Pet lovers develop a passion for the exotic

Rapid expansion

China's pet market has expanded rapidly in recent years. Although cats and dogs still dominate, many people have started to choose ducks, rodents or domesticated animals as pets.

Their attitude toward pets has also shifted from seeing them as playthings to regarding them as family members or close friends.

"Whether at home or in stores, these little animals are there for companionship and they bring warmth to our hearts. They care and understand just like family members. They give us much more than the love we give to them," Xiao said.

Beijing resident Zhao Meng (no relation to Takara's founder) is an animal enthusiast. Even though she has three rabbits and a guinea pig at home, she still frequents places like Takara and Lucky Ducky just to play with the animals.

The 27-year-old graphic designer also draws pictures to record her daily life with her "children".

Her latest rabbit was bought from Lucky Ducky after she played with it in the store.

"I never see them as animals or pets per se. They all have their own temperaments and personalities. They understand what you are saying. Although they can't speak, you can really communicate with them and they will give you a reaction," she said.

Takara founder Zhao Meng said one of his initial intentions in opening the store was to help people learn more about animals before they buy them and take them home, because many people buy pets on impulse.

"They say 'Oh, this pet is so cute' and then buy it without knowing its habits or personality or if they are allergic to it. So I opened my store to let customers experience the animals first. They can play with all the animals here to see if there's any problem. If it is okay, they can consider purchasing one," he said.

He added that Takara represents the fourth generation of pet shops. The first three generations are: pet shops that only sell pets and related products and services; cat-or dog-themed cafes and restaurants, with food and drink being the main service; and stores with one species intended merely for cosseting.

"We are trying to refine pet sales and pet experiences to help customers better understand what they like and turn impulse buying into rational consumption," he said.

"I think pets are the only family members you pay to have, so I hope people will be more cautious in the future."