How an Entrepreneur Created Purring Plushies to Help Anxious Millennials and Gen Zers

Meet Katharine Burke, the innovative founder of Purryfuls who left her tech job to pursue her passion for creating purring plushies.

The Birth of Purryfuls

After experiencing burnout in the tech industry, Katharine Burke found solace in her cat, Wren, who inspired her to develop a unique solution for stress relief. Unable to find a purring hot water bottle online, Burke decided to take matters into her own hands and create Purryfuls.

The Rising Popularity of Plushies

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in plushie sales among adults. According to Brian Benway, a senior tech and gaming analyst at Mintel, plushies are currently in high demand, with sales on the rise. This trend is attributed to adults seeking comfort in childhood nostalgia and a more accepting environment for alternative interests.

The Healing Power of Purring

Research suggests that the act of purring is not only beneficial for cats but also for humans. Studies have shown that the vibrations produced by a cat's purr can promote self-healing and have a calming effect on individuals. This healing aspect of purring aligns with Purryfuls' mission to provide a moment of calm and joy in the midst of daily stressors.

A Comforting Companion

Purryfuls offers various settings, including a sleep mode, where the plushie purrs quietly for 10 minutes to aid in relaxation and promote sleep. While the plushies are not meant to replace real pets, they serve as a comforting companion during times of need.

Addressing Anxiety in Millennials and Gen Zers

As millennials and Gen Zers are often described as anxious generations, Katharine Burke aims to provide a source of comfort and support through Purryfuls. By acknowledging the unique challenges faced by these groups, Burke hopes to offer a simple yet effective solution for moments of stress and uncertainty.

By combining the therapeutic benefits of purring with the nostalgic appeal of plushies, Purryfuls has carved a niche in the market for those seeking solace and relaxation in a fast-paced world.

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By: ldodgson@businessinsider.com (Lindsay Dodgson)
Title: How an Entrepreneur Created Purring Plushies to Help Anxious Millennials and Gen Zers
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/plushies-purring-entrepreneur-purryfuls-adult-toys-anxious-millennials-2025-3
Published Date: Sun, 09 Mar 2025 09:11:01 +0000