Internet divided over viral video of girl in animal costume

In today's world, people often experiment with their appearance. Some are content with unconventional hair colors, tattoos, or piercings. Others decide to go a step further. There is a group of people who try to resemble animals.

Those who identify with the furry movement wear special costumes called fursuits. When they wear them, they represent their animal characters (real or fantastical—from dogs to dragons). They also participate in special furry conventions. This activity is not always met with a positive reception from society.

The internet erupted after the publication of a particular recording. The video shows two girls walking in a park. One is dressed in an animal costume—most likely a cat. Her outfit includes fluffy boots, a tail, gloves, a headband with ears, and a mask. Additionally, the child crawls on all fours and is led by her friend on a leash.

Later in the video, a group of slightly older girls can be seen seemingly mocking the younger children's play. After passing the older girls, the furry enthusiast gets up from her knees and starts walking on two legs. Seeing people in unconventional outfits or with unusual interests still shocks or is a source of ridicule.

A heated discussion ensued under the posted video. Many internet users defended the girls. "Let the first person who never pretended to be an animal as a child cast the first stone." "A child playing outside without a phone? Truly shocking." "How can you mock children, you must be like 13 yourself." "Kids are playing, so what? What's the big deal?"

Unfortunately, there were also critical comments: "In the past, they used to lock such people up, and now?" "Next to people like that, I am exceptionally normal." "Terrifying." "This is what happens when you say everything is okay as long as it doesn't harm others."