The internet is a playground where talent often emerges in the most surprising of forms. From dancing cats to meme-worthy dogs, the World Wide Web has anointed its fair share of animal royalty. But what happens when the viral spotlight dims? Here, we delve into the journeys of 13 pets who captured hearts—and what life looks like after their digital fame.
1. Grumpy Cat
Grumpy Cat, the internet’s original feline celebrity, shot to stardom with a single, disdainful glare. Known offline as Tardar Sauce, her permanent scowl was due to feline dwarfism and an underbite. The grumpy visage resonated universally, leading to merchandise, a book deal, and even a movie. According to the New York Times, her fame translated into millions in revenue, cementing her status as a pop culture phenomenon.
Despite passing away in 2019, Grumpy Cat’s legacy endures in memes and merchandise. Her family continues to manage her social media accounts, keeping her memory alive with nostalgic throwbacks. While no new content graces her page, the grumpy spirit remains in the digital fabric of cat iconography. It seems that even in the afterlife, Grumpy Cat’s influence refuses to fade.
2. Lil Bub
Lil Bub, the doe-eyed kitty with an ever-present blep, charmed the world with her unique appearance. Born with multiple genetic anomalies, including dwarfism and polydactylism, she became a symbol of positivity and resilience. Her owner, Mike Bridavsky, shared Bub’s delightful antics on social media, capturing a massive following. This fame translated into a book, a talk show, and a Vice Media documentary.
After Bub’s passing in 2019, her fans and family paid homage by continuing to support animal charities in her name. Bridavsky often reflects on how Bub changed his life, calling her a “force of nature.” The Lil Bub Foundation, founded in her memory, helps homeless pets with special needs. Her legacy thrives as a beacon of hope for animals and humans alike.
3. Boo the Pomeranian
Dubbed the “cutest dog in the world,” Boo the Pomeranian took social media by storm with his teddy bear cut and playful demeanor. His viral journey began in 2010, quickly amassing millions of followers on Facebook. Boo’s popularity led to book deals, calendars, and a plush toy line, making him a bona fide internet superstar according to Today. Boo’s owner worked at Facebook, giving him a unique platform for stardom.
Boo’s life was filled with worldwide travel, TV appearances, and countless photoshoots until his passing in 2019. His loyal fanbase mourned collectively, sharing memories and tributes on social media. Despite his absence, Boo’s influence persists through continued sales of his merchandise. The Pomeranian’s legacy serves as a reminder of the joy and connection an adorable pet can bring to the world.
4. Doug the Pug
Doug the Pug, with his signature squishy face and penchant for quirky costumes, has delighted millions across platforms. Living in Nashville, Doug’s human-like expressions and scenarios became an instant hit, making him a staple in the pet influencer arena. His online escapades have led to collaborations with celebrities, a New York Times bestseller, and even a People’s Choice Award for Favorite Animal Star.
Doug’s fame has been continually leveraged for charitable causes, including fundraising for animal shelters and children’s hospitals. His human, Leslie Mosier, ensures Doug’s social media channels remain active with engaging content. The pug’s lighthearted presence serves as a reminder of the joy and laughter pets can bring. The world may change, but Doug’s charm remains a constant source of smiles.
5. Jiffpom
Jiffpom, the diminutive Pomeranian with an enviable social media following, is not just a pet; he’s a brand. Known for his playful antics and petite stature, Jiffpom’s presence is felt on platforms like Instagram, where he boasts millions of followers. His world record for ‘fastest dog on two paws’ catapulted him into the limelight, solidifying his place in internet lore. Jiffpom’s collaborations extend to major brands and music videos, showcasing his broad appeal.
Beyond the limelight, Jiffpom lives a life filled with glamour and adventure. From red carpet events to international travel, his life mirrors that of a Hollywood star. Meanwhile, his human team skillfully manages his brand, ensuring his place in the annals of pet fame. Jiffpom remains a testament to the universal appeal of an adorable face and a bit of canine charisma.
6. Nyan Cat
In 2011, Nyan Cat, the pixelated feline flying through space with a rainbow trail, became an internet sensation. Created by Chris Torres, this meme gained momentum for its catchy tune and whimsical animation. Nyan Cat represented a simpler time in internet culture, when viral hits were spontaneous and delightfully random. The meme’s success led to a surge of fan art, games, and parodies, embedding it in digital folklore.
Post-virality, Nyan Cat continues to appear in various forms, from NFT sales to occasional appearances in internet retrospectives. Chris Torres remains involved with the character, occasionally updating the animation for anniversaries. While new memes come and go, Nyan Cat retains a loyal fanbase that treasures its nostalgic charm. The legacy of this pixelated feline proves that simplicity and creativity often make the most lasting impact.
7. Maru the Cat
Maru, the Japanese Scottish Fold cat famous for his love of boxes, has been delighting fans since 2008. His YouTube channel showcases his antics, primarily his comedic attempts to fit into boxes of all sizes. Maru’s simple yet entertaining videos have amassed millions of views, making him one of the most viewed cats on the platform. His charm lies in his predictability; no matter the box size, Maru will try to conquer it.
