Slow lorises are among the most trafficked primates due to their perceived cuteness, but their capture and trade causes immense suffering and population decline.
The removal of teeth for the pet trade is excruciatingly painful and performed without anesthesia, causing hemorrhage and infection. Without their teeth, lorises cannot groom, defend themselves, or eat properly. Slow lorises are primarily nocturnal and solitary, suffering intensely under the bright lights, noise, and handling typical of captive pet situations. Confiscated animals often cannot be rehabilitated due to habituation to humans. Their gummy smiles in viral videos are actually grimaces of fear. The trade is primarily online through social media platforms.