Chainsmoker Cat faces a streaming ban in Asia over tobacco promotion, though it continues on Netflix.
After seven episodes, the distinctive adult anime Chainsmoker Cat has been removed from Medialink Entertainment’s Ani-One Asia streaming service in several Asian regions. This action follows a letter from Hong Kong’s Department of Health, citing violations of the region’s Smoking (Public Health) Ordinance, specifically concerning the promotion of tobacco products rather than its mature content.
The core of the controversy stems from the anime’s protagonist, Yani Neko, who is frequently depicted smoking a real Japanese cigarette brand. This detail, highlighted by the head of Taiwan’s Health Promotion Administration’s Tobacco Control Division, suggests the ban is a direct response to perceived tobacco marketing, distinguishing it from concerns over the show's dark comedy or adult themes.
Despite the removal from Ani-One Asia, Chainsmoker Cat is set to return from its brief hiatus next week, with new episodes continuing to stream weekly on Netflix. The global streaming giant has featured an uncensored version of the anime since its debut and will maintain this approach, offering an uninterrupted viewing experience for its audience.
The series, known for its bizarre premise of a chain-smoking cat girl living in an unhygienic state, has garnered a vocal fandom. Interestingly, the anime has been perceived by many viewers as a cautionary tale, with Yani Neko’s habits encouraging better choices rather than promoting smoking, adding another layer to its unexpected journey.
