Captive Animals

Welfare of Captive Slow Lorises

Slow lorises are trafficked extensively for the exotic pet trade; their welfare in captivity is severely compromised and their tickling videos represent a welfare crisis misrepresented as entertainment.

Key Facts

Slow lorises are venomous primates — their teeth are cut before sale, causing pain and infection
Tickling videos show stress responses misinterpreted as enjoyment
All eight slow loris species are protected by CITES Appendix I
Trafficking has increased driven by social media viral video demand
Slow lorises in captivity have very short life expectancies from welfare neglect

Welfare Considerations

Slow loris welfare is directly harmed by social media consumption of 'cute' videos. The viral appeal of tickling videos has driven a trafficking surge causing suffering through capture, teeth mutilation, and captive neglect. Not sharing these videos is a direct welfare intervention.

What You Can Do

Never share slow loris tickling videos — it drives demand and trafficking
Report slow loris videos to social media platforms for wildlife trafficking violations
Donate to International Animal Rescue IAR slow loris rehabilitation programs
Advocate for stronger enforcement against slow loris trafficking in range countries