These holiday decorations, often feline-shaped, are created using a manufacturing process where heated plastic is inflated inside a mold. The resulting lightweight, hollow form takes on the mold’s shape. A common example is a black figure with arched back and glowing eyes, frequently placed on porches or lawns during the autumnal season.
Their prevalence stems from their affordability, durability, and ease of use. They are lightweight, making them simple to move and store, and the plastic construction withstands various weather conditions. Historically, these decorations gained popularity in the mid-20th century as plastic manufacturing became more widespread, offering a cost-effective alternative to more elaborate decorations.