I agree it is probably a hoax-but it is very well done. If an art project, hoax or whatever someone certainly invested a good deal of time-and money or so I would think, into the production. To each their own.
Art is meant to provoke feelings-thoughts-whether positive or negative and on that level, I would say it has succeded (got our attention and provoked us did it not?)
Our attitude toward the thing is subjective-totally a matter of opinion. But who would honestly want a pet that pretty much remains in a new born state-regardless of the ease of care? But then again-look at some of the toys on the market (especially those aimed at boys) Most of these toys are stupid-with all the entertainment and educational value of watching paint dry-many centered around violence or mindless activity.
But there it is-an opinion. Someone would buy one of these (think "pet rock" and "chia pets" people bought those, did they not?) as a gag gift (emphasis on "gag") or genuinely think they are "cute"-
Quite frankly if you want a "pet" that cannot really do anything except lay there-get a stuffed animal (and no I do not mean a real animal stuffed by a taxidermist)-at least it won't need feeding, feel pain or DIE.
If these things are real the animal rights activists will have a field day if they are brought to market...