PETA to Nintendo: Remove Mario Kart World Cow’s Nose Ring, “It’s-a Mean!”

PETA, the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, has formally requested that Nintendo remove a brass nose ring from the Cow character in Mario Kart World, the company’s latest entry in its globally celebrated racing franchise. In an open letter addressed to Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa, PETA praised the character’s popularity but asserted that the inclusion of the nose ring “represents pain, exploitation, and control” commonly associated with real-world farming practices .

According to PETA, “nose rings are used by the meat and dairy industries to exploit, control, and even drag animals to their deaths.” The letter further describes how these rings are “crudely stabbed through one of the most sensitive parts of an animal’s body,” often causing lasting pain and discomfort. PETA also highlighted that spiked nose rings are sometimes clipped onto calves to discourage nursing, causing distress to both mothers and their young .

The campaign gained traction online soon after PETA’s letter was published, with the hashtag #MooToo trending on social media platforms as supporters and critics debated the merits of the request . Some fans applauded PETA’s efforts to raise awareness about animal welfare, while others argued that the ring was simply an aesthetic choice or a nod to traditional depictions of cartoon cows.

Nintendo has not yet issued an official response to PETA’s request. The company is known for carefully curating its family-friendly image, and previous feedback from advocacy groups has sometimes resulted in design changes or public statements . As the debate continues, many observers are watching to see how the gaming giant will balance creative freedom with sensitivity to social issues.