#TIE #thedarkmodernity

 So, maybe this explains what we are to Asians and first for the Rest of World:

 In China and broader Asia, cats hold a multifaceted status. As beloved companion animals, they have seen an explosive surge in popularity, officially surpassing dogs as the most common pet in several countries (including China). However, this modern popularity clashes with the lack of comprehensive animal welfare protections.

Modern Popularity & Ownership

Surpassing Dogs: In East Asia, cats are rapidly becoming the dominant pet. For example, cat ownership has outpaced dog ownership in Japan, Taiwan, and China.Cultural Shift: While canines were historically more favored for security, indoor-friendly cats are increasingly preferred by younger, urban populations living in high-density cities.

Historical & Cultural Significance

Ancient Origins: While early agricultural societies in China lived alongside native wild "leopard cats", modern domestic cats were introduced much later by Silk Road merchants from the Middle East.

Historical Reverence: During the Song and Tang dynasties, cats became popular muses in poetry and art. In ancient folk religion, they were even associated with agricultural fertility.

The Zodiac: Despite their deep integration into society, cats are notably absent from the Chinese Zodiac—a cultural quirk often attributed to a mythical race where the rat tricked the cat.

Legal Status & WelfareLack of Protections: Despite the booming pet culture, China lacks overarching, formal laws explicitly protecting companion animals like cats from abuse or regulating conditions for breeding and commercial trade.

Stray Populations: The absence of government-backed spay/neuter programs or shelter protections has resulted in millions of stray cats in China, leaving their care primarily to grassroots volunteer networks and charities.

Folklore & Symbolism

Japan’s Influence: When assessing the broader Asian view of cats, Japan is famous for the Maneki-Neko (the "beckoning cat"), a ubiquitous talisman of good luck and financial prosperity.

Bad Omens: In contrast to the luck and prosperity associated with cats in modern East Asian urban culture, some traditional folklore in various Asian regions occasionally associated domestic cats with supernatural mischief, secretive spirits, or bad luck.If you want to know more 

 

In perspective that here is us:

 

That is not tobacco. Only.
 

#natives

#cyberpunkcoltoure 

 

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