Despite newer internet stars emerging, Maru’s fanbase remains steadfast. His human, Mugumogu, continues to post regularly, ensuring Maru’s antics are shared with the world. Maru’s consistency and dedication to his box-centric pursuits have kept his audience engaged for over a decade. The enduring appeal of Maru’s content speaks to the timeless joy found in feline quirks.
8. Keyboard Cat
Keyboard Cat, the internet’s musical feline, won hearts with his playful keyboard prowess. Originating in 2007, the video showed a charming orange tabby ‘playing’ a tune while dressed in a blue shirt. The video became a popular meme, often used humorously to play people off in videos. As memes evolved, Keyboard Cat’s tune became part of internet history, forever linked to the art of comedic timing.
After the original Keyboard Cat passed away, his owner, Charlie Schmidt, introduced a successor to continue the legacy. The new Keyboard Cat took up the mantle, keeping the spirit alive through fresh content. Though internet trends shift, the nostalgic appeal of a cat making music remains unmatched. Keyboard Cat exemplifies how lighthearted fun can transcend digital generations.
9. Sam has Eyebrows
Sam, the cat known for his distinctive eyebrow markings, captured hearts with an expression of perpetual surprise. His unique appearance quickly led to an Instagram following that adored his every move. Sam’s surprised look became his signature, sparking memes and online discussions about his unique charm. His journey underscores how a simple physical trait can resonate deeply in the digital age.
Though Sam’s online presence has quieted, his legacy endures through the countless shares and interactions his images inspired. His eyebrows became a symbol of quirkiness, and his story an example of how individuality can captivate. The magic of Sam with Eyebrows lies in his ability to make people smile with just a glance. His story is a testament to the allure of unconventional beauty.
10. Tika the Iggy
Tika the Iggy, the stylish Italian Greyhound, is known for her impeccable fashion sense and sassy attitude. She skyrocketed to fame with her fashionable Instagram posts, showcasing an array of outfits that rival the closets of many humans. Her unique style and humorous captions have made her a staple in the world of pet influencers. Tika’s sartorial choices have landed her features in fashion magazines and collaborations with designers.
Beyond the glamour, Tika remains relatable, sharing candid moments that endear her to fans worldwide. Her human, Thomas Shapiro, ensures that Tika’s content remains fresh and engaging, keeping her followers entertained. The combination of high fashion and down-to-earth moments makes Tika a relatable yet aspirational figure. Her influence in the pet fashion world is undeniable, proving that style knows no species.
11. Tuna the Chiweenie
Tuna, the dog with an exaggerated overbite, became an internet darling with his unique appearance and charming personality. His Instagram account showcases his adventures and distinctive look, delighting millions of followers. Tuna’s appeal lies in his ability to embrace his quirks, turning them into assets that have led to book deals and merchandise. This Chiweenie has become a symbol of how embracing one’s uniqueness can be a source of strength.
Even as new pet influencers emerge, Tuna’s star continues to shine brightly. His human, Courtney Dasher, shares insights into Tuna’s life, creating a personal connection with his audience. Tuna’s story is a reminder that imperfection can be a superpower, generating warmth and acceptance. His enduring popularity illustrates the timeless appeal of authenticity in a curated world.
12. Venus the Two-Faced Cat
Venus, the cat with a strikingly split-colored face, became an internet sensation for her one-of-a-kind appearance. Her face is perfectly divided into black and orange, with one blue eye and one green eye, captivating audiences worldwide. Venus’s distinct look has garnered her millions of followers on Instagram, where she shares her daily life and adventures. Her story highlights the fascination with natural anomalies and the beauty found in diversity.
Venus’s fame has allowed her to become an ambassador for embracing differences, resonating with audiences seeking authenticity. Her human, Christina, continues to manage Venus’s social media presence, sharing her story and advocating for animal rescue. Venus’s influence extends beyond her unique appearance, embodying themes of acceptance and individuality. Her journey is a testament to the power of visual storytelling in the digital age.
13. Manny the Frenchie
Manny the Frenchie, the lovable Bulldog with a heart-shaped face, became a social media superstar with his playful antics and adorable looks. His Instagram account quickly amassed millions of followers, thanks to his charming personality and relatable adventures. Manny’s rise to fame included partnerships with brands, charity work, and appearances at events, making him a well-rounded internet icon. His story demonstrates the power of a personality-driven approach to pet fame.
Beyond the digital fame, Manny remains a beloved family pet, with his humans championing causes close to their hearts. They use his platform to support animal welfare initiatives and engage with his community thoughtfully. Manny’s lasting appeal lies in his ability to connect with fans on a personal level, reminding them of the joy pets bring to everyday life. His legacy continues to inspire both online and offline, proving that a little charm goes a long way.