For those who lack the time or energy to care for a traditional pet like a dog or cat, China’s Gen-Z is discovering what is also a beloved Western throwback from the 70s: pet rocks. Priced at around 30 yuan (US$4), these smooth, palm-sized pebbles come adorned with hand-drawn eyes, giving them a whimsical, lifelike charm.
Far from being just an inanimate object, pet rocks are treated with extraordinary care. Their devoted owners dress them in miniature outfits, craft tiny beds for them, and even take them to restaurants and hotels – places where live pets might face restrictions. Some owners even simulate parental care, bathing their rocks and engaging in playful “conversations” with them.
For many young people, the appeal of pet rocks lies in their simplicity. Owning a dog or cat can be expensive, time-consuming and emotionally taxing – particularly for those who fear the heartbreak of losing a beloved animal. Pet rocks, by contrast, offer companionship without the demands of traditional pet care.
The trend has taken off on social media platforms. On Douyin, the hashtag “Raise a Stone” has garnered 23.6 million views, while a post titled “Pet Rock Training Manual” has received over 40,000 likes on China’s Instagram-like app Xiaohongshu.
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