The widely beloved Mofusand cat characters, created by illustrator Juno, are set to star in their own short anime adaptation, beginning January 7, 2026. The series will stream weekly on the QTORY YouTube channel and various other platforms, with the first episode, “Hungry Outburst,” already available for early streaming.
The announcement was made by QTORY Inc. on Monday, which also unveiled the anime’s key visual, cast, and staff. This adaptation brings the adorable and often whimsically costumed felines to life, much to the delight of their global fanbase.
What is Mofusand?
Mofusand is a collection of charming cat characters created by Japanese illustrator Junko Noji, known professionally as Juno. Debuting in 2017, these fluffy cats quickly gained popularity through social media with their endearing, often surreal illustrations. The name “Mofusand” itself is a playful combination of “mofu mofu,” a Japanese onomatopoeia for “soft and fluffy,” and “sand,” which might refer to their sandy-colored fur or be a cute, playful addition.
Unlike many character franchises, Mofusand doesn’t focus on a single named character or a detailed backstory. Instead, it features a diverse group of nameless cats, each distinguishable by their unique costumes and playful antics. These outfits range from sharks and other sea creatures to fruits, fried shrimp, and even collaborations with popular Sanrio characters like Kuromi and Cinnamoroll.
The Mofusand Anime: What to Expect
The upcoming short anime promises to deliver the same heartwarming and adorable essence that has made Mofusand a global sensation. Viewers can anticipate cozy, everyday adventures starring the iconic “Shark Meow” (a cat in a shark costume) and “Little Meow,” alongside their friends. The episodes are expected to feature simple, tender moments, such as enjoying a sunny day at the park, the gleam of the sea, warm sweet potatoes, and the first snow of winter.
Cast and Staff
The production team includes Hazumu Sakuta as director and Sei Yoshitsuki as scriptwriter, with animation produced by QTORY Inc. and Monster’s Egg. The voice cast bringing these silent, expressive felines to life includes notable talents:
- Shark Meow: Yurika Kubo
- Orca Meow: Satomi Akesaka
- Little Meow: Maria Sashide
- Strawberry Meow: Kaori Maeda
- Rabbit Meow: Yuko Goto
Mofusand’s Expanding Popularity
Since its inception, Mofusand has grown beyond illustrations to become a prominent part of Japanese kawaii culture. The characters can be found on a wide array of merchandise, including stationery, plush toys, keychains, bags, and lifestyle products. Mofusand has also been featured in themed cafes and special exhibitions across Japan, drawing crowds eager to interact with the whimsical cat world. Its collaborations, particularly with Sanrio, further highlight its widespread appeal.
The upcoming anime is poised to introduce Mofusand to an even broader audience, cementing its status as a beloved icon of cuteness and joy. Fans eager to dive into the fluffy world can mark their calendars for January 7, 2026, for weekly doses of adorable cat antics.
