15+ Cat Sensations That Broke the Internet


Updated: September 9, 2023

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Undoubtedly, internet cat sensations have captivated the hearts and minds of millions worldwide. These feline stars, each with their distinctive traits, have amassed enormous online followings through platforms like social media, YouTube, and dedicated websites.

From Maru’s endearing box-diving escapades to the perpetually grumpy visage of the late Grumpy Cat, these online darlings never fail to provide boundless amusement and delight. They’ve played a pivotal role in shaping internet culture, serving as muses for countless memes and igniting viral phenomena that transcend age, language, and cultural boundaries.

Yet, their influence goes beyond mere cuteness and charm. Many of these renowned felines have emerged as formidable champions for animal welfare, advocating for pet adoption and offering support to special-needs animals. Their owners leverage their online presence to spotlight important causes, raise funds for charities, and encourage responsible pet ownership.

As a result, these internet cats not only bring joy to their online devotees but also effect tangible change in the lives of countless animals in need. They stand as a testament to the positive force that can emerge from the virtual realm, making a meaningful impact on the well-being of both humans and animals alike.

Grumpy Cat (Tardar Sauce)

Famed for her perpetually displeased countenance attributed to feline dwarfism and an underbite, Grumpy Cat skyrocketed to online stardom in 2012. She served as the muse for innumerable memes and even boasted her own line of merchandise and a feature film. Regrettably, Grumpy Cat departed in 2019.

https://youtu.be/INscMGmhmX4

Banye the “OMG Cat”

This Chinese British Shorthair feline gained notoriety for his perpetually startled visage, owing to a dark fur patch beneath his mouth that gives the appearance of a perpetual “OMG” expression.

https://youtu.be/3MBgmLwUBNo

Waffles the Cat

Waffles, the Scottish Fold cat with endearing wide eyes and an affectionate expression, rose to prominence through social media and even graced the screen in various commercials.

Nala Cat

Saved from a shelter in her early days, Nala is a delightful blend of Siamese and Tabby. With a substantial social media fanbase, she has even launched her own line of merchandise and actively contributes to the cause of animal adoption awareness.

Smoothie the Cat

Smoothie, a British Longhair feline, is renowned for her captivating emerald eyes and opulent coat. Bestowed with the title of “The World’s Most Photogenic Cat,” she commands a substantial following on social media platforms.

https://youtu.be/Qo5h-A3J4w8

Maru

Hailing from Japan, Maru is a male Scottish Fold cat who gained fame for his adoration of boxes and his playful capers. His YouTube channel, showcasing videos of him leaping into boxes and engaging in adorable antics, has amassed millions of views.

Keyboard Cat

An orange tabby named Fatso, Keyboard Cat achieved internet stardom in 2007 when a video of him “playing” a keyboard was uploaded to YouTube. Although the original Keyboard Cat, Fatso, passed away in 1987, the meme continues to thrive and be enjoyed by many.

Lil Bub

Born with a constellation of genetic anomalies, including feline dwarfism and an uncommon bone disorder, Lil Bub was a petite cat with a distinctive look, notably a tongue that protruded. Her rise to internet stardom occurred in 2011, and she became a fervent advocate for special-needs pets. Sadly, Lil Bub departed in 2019.

https://youtu.be/ekKUmaL2R2g

Pudge the Cat

Pudge, a female Exotic Shorthair cat, is recognized for her endearing mustache-like markings and inquisitive, expressive countenance. With a dedicated social media following, she even makes appearances at cat conventions.

Monty the Cat

Monty, born with a chromosomal abnormality that resulted in the absence of a nasal bridge, boasts a distinctive and affectionate appearance. His owners established a social media presence to advocate for cats with special needs and raise awareness about their unique qualities.

Venus the Two-Faced Cat

Venus rose to fame thanks to her remarkable appearance, characterized by a face perfectly divided with one side black and the other side orange, complemented by eyes of different colors. This distinctive look is attributed to genetic chimerism.

Colonel Meow

Colonel Meow, a blend of Himalayan and Persian breeds, earned recognition for his lengthy fur and perpetually scowling visage, achieving social media fame in 2012. He proudly held the Guinness World Record for the longest fur on a cat until his passing in 2014.

https://youtu.be/P8TpXTXk7gg

Hamilton the Hipster Cat

Hamilton, distinguished by a mustache-like white marking on his face, skyrocketed to internet stardom thanks to his one-of-a-kind and stylish appearance.

Shironeko

Also referred to as “Basket Cat” or “Zen Cat,” Shironeko, a Turkish Van breed, gained fame for his extraordinarily serene disposition. He is frequently spotted lounging in baskets or hammocks, often with various objects gracefully balanced on his head.

Cole and Marmalade

Cole, a sleek black cat, and Marmalade, a vibrant orange tabby, are two adopted feline stars celebrated for their endearing and amusing videos. Their owner leverages their social media presence to advocate for pet adoption and animal welfare.

Who are some famous internet cat sensations?

Some well-known internet cat sensations include Grumpy Cat, Maru, Nala Cat, Lil Bub, Pusheen, and Keyboard Cat, among others.

What made Grumpy Cat so famous?

Grumpy Cat, whose real name was Tardar Sauce, became famous for her unique facial expression that made her appear constantly grumpy. This distinctive look quickly captured the internet’s attention and led to her becoming a viral sensation.

What are Maru’s most popular videos?

Maru, a Scottish Fold cat from Japan, gained fame for his love of boxes. Some of his most popular videos feature him enthusiastically exploring, playing, and sometimes getting comically stuck in various boxes.

How did Nala Cat become an internet sensation?

Nala Cat, an adorable Siamese and Tabby mix, gained popularity on Instagram due to her striking blue eyes and sweet demeanor. Her cute photos and videos quickly garnered a large following.

What is Lil Bub known for?

Lil Bub, a cat with unique physical characteristics including an adorable, protruding tongue, became famous for her endearing appearance. She used her fame to advocate for special-needs animals and raise awareness about various animal welfare causes.

Who is Pusheen and what makes her special?

Pusheen is a chubby, gray tabby cat character known for her playful and mischievous antics. She gained popularity through webcomics and animated stickers, which feature her in various humorous situations.

What is the story behind Keyboard Cat?

Keyboard Cat, whose real name was Bento, became famous for a viral video where he appeared to play a keyboard. The video was a comedic meme that gained widespread popularity and became an internet classic.

Conclusion

The phenomenon of internet cat sensations has not only captured the hearts of millions but has also left an indelible mark on the digital landscape. These feline celebrities, with their unique charm and quirks, have garnered massive followings, transcending borders and languages through platforms like social media, YouTube, and dedicated websites.

Beyond the entertainment they provide, these cats have played a pivotal role in shaping internet culture, becoming the subjects of countless memes and inspiring viral content. Their influence extends far beyond the virtual realm, as many have become powerful advocates for animal welfare, pet adoption, and support for special-needs animals.

Owners of these famous cats have harnessed their online presence to raise awareness, fundraise for charities, and promote responsible pet ownership. In doing so, they have made a tangible, positive impact on the lives of countless animals in need.


Michael R

Michael R

I'm a publisher and editor at Cat Guide 101. I imagine that since you’re here, you likely own a cat — or two! — so helping you better understand them is my aim. I'd like to invite you to check out our about page to learn more about the Cat Guide 101 story.

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