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There are not a lot of communities on the internet that you can just leave to self-govern and come back a few years later only to see it as wholesome as it was in the beginning.

But animal lovers seem to be one of the few. For example, there's a Facebook group called 'Cat Memes.'

It originally started in 2019 because of a competition during a Ferrum College women's soccer team's scavenger hunt but has grown into a 1.6-million-member online space, maintaining its positive and vibrant atmosphere.

More info: Facebook

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    It's not just the wholesome Facebook group that has seen rapid growth. For example, pet ownership in the U.S. has jumped significantly over the past three decades. As of 2023, 66% of American households (86.9 million homes) own a pet. That's up from 56% in 1988!

    From companionship to emotional support, animals have become a vital part of our lives. In fact, 85% of dog owners and 76% of cat owners see their pets as a member of the family.

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    Milady Blue
    Community Member
    10 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Well, you won't get me boots and spurs, so get over here and push this thing!

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    Currently, Millennials make up the largest percentage of pet owners (33%), followed by Gen X (25%) and Baby Boomers (24%).

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    However, Gen Z pet owners are far more likely than other age groups to have a variety of pets.

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    But the roots for our feline frenzy go way back. The ancient Egyptians are generally thought to have been the first to domesticate cats, breeding them to produce a distinct new species around 4,000 to 3,900 years ago.

    Although researchers have long suspected that humans began taming wild cats much earlier, for a long time they had limited evidence supporting this idea.

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    But scientists have discovered a site on the Mediterranean island of Cyprus from around 9,500 years ago with the remains of a human and a cat, as well as a rich variety of offerings, and it is now believed to be the oldest known evidence of our special friendship.

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    Lily Anne
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    10 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Oh, I often visit a cat cafe with former stray cats, saved from the street. They often hop on the table, once grabbed the cream from my pudding, but otherwise are well behaved. My cat also hops on the table to check what we are eating.

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    Dr. Patricia Pendry of Washington State University, who studies human-animal interactions, speculates that it might be the felines' discriminating behavior that's so irresistible to humans.

    "The subtle and somewhat unpredictable responses cats give us, give us the perception that we are chosen — or perceived as 'special' when a response from a cat does occur