Hilarious "Tempura Shrimp Cat Toy" Trend: Hanging Fried Shrimp to Dry with Clothespins?

For cat owners, having a few toys to entertain their feline friends is a common practice. Toys like fishing rod-style wands and rolling balls can provide endless fun for cats at home. Recently, a user on the Japanese platform X shared an amusing sight: a "tempura shrimp" shaped object hanging from their laundry clip. This peculiar item caught the attention of many online, leaving them wondering what it could be.

Hanging outside against a backdrop of clear blue skies, the object presented an intriguing visual. However, the question remained—what was this item doing outside? Many users found it hilarious, pondering why a shrimp would be left out to dry. Some even speculated that it might be at risk of being taken by birds like crows, leading to a comical scenario where none would be left if they did.

もしかしたら鳥に狙われるかもしれないから室内干しにしたけど今度これ https://t.co/CtaM4vHgtD pic.twitter.com/Tk7iR39PRb

— 黒猫のこねろく (@nkknrk) July 4, 2024

It turns out that this item is actually a commercially available "shrimp cat toy" from Japan. Its plush design is specifically made to entice cats into play. The user had washed it and intended to air dry it outdoors but later heeded the advice of netizens to bring it inside to avoid any potential bird theft.

This "shrimp cat toy" is produced by the Japanese company COMET and can be found on platforms like Amazon or in local shops. The concept is similar to that of a yarn ball, designed to pique a cat's interest while resembling a shrimp. The playful design has garnered praise from many users, with several expressing a desire to acquire one for their own cats. It’s clear that Japanese manufacturers have a knack for creating engaging pet products, as even a shrimp can become an entertaining toy for cats.