Plush, which is a soft and luxurious fabric often used for stuffed animals and upholstery, is not considered vegan. The reason for this is that plush is typically made from animal fibers, specifically the hair or fur of animals such as cows, sheep, alpacas, goats, ducks, and even foxes.
Cows are commonly exploited for their skins, which are used to make leather products. However, their hair can also be used to create plush fabric. Similarly, sheep and alpacas are raised for their wool, but their hair can also be used in plush production.
Goats are another animal that are often used for their hair, as their long and soft fibers are desirable for plush fabric. Ducks, on the other hand, are exploited for their feathers, which can be incorporated into plush for added texture and visual appeal.
Even foxes, known for their luxurious fur, can be victims of the plush industry. Their fur is sometimes used to create plush fabric, particularly for high-end and luxury products.
It is important to note that using animal fibers for plush production involves the exploitation and harm of animals. These animals may be subjected to inhumane practices such as factory farming, unethical shearing or plucking techniques, and even fur farming in the case of foxes. These practices go against the principles of veganism, which seeks to avoid the use of animal products for ethical reasons.
Vegans, therefore, choose to avoid plush made from animal fibers and instead opt for alternative materials that are cruelty-free and more aligned with their ethical beliefs. There are several synthetic and plant-based alternatives available in the market, such as polyester, cotton, bamboo, and hemp, which can be used to create plush-like fabrics without the need for animal exploitation.
Plush is not considered vegan because it is commonly made from animal fibers obtained through the exploitation of animals such as cows, sheep, alpacas, goats, ducks, and foxes. Vegans choose to avoid plush made from animal fibers and instead opt for cruelty-free alternatives that align with their ethical principles.