I don’t want to alarm you, but there’s something you need to know: cats have taken over Instagram.
Now, while it’s true that we’re all guilty of seeing these cute fur buddies on our smartphones and double tapping our favourite Instacat, there’s a problem at hand, and it too might cause alarm: there are humans posting these pictures.
Ever since Grumpy Cat started showing her face everywhere, these strange humans took to social media to get their cat out into cyberspace; there is profit to be made if your cat goes viral, after all.
As much as I enjoy finding and following these humorous cats’ Instagrams, I could never get to the point of actually managing my cats’ media accounts for them, and I’m more than positive that my cats, being the passive, sassy creatures they are, are fine with that.
There are always going to be competitive pet owners who are convinced that they have the cutest cat in the world and would never let anyone tell them different. A couple of years ago, before cats became an internet trend, you’d be laughed at for starting an Instagram account for your cat. Makes sense.
Now, don’t get me wrong: there are still some people who won’t understand you, but I suppose if the cat collar fits, let it jingle. So, if you really want to take the plunge and become your cat’s publicist, here are a few tips.
If you love your feline enough to make it a social-media meme, you really have to play the role of your cat. Pretend that you’ve just landed the role of your cat in a blockbuster movie; you have to put your feet into the paws of your cat. Your bio and every post have to reflect your cat in every way; otherwise, your cat will be misportrayed and fake, sort of like the Kardashians. I don’t think your cat would appreciate that.
Now, one important thing to remember about the pictures you post is that they have to be staged properly. You have to make your cat’s posts artsy so they get more likes and a more creative flow. If the photos aren’t original and unique, you won’t have breakout Instagram fame like Lil Bub, which could cause feline envy and tension across scratching posts everywhere.
You’re also going to want to make sure you keep up with your cat’s Instagram. Post regularly! First off, you should already feel entitlement, being your cat’s personal publicist, and second of all, cats are narcissistic and want their face posted and recognized so they can roll in the catnip of their success.
Using pre-timed applications and setting up your week’s Instagram posts all at once is a great way to make sure each one is tied into your theme, because, let’s face it: your cat isn’t getting any younger. And neither are you. You both need this 15 minutes now.
You know, when cats open their own accounts and reach a noticeable following and fan base, it really shows how amazing the power of the internet is. People talk about the benefits of the internet: bringing people together, responding to emergencies, and fostering greater compassion by allowing communities a voice they wouldn’t have had otherwise.
I think it’s time we get real and add “making your cat famous” to that list.