# Pierced Kittens Woman Sells Gothic Cats on eBay By Cecilia Biemann | Published 2008-12-19 | Lifestyle Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gothic-kittens-pierced-cats-sold-on-ebay References: [news.yahoo](http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20081218/ap_on_fe_st/odd_pierced_kittens) Three kittens with piercings in their ears, neck and tail have been removed from a US home after humane officers were tipped off that they were being sold on eBay. The Pennsylvania woman--who has a pet grooming business in the basement of her home--was marketing the animals as ‘Gothic kittens’ and is likely to be charged with a criminal offense over the matter. There was also a dog found inside the home with pierced ears. Officer Carol Morrison from the Humane Society said, “It’s unbelievable anybody would do this to kittens.” ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 5.7/10 - Popularity: 72% | Activity: 92% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 30% men, 70% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) > [Pets](https://www.trendhunter.com/pets) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Pet Modification:** The trend of modifying pets to appeal to niche markets, such as piercings on cats and dogs, offers an opportunity for innovative and ethical businesses that cater to pet enthusiasts. - **Alternative Pet Grooming:** The backlash against traditional pet grooming methods in favor of more distinctive styles, such as a 'gothic' aesthetic, has created an opening for edgy and artistic pet grooming businesses. - **Anti-cruelty Activism:** The increasing awareness and scrutiny of animal cruelty has led to a growing movement of activists who are vigilant against any harm or mistreatment to animals, creating opportunities for organizations and companies that champion animal welfare. ### Who This Affects Most - **Pet Grooming:** Amid growing demand for non-traditional pet grooming styles, there is an opportunity for pet grooming businesses to tap into under-served pet owners looking for unique, high-quality services. - **Pet Fashion and Accessories:** The trend of modifying pets to appeal to niche markets, such as 'gothic' aesthetics, presents an opening for innovative and ethical pet fashion companies that offer stylish and personalized accessories. - **Animal Welfare Advocacy:** As animal cruelty continues to spark public outrage, there is a need for organizations and non-profits that advocate for animal welfare and promote policies to protect animals from abuse and harm. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Eclectic Cat-Specific Stores](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/triple-t-studios.md) - [Glam Pet Adoption Pop-Ups](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/uber-showcats.md) - [Halloween-Themed Cat Goods](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/raw-emotions-2.md) - [Spooky Charming Pet Portraits](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/crown-paw.md) - [Band-Backed Non-Alcoholic Beers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kittiepig-non-alcoholic-beer.md) - [Pop Star-Themed Animals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/taylor-swiftthemed-cats.md) - [Spiked Gaming Headsets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kraken-kitty-v2.md) - [Luxe Cartoon Cat Jewelry](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lanvin-en-bleu.md) - [Expressive Piercing Campaigns](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pierced-by-claires.md)