Los Angeles, CA — Pop star Justin Bieber is under fire from PETA after purchasing two high-end Savannah kittens for a combined $35,000. The animal rights organization criticized the singer, 25, for opting for exotic breeder cats instead of adopting from a shelter.
The kittens, named Sushi and Tuna, are a hybrid of domestic cats and African Servals—a breed restricted or banned in several states due to their exotic lineage. Bieber acquired them from Illinois-based breeder Select Exotics, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
PETA’s Sharp Criticism
In a statement to PEOPLE, PETA Senior Vice President Lisa Lange condemned Bieber’s decision, urging him to promote pet adoption instead.
“Baby, baby, baby, nooooooo,” Lange said. “Justin Bieber could inspire his fans around the world to save a life by adopting a cat from a local animal shelter—rather than fueling the dangerous demand for hybrid cats, contributing to the animal overpopulation crisis.”
She added, “His stance so far is ‘I don’t care.’”
Bieber’s Unbothered Response
Despite the backlash, Bieber appeared unfazed. Shortly after PETA’s remarks, he promoted the Instagram account he created for the cats, @kittysushiandtuna, on his Instagram Stories—now boasting over 176,000 followers. He previously promised the account’s millionth follower free merch from his Drew House clothing line.
The singer also shared a photo of the kittens on his main Instagram, captioning it, “@kittysushiandtuna are my children.”
A representative for Bieber did not immediately respond to PEOPLE’s request for comment.
Meet Sushi and Tuna
Bieber introduced Sushi in late August, excitedly announcing the arrival on Instagram with playful nicknames like “Soosh Magooosh” and “Tuna.” His wife, Hailey Baldwin, 22, joined in, commenting affectionately on the post.
Weeks later, the couple welcomed a second kitten, Tuna. The felines have since become social media stars, with their account documenting their daily antics in the Bieber-Baldwin household.
The pair joins the couple’s growing pet family, which includes a puppy named Oscar, adopted in December.
Legal Restrictions on Savannah Cats
Due to their wild ancestry, Savannah cats face legal restrictions in multiple states, including New York, Texas, and Georgia. Some states, like California and New Jersey, permit ownership with certain regulations.
As the debate over exotic pet ownership continues, Bieber’s latest purchase has reignited discussions about celebrity influence on animal welfare trends.
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