Benefits of the Internet Cat Sensation

It all started with a simple, poorly spelled question:

and an Internet sensation was born. Lolcats entertained millions of viewers across the world with their poor use of the English language and silly antics, but what started as mere entertainment has since created a useful niche for animals everywhere. I've mentioned in previous posts how the Internet can have negative affects on society, but this medium can have many benefits, one of which we can thank our furry friends for.

 

Lil Bub, Pudge, Tartar Sauce (better known as The Grumpy Cat), Colonel Meow, Nala, Hamilton the Hipster Cat, and Oskar the Blind Cat are among many felines who have become famous via the Internet. Several of these cats were either found as strays or rescued from shelters, and some of them were considered "unadoptable" because of physical deformations. Lil Bub is perhaps the most notable of these cases.

Born the runt of a feral litter, Lil Bub has a number of genetic anomalies including an extreme case of dwarfism, a short lower jaw, no teeth, and extra toes on each of her paws. Fortunately she lives a very happy and healthy life and has used her unusual appearance and cuteness to raise money for animals in need. According to her website (Lilbub.com), Lil Bub has raised over $60,000 for charities through her online store and meet-and-greets at animal shelters across the country. She encourages pet adoption, spreads the importance of spaying and neutering your pets, and serves as a reminder that being different is a good thing.

 

Grumpy Cat and Pudge (pictured above) are also cats who use their fame to help animals in need. Proceeds from the sale of their merchandise goes to animal shelters. Many of these cats have banned together for the sake of charity (see below):

It's really quite amazing what the Internet can do to help those in need. Not only have these cats all found loving homes, but they've encouraged others to donate money, time, and love to a good cause: the overall wellbeing of cats everywhere. Does that make anyone else feel warm and fuzzy on the inside? If nothing else, these animals have provided millions of people with a much needed laugh or an "aww" after a long day. I encourage everyone to adopt from a shelter, or at the very least volunteer at a local humane society. The animals will thank you.

R.I.P Colonel Meow