PETA UK has published a guide on how to distinguish between faux fur and real animal fur, as the resemblance between the two continues to improve. They suggest checking the tips of individual hairs for a natural taper in real fur, as opposed to blunt or sheared ends in faux fur. Additionally, examining the backing of the fur item can reveal whether it is made from animal skin or synthetic materials.

The organization also recommends testing the fur with a pin to see if it easily penetrates real skin but not artificial fabric. Burning the fur can also help determine its authenticity, as animal fur will smell like burning hair while synthetic fibers will melt and smell like burning plastic. PETA UK emphasizes the importance of looking beyond price tags, as low-quality fur can be cheap and some faux fur items can be expensive. The fashion industry is increasingly moving towards cruelty-free alternatives, with luxury brands like Rick Owens banning animal-derived fur in their clothing, and major publications like Vogue and Harper's Bazaar choosing not to promote fur.