its iconic festive snack
Mooncakes, a sweet staple for China’s annual Mid-Autumn Festival, are not just for people any more. Humans are pulling back, but dogs are digging in. So are cats. Pet mooncakes are popping up across China, from major retailers such as Sam’s Club to online stores and small bakeries. And many are quickly selling out. In the southwestern metropolis of Chengdu, a pack of pet mooncakes selling online…
Mooncakes, traditionally a Chinese delicacy enjoyed during the Mid-Autumn Festival, are now being repurposed for our furry companions. Dogs and cats in China are enjoying custom-made pet mooncakes, which are quickly selling out across the country. These pet-friendly treats come in various flavors, including duck with blueberry and salmon with egg yolk, and are available in both fresh and freeze-dried forms.
The trend has been fueled by a surge in pet ownership and a shift in consumer behavior towards healthier alternatives. In 2025, China had 126 million dogs and cats as pets, with owners spending a staggering 312.6 billion yuan on their animals, with projections to reach 405 billion yuan by 2028. This shift is also driven by a growing preference for wellness-focused products and a move away from indulgent luxury items.
Traditional mooncake sales have plummeted by over 45% in major retail outlets, while gift box sales have dropped by more than 49%. Businesses are becoming more cautious about discretionary spending, leading to a "consumption downgrade" in China.
Written by urgent.news from SCMP Business's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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