Frequently Asked Questions
Here are hopefully some answers to questions you may have about Furry fandom.
What is a furry?
Furry is a synonym for an anthropomorphized animal character. In other words, an animal character given human-like attributes, such as sapience and often a humanoid form. A creature does not need to have fur to be a furry. Other terms sometimes interchangeable with furry are "zoomorph", "morph", "anthropomorph" or "funny animal."
Some examples of furries would be cartoon animals featured in animation, such as Bugs Bunny, Scooby Doo, or Donald Duck. Some may also appear as mascots or advertising characters, like McGruff the Crime Dog or the Exxon Tiger. On the other end of the spectrum, furries can be talking animals featured in fairy tales, such as Aesop's Fables or more modern literature, such as Watership Down.
Also, Furry fans themselves can be referred to as furries.
What does "anthropomorphic" mean?
Anthropomorphic means giving human qualities or characteristics to animals or objects. Anthropomorphic characters do things that humans usually do—walk on two legs, wear clothing, drive a car, and so on.
What is Furry fandom?
The standard definition of Furry fandom is the appreciation, promotion, and production of stories and artwork which features anthropomorphic animals, and the exploration, interpretation and examination of humanity and human values through anthropomorphic expression. This can include animated cartoons, comic books and strips, stories, artwork, costumes, and stuffed animals.
What is a fursuit?
A fursuit is a full-body animal mascot costume worn by a Furry fan.
Why do Furry fans wear fursuits?
It's fun! Fursuits can be quite elaborate (and expensive—typically they can cost $2,500 or more) and are usually shown off at convention masquerades. Some Furry fans also wear their fursuits to parades or for charity events.
Do all Furry fans dress up in fursuits?
No. Though they are the most noticable segment of the fandom, it should be noted only about 20% of Furry fans have fursuits. There are also "partial" fursuits, which consist of the fursuit head, arms, and sometimes feet. Some fans just wear the clip-on ears and tails.
Where can I get a fursuit?
Some Furry fans make their own fursuits, while others have them commissioned.
What is a Furry convention like?
A Furry convention is similar to a Science Fiction or Anime convention, except that it focuses on anthropomorphic animals. Fans come to Furry conventions to buy and sell artwork, attend workshops, show off costumes, or just socialize. The largest Furry convention in the world is Midwest FurFest, with more than 10,000 attendees.