How Waffles the Cat Became a Beloved Social Media Icon
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The post How Waffles the Cat Became a Beloved Social Media Icon by Elisa Jordan appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.
Many pets have their own social media accounts but few have the enduring star power of Waffles the cat. Waffles, a Scottish Fold, didn’t always have such celebrity status. As a kitten, the orange-and-white little guy was unable to find a forever home because he was “ugly.”
Waffles’ not-so-glamorous start
Hard to believe that some found this cute kitten ugly, which made it hard for him to find his forever home. Photography courtesy Waffles the Cat.
Although it seems impossible now, what with his more than 700,000 Instagram followers and nearly two-and-a-half million Facebook followers, cat parent Laine Lee insists that’s the case. When Laine first met Waffles, he was 7 months old and had no prospective permanent homes on the horizon. “When we asked why, they said it’s because he’s ugly,” she says. “Looking back now, he was probably sick and had various infections.”
As it turns out, Laine wasn’t even looking for a cat that day, but the little “ugly” kitten stole her heart. “I was having crazy dog fever and had been looking for a dog,” she says. “We visited all kinds of shelters and homes with dogs available. Waffles happened to be at one of the homes.” It was a fortunate turn of events for all involved.
Becoming a celebricat
Thanks to veterinary care and a new, loving home, Waffles blossomed. He gained weight and soon exhibited the first signs of his superstar qualities. His large, anime-like eyes, pink nose, round head and — of course — folded ears make Waffles look almost like an adorable stuffed animal or cartoon character. After posting some pictures online, Laine noticed that he was getting attention — and not just from friends and family. Strangers were also starting to respond.
Soon Laine began having fun with her cat’s popularity. In addition to the fun photos she posted on social media, a line of Waffles-themed products launched for his growing fan base. It was an easy thing for Laine to experiment with. “I’ve always done art as a hobby, and it was a natural extension of that hobby.” Shirts, calendars, keychains, stationery and more are all available on his official website.
Waffles’ continued influence
See more Waffles at wafflescat.com, and follow his adventures on Instagram @waffles_the_cat and on Facebook @WafflesCat. Photography courtesy Waffles the Cat.
Waffles’ profile has only continued to expand. He has appeared in magazines, commercials, the movie Nine Lives and has even made personal appearances around the country.
The once-ugly kitten has completely reinvented himself and been named one of the top 10 Pet Influencers by Forbes Magazine. Waffles himself remains humble despite his position as a power player in the pet world. When not jet-setting around the globe for meet and greets with his fans, he spends time lounging, bathing himself and people-watching from windows.
Mostly, though, he spreads good cheer through his photos. His fun and gentle personality comes through in his pictures, which is the reason for his continued success. Laine says that Waffles is the sweetest, cuddliest family member. “I am so lucky to cuddle him every day.”
Thumbnail: Photography courtesy Waffles the Cat.
About the author
Elisa Jordan is a Southern California freelance writer specializing in pets. She has a terrier, Gidget, and a cat, Izzy.
Editor’s note: This article originally appeared in Catster magazine. Have you seen the new Catster print magazine in stores? Or in the waiting area of your vet’s office? Click here to subscribe to Catster and get the bimonthly magazine delivered to your home.
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The post How Waffles the Cat Became a Beloved Social Media Icon by Elisa Jordan appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.
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