"Cuticle Detective Inaba" is a comedic mystery manga series that blends supernatural elements with detective work and absurd humor. The narrative centers around Hiroshi Inaba, a former werewolf who now works as a private detective. Inaba possesses a unique ability: by consuming hair, he can temporarily gain the traits and memories of the person it belongs to. This ability becomes a key tool in solving cases, though it is often played for comedic effect due to its bizarre nature.

The story unfolds in a world where humans and anthropomorphic animals coexist, with Inaba frequently encountering a mix of both in his investigations. His primary adversary is Don Valentino, a goat-like crime boss with a penchant for elaborate schemes and a flair for the dramatic. Don Valentino is often accompanied by his loyal henchman, Kei, a human with a tragic past and a deep sense of loyalty to his boss. The dynamic between Inaba and Don Valentino is a central focus, with their interactions oscillating between intense confrontations and absurd, slapstick humor.

Inaba’s detective agency is staffed by a quirky cast of characters, including Yuuta, a young boy with a mysterious connection to Inaba, and Ogino, a police officer who frequently collaborates with Inaba despite their contrasting personalities. The series balances episodic cases with an overarching plot involving Don Valentino’s criminal activities and Inaba’s efforts to thwart them. The cases often involve bizarre and supernatural elements, ranging from stolen artifacts to encounters with mythical creatures, all tied together by Inaba’s unconventional methods and sharp wit.

The humor in "Cuticle Detective Inaba" is a defining feature, with the series frequently breaking the fourth wall and embracing absurdity. Despite its comedic tone, the manga occasionally delves into darker themes, particularly through the backstories of characters like Kei and Yuuta, adding depth to the otherwise lighthearted narrative. The interplay between the eccentric cast, the supernatural detective work, and the ongoing rivalry between Inaba and Don Valentino creates a unique blend of mystery, action, and comedy that drives the series forward.