What’s the Purpose of a Tea Pet?

Discover the charm and meaning behind these small companions of Chinese tea culture.

If you’ve ever seen a traditional Chinese Gongfu tea ceremony, you might have noticed a small animal-shaped figurine sitting quietly on the tea tray. These little sculptures are called tea pets, and they’re not just for decoration. They carry deep cultural meaning, offer interaction during tea brewing, and even bring a bit of luck.

A tea pet is a small figurine, usually made from unglazed Yixing clay, ceramic, or sediment clay. During Gongfu tea preparation, the first steep of tea is often not drunk—instead, it’s poured over the tea pet. This ritual is known as “raising” or “nourishing” the tea pet. Over time, it absorbs the tea, gradually becoming glossier and more vibrant in color.

Many tea pets are based on symbols of fortune and protection. Popular choices include:

• Money Toad (Jin Chan) – A three-legged toad holding a coin in its mouth, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. When the coin spins, it suggests continuous cash flow.
• Pixiu – A mythical creature believed to attract wealth and ward off evil spirits. It’s said to only take in wealth, never releasing it.

These tea pets are more than cute—they’re a way of expressing good wishes for life and business.

Some tea pets are made with heat-sensitive materials, such as resin mixed with thermochromic pigments. When you pour hot tea over them, they change color—shifting from plain to vibrant hues. Once cooled, they return to their original shade. This playful element adds visual fun to tea time, especially for beginners or casual drinkers.

Tea pets can also be practical. Some are designed to help direct tea flow, while others are made with rounded, easy-to-clean forms that work well with frequent tea pouring. These pieces blend artistic expression with useful form, making them a seamless part of the tea setup.

Tea pets aren’t just about tradition—they bring joy, meaning, and mindfulness to your tea session. They reflect the values of patience, care, and intention in Chinese tea culture. Many tea lovers choose a tea pet that matches their personal wishes—whether it’s for luck, peace, or wealth.