Refer China: Live Animals in Claw Machine at Shanghai Mall Sparks Outrage

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Live Animals in Claw Machine at Shanghai Mall Sparks Outrage

Public outrage erupted recently after a claw machine featuring live animals was discovered in a shopping mall in Pudong New Area, Shanghai. Located inside a Tom's World amusement center, the modified machines displayed rabbits, hamsters, and dinosaur fish as prizes, drawing widespread concern over animal welfare.

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Instead of the typical plush toys, these machines had been modified to house live animals—goldfish swimming in water tanks, hamsters spinning in cages, and rabbits enclosed within mini fences.

According to visitors, the claw mechanisms had been replaced or adapted: one machine used a slotted spoon to scoop fish, while others required players to complete mini-games like aligning dice or using hooks to win a chance to take home the animal.

On January 3, mall management confirmed the removal of the three controversial machines following public backlash. The animals have since been relocated to an internal area of the venue under staff supervision.

Previously, Mr. Qiao, a representative from Shanghai Tom's World, claimed that both the machines and the use of live animals were compliant with regulations. "We're considering removing the animals from the machines and displaying them separately," he said, adding that all animals were sourced from local pet markets after inspection.

Reporters visiting the chain's Hongqiao store observed goldfish, turtles, quail, and other small animals inside the transparent cabinets. The setups were equipped with pumps and decor, and each machine featured clear divisions between the animals' enclosure and the game controls.

While some visitors found the novelty amusing, many expressed concern. Two high school students who won a rabbit said they found the game fun but felt sorry for the animals due to the loud music and unknown health conditions. "We wouldn't play it again," they admitted.

Several parents criticized the machines as inappropriate. "Raising a pet requires knowledge and responsibility," said one, "not grabbing one on impulse from a loud arcade."

However, others defended the practice, pointing out that the animals weren't being physically grabbed. "They're just prizes—like at a fair," one visitor remarked.

On January 4, local regulators from the Changning District Market Supervision Bureau announced an investigation. Under China's Animal Epidemic Prevention Law, animals used for commercial purposes must carry quarantine documentation. Officials are now checking whether the animals in these machines meet those requirements.

Source: 上观新闻, 南昌晚报