An adorable trend is sweeping across China and winning hearts worldwide, as fans of the latest Disney animated venture, Zootopia 2, are taking their furry friends on a movie date. Videos of pet owners enjoying the much-awaited sequel with their furry babies have taken the internet by storm, garnering awe and praise from netizens.
Chinese fans watching Zootopia 2 in theaters with pets
It’s not every day that one gets to enjoy their favorite movie with their furry friend. Having said that, China, continuing its streak of being one step ahead, has rolled out the red carpet for pets in select cinemas.
Fulfilling the dream of many, theaters allowed dogs to join their owners for a screening of Zootopia 2. The pet-friendly screenings are greatly adding to the animated sequel’s buzz, bringing along a furry twist to the hype.
Videos circulating on social media show adorable paws tapping to the movie’s addictive soundtrack, pups snuggling into their seats, and owners holding them up with flashlights on like a concert crowd. The theaters have even considerately prepared pet-friendly amenities, including diapers, wipes, and cleaning pads at each seat. Moreover, owners too pitched in to do their part to keep things tidy post-movie.
Meanwhile, the viral clips are also garnering praise and hype from social media users. “China going in on furry was not on my bingo card”, one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “This is hilarious! too cute!” another concurred. Furthermore, a third user added, “Probably one of the reasons it made box office record there for the movie!”
Interestingly, pets joining movie dates isn’t a new trend in China. Previously, movie chains have hosted “pet-screenings,” where owners were required to present dog paperwork. Additionally, theaters did full cleaning and disinfection post-show. For pet parents, this trend isn’t just about having fun. It’s a way to share pop culture moments with their beloved fur babies.
Notably, Zootopia 2, released on November 26, 2025, has already shattered multiple records, including the highest global animated opening and the biggest animated sequel debut. The voice cast includes Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, Shakira, and Ke Huy Quan, among others.
