Yes. In the Harry Potter series, there are many elements related to animals. For example, Harry's owl Hedwig, and the Animagus ability which allows wizards to transform into animals. So it can be considered part of animal fanfiction to some extent.
Sure. In this type of fanfiction, the basic idea is to re - imagine Harry Potter as a female of an animal species. It's a creative way to explore different characteristics and storylines. For example, if Harry was a female wolf, she might have a pack mentality and lead her friends in a different way than in the original story.
Sure. There are a lot of fanfictions in this area that avoid the inappropriate 'lemon' aspect. Writers may create stories where the female animal has special powers and teams up with Harry Potter to fight against the dark forces in the wizarding world. It gives a new perspective to the Harry Potter universe.
Umbridge could also be a main antagonist. She is known for her strict and often cruel rules. If she discovers Harry in his female animal form, she would likely try to use it as an excuse to further oppress him. She might see it as a sign of abnormal magic and use it to justify her actions against Harry and those she doesn't like in Hogwarts.
Hippogriffs are popular as well. Their majestic appearance and the fact that they require respect to interact with make for interesting stories. Fanfictions might explore a young wizard's journey to tame a hippogriff and the bond that forms between them. There could be a story where a hippogriff is wrongly accused of attacking a wizard, and the main character has to prove its innocence.
One possible plot could be that Harry is turned into an animal, like a stag, which is his Patronus. He then has to navigate the wizarding world in this new form. He might use his animal instincts to discover hidden secrets or evade his enemies. For example, he could sneak into places unnoticed as an animal, which he couldn't do as a human. He might also communicate with other magical animals in a way he never could before, and they could help him on his quests.
One common theme is self - discovery. Just like in the original Harry Potter series, characters often find out more about themselves through their interactions with their spirit animals. For example, they might learn about their hidden strengths or fears.
Hedwig is likely to be one of the main animal characters. She was Harry's owl and had a big role in the original series, so in the fanfiction she might have even more expanded storylines. Buckbeak the hippogriff could also be a main character. He was already quite important in the books and could have new adventures in the fanfiction.
If Harry turns into a female owl, it would be really cool. Owls are used for mail delivery in the wizarding world. As a female owl, Harry could learn about the inner workings of the owlery and how the owls communicate with each other. He might even be able to eavesdrop on important conversations while on his delivery routes and use that information to help the Order of the Phoenix.
One possible fanfiction could be where Harry Potter is a female fox, using her cunning to outwit Voldemort. Another might have her as a female eagle, symbolizing freedom and strength in the wizarding world.