Most Popular Cats on the Internet: 11 Viral Felines to Follow

The internet has always been a playground for cat lovers, but certain felines have risen to superstardom, amassing millions of followers, spawning memes, and even influencing pop culture. These viral sensations, from grumpy expressions to box-jumping antics, showcase the irresistible charm of cats online. This article celebrates the **most popular cats on the internet**, detailing their origins, unique traits, and enduring legacies.

Why Cats Rule the Internet

Cats have dominated online spaces since the early days of YouTube and social media. Their quirky behaviors, photogenic faces, and ability to evoke laughter or awe make them perfect for viral content. Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Reddit propelled these cats to fame, turning ordinary pets into global icons. Studies show cat videos garner billions of views annually, highlighting their universal appeal.

Many of these cats overcome physical challenges or unique appearances, inspiring fans while raising awareness for animal welfare. Others simply entertain with hilarious stunts. Regardless, they’ve built empires of merchandise, books, and charity work.

Grumpy Cat (Tardar Sauce)

**Grumpy Cat**, real name Tardar Sauce, exploded onto the scene in 2013 when her owner’s sister posted a photo on Reddit. Her perpetually sour expression, caused by feline dwarfism and an underbite, captured the internet’s heart. The image went viral, leading to millions of followers on Instagram and appearances on TV shows like Good Morning America.

Despite her grumpy facade, Tardar Sauce was affectionate at home. She starred in commercials, a Lifetime movie, and inspired countless memes. Tragically, she passed away in 2019 from urinary tract issues, but her legacy lives on through books and fan art. Grumpy Cat proved that imperfection can be endearing.

Lil Bub

**Lil Bub**, the perma-kitten, was born with genetic mutations causing her tongue to stick out permanently and a lack of teeth. Discovered in 2011 in Indiana, her wide-eyed innocence quickly amassed a huge following. Owner Mike Bridavsky shared her adventures on Tumblr and Instagram, where she gained over 2 million fans.

Bub’s fame funded animal shelters and special needs pets. She attended red carpets, met celebrities, and even had a documentary, Lil Bub & Friendz. Bub passed in 2019, but her spirit promotes kindness toward unique animals.

Colonel Meow

**Colonel Meow**, a Himalayan-Persian mix, held the Guinness World Record for longest cat fur at 7.5 inches. Adopted in 2011, his stern, fluffy face made him an Instagram star with judgmental stares that rivaled Grumpy Cat. He advocated for animal adoption and had over 200,000 followers.

Known for his “world domination” persona, Colonel Meow featured in calendars and books. He passed in 2014 at age 2 from heart failure, but his record-breaking fur and sassy vibe endure.

Maru the Box Cat

**Maru**, a Scottish Fold from Japan, is the undisputed master of boxes. Since 2007, his YouTube channel has over 400 million views, featuring him diving headfirst into containers of all sizes. His owner posts videos showing Maru’s fearless leaps and puzzled recoveries.

Maru’s calm demeanor and love for confined spaces resonate globally. He’s authored books, starred in ads, and symbolizes playful cat energy. At 17 years old, he remains active, delighting fans worldwide.

Hamilton the Hipster Cat

**Hamilton the Hipster Cat** rocks a natural mustache and ironic expressions that scream cool. Adopted in 2010, his Instagram exploded with photos of him in sunglasses and scarves, embodying Brooklyn hipster vibes. With millions of likes, Hamilton sells merchandise and calendars.

His human-like poses poke fun at trends, making him a meme favorite. Hamilton proves style transcends species.

Keyboard Cat (Fatso)

**Keyboard Cat**, or Fatso, went viral in 2007 with a video of him “playing” a keyboard to an upbeat tune. The clip, originally from 1984, became a remix staple for fail videos. It spawned endless parodies and entered internet hall of fame.

Owner Charlie Schmidt shared Fatso’s legacy post-1987 passing, cementing his role as the original musical cat meme.

Nala Cat

**Nala Cat**, the most followed cat on Instagram with over 4 million fans, is known for her shocked wide eyes. Rescued from a shelter, Nala promotes spaying/neutering to prevent euthanasia. Her adventures include books and collabs.

Nala’s expressive face and charity work make her a force for good.

Nyan Cat

**Nyan Cat**, an animated Pop-Tart-bodied cat with a rainbow trail, debuted in 2011 by Chris Torres. The 3-minute loop garnered over 200 million YouTube views, inspiring games and merch. It’s the quintessential early meme cat.

Henri the Existential Cat

**Henri the Existential Cat**, a French feline, ponders life’s absurdities in subtitled videos. Since 2007, his brooding monologues have millions of views, blending philosophy with cat stares.

Henri’s deadpan delivery offers humorous insights into ennui.

Sockington

**Sockington**, or Socks, boasts 1.5 million Twitter followers since 2009. His stream-of-consciousness tweets about daily feline life are hilariously relatable.

Socks pioneered cat Twitter, influencing countless accounts.

Klepto Cat (Dusty)

**Klepto Cat** Dusty, a Snowshoe from California, steals neighbors’ items nightly—over 600 documented. His owner’s blog showcases gloves, toys, and more, turning theft into comedy gold.

Dusty embodies mischievous cat stereotypes.

Other Notable Mentions

• Venus the Two-Faced Cat: Chimera cat with one orange, one black face.
• Fukumaru: Heterochromia cat in a heartwarming story with an elderly woman.
• Pudge: Cat with a mustache like Hamilton.
• Oskar the Blind Cat: Inspires with his zest despite blindness.
• Street Cat Bob: Fame from books and movies about his life with a homeless man.

The Impact of Internet Cats

These cats raised millions for charities, promoted adoption, and humanized felines. They’ve inspired art, products, and even scientific interest in cat behavior. However, fame brought challenges like privacy invasions and health strains.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What made Grumpy Cat famous?

Her viral Reddit photo in 2013, showcasing her dwarfism-induced grumpy look.

Is Maru still alive?

Yes, as of recent updates, the Scottish Fold continues delighting fans at 17.

How did Nyan Cat start?

Animated by Chris Torres in 2011 from viewer suggestions.

Do these cats benefit charities?

Many do, like Lil Bub and Nala supporting shelters and spaying.

What’s the most viewed cat video?

Maru’s box compilations top 400 million views.

These internet legends remind us why cats captivate us: their unfiltered personalities shine online, bringing joy to millions. Whether through memes or advocacy, their paw prints are permanent.