Shocking Truth: Six 'Kids' in One Beijing Home Could Be the Future of China's Family Planning

Beijing/Hong Kong (CNN) — Married for seven years, Hansen and his wife Momo care for six little ones at their apartment in downtown Beijing. However, these are no ordinary children - they are six furry family members that have taken over the couple's lives in a most unexpected way.

This story is not an anomaly but a growing trend in China. The country is witnessing a rise in pet ownership as the younger generation prioritizes pet parenting over human parenthood. According to a recent report, China could soon have more pets than toddlers, with already over 53 million pets in the country, excluding fish.

This trend presents a unique challenge for the Chinese government, which is desperately trying to boost its declining birth rates and tackle the challenges of an aging population. As Chinese millennials prioritize their pets over starting families, concerns are being raised about the long-term implications of this societal shift.

As Hansen and Momo navigate the challenges of caring for their six pets, they reveal the motivations behind their decision to prioritize their pets over human children. "We just feel that having pets can bring so much joy and happiness into our lives," they explain. "However, starting a family is a huge responsibility, and with the rising costs of living, education, and housing in cities like Beijing, we feel that we can't provide the life we want for our children at this moment."

The trend is also driven by wider social factors, including the reluctance of young couples to give up their independence and careers. With many women choosing to pursue higher education and careers, the idea of starting a family is no longer seen as the sole defining characteristic of womanhood.

Moreover, the growing pet industry is catering to the increasing demand for high-quality pet products and services. Pet-related businesses, such as dog cafes, pet grooming salons, and even pet-friendly travel agencies, are springing up across the country, providing employment opportunities and driving economic growth.

However, the increasing number of pets in China comes with its challenges, particularly for urban planning and waste management. Many city residents complain about the increasing noise and disruption caused by barking dogs and the owners who fail to clean up after them.

The Chinese government is aware of the changing demographics and is taking steps to boost birth rates. In 2021, the authorities announced plans to allow couples to have up to three children, up from the previous limit of two. However, experts say that this may not be enough to reverse the decline in birth rates and that more creative solutions are needed to tackle the challenges posed by the growing trend of pet ownership.

As for Hansen and Momo, they remain committed to caring for their six pets, but also acknowledge that their decision may not be suitable for everyone. "We just want to spread the message that pets can bring so much happiness into people's lives," they say. "However, starting a family is a personal choice, and everyone should make the decision that is right for them."

As the Chinese government grapples with the complexities of its changing population, one thing is certain: the rise of pet ownership in China is a phenomenon that will only continue to grow in the coming years.