The number of marriages in China has been falling steadily for several years, leading the government to fear a demographic crisis. Although the number of marriages has recently started to rise again, China's young people are still generally reluctant to put a ring on their finger. Taking anthropomorphism to new levels, China's "pet parents" are now taking part in matchmaking events that cater to their four-legged friends, reports the South China Morning Post. In one of them, an owner describes their cat as "having a car, a house and financial independence," according to the South China Morning Post. Some go even further, taking their pets for a walk in a stroller, just as they would with a "real" child.

Source: Forbes June 20, 2024 14:25 UTC