June 18th National Internet Cat Day. Of course, one might say that every day is Internet Cat Day. Fluffy certainly has staked her claim on the internet. In fact, our feline overlords have taken over roughly 90 purrcent of the world wide web. Fluffy has even been described by ThoughtCatalog as the internet’s unofficial mascot. A local vet takes a closer look at this pawesome topic below.
Fluffy’s Rise To Stardom
It’s hard to believe, but the internet really only entered our day-to-day lives a few decades ago. Fluffy pounced her way to internet stardom as soon as the world logged on, which, back in those days, meant dial up. Her first claim to fame may very well be the still-hilarious I Can Haz Cheezburger site, which started out with people simply adding funny captioned ‘translations’ to silly cat photos. This ended up launching endless kitty memes, known collectively as LOLcat memes, and definitely earned their fair share of early ROFL reactions.
Famous Webcats
We really can’t celebrate Internet Cat Day without honoring some of the most beloved online celebrekitties. First, we have Lil Bub, who was born with a deformity that left her unable to put her tongue in her mouth. This made for some cute photos, but more importantly, Lil Bub’s fame led to further understanding of her condition. A crowdfunded genome-study project successfully identified the issue as a mutation in RANK/TNFRSF11A.
Next, we have Grump Cat, the adorably grouchy-looking cat that was unimpressed by, well, everything. Although Grump Cat—whose real name was Tardar Sauce—crossed over the Rainbow Bridge a few years ago, the furry curmudgeon is still keeping us smiling. There are plenty of hilarious Grump Cat memes still circulating. Finally, we can’t forget Colonel Meow, a super fluffy feline that, to be honest, looked both adorable and rather imposing.
A Purrfect Frenzy
Fluffy’s online presence has certainly drawn attention. The phenomenon has sparked several articles, books, and even a museum exhibit, How Cats Took Over The Internet, which opened at the Museum of the Moving Image in 2015. There have even been studies done on why we’re so obsessed with kitty web content. The research proved some interesting points. As it turns out, watching the antics of our feline pals online is good for our mental health. Go ahead and binge some cute cat videos … or upload one yourself. Who knows? Your furry friend may be the next famous internet celebrekitty!
Our Advice on Internet Cat Day in 2024
What is National Internet Cat Day, and when is it celebrated?
National Internet Cat Day, celebrated on June 18th, is a whimsical holiday dedicated to honoring the immense popularity of cats on the internet. It’s a day when cat lovers and internet users celebrate the joy and entertainment these feline friends bring to the digital world. From viral videos to memes, cats have become an integral part of internet culture, often referred to as its unofficial mascots. This day is not just about sharing cute cat content but also appreciating the bond between humans and their feline companions, both online and off.
Who are some of the most famous internet cats, and what are their unique stories?
Some of the most famous internet cats include Lil Bub, Grumpy Cat, and Colonel Meow. Lil Bub, known for her unique appearance due to a genetic mutation, became a symbol of special needs pets and even contributed to scientific research. Grumpy Cat, or Tardar Sauce, became famous for her perpetually grumpy expression, charming millions and becoming a meme sensation. With his impressively long fur and stern look, Colonel Meow also gained a massive following. Each of these cats brought joy to people worldwide and raised awareness about different feline health issues and the diversity among cats.
What impact has the online popularity of cats had on culture and mental health?
The online popularity of cats has significantly impacted culture and mental health. Culturally, cats have become internet icons, inspiring a wealth of creative content, from memes to viral videos, fostering a shared sense of humor and community among internet users. Regarding mental health, studies have shown that watching cat videos can boost viewers’ energy and positive emotions while decreasing negative feelings. Engaging with cats online frequently serves as a source of stress reduction and mood improvement, transforming these furry companions from mere internet sensations into supportive partners in fostering mental health.
What have studies shown about the effects of watching cat videos online?
Studies have revealed that watching cat videos on the internet can positively impact viewers’ mental health. Engaging with these videos often leads to increased feelings of happiness and a reduction in anxiety and sadness. This phenomenon is attributed to the release of feel-good chemicals in the brain, like dopamine and serotonin, which occur when viewing enjoyable content. Additionally, these videos provide a form of escapism and relaxation, offering a break from daily stressors. The popularity of cat videos underscores their role not just in entertainment but also in enhancing psychological well-being.
Who can be contacted for cat health or care questions in Rialto, CA?
In Rialto, CA, the best resource for inquiries about cat health or care is a local veterinarian. Veterinary professionals have the knowledge and expertise to address various feline health and wellness issues. Rialto has several animal clinics and hospitals where experienced veterinarians and their teams can provide comprehensive care, from routine check-ups to more specialized treatments. Contacting these local veterinary services is advisable for personalized advice and care for your cat. They are committed to ensuring the health and happiness of your feline companion.
Do you have questions about your cat’s health or care? Contact us, your local animal clinic in Rialto, CA today!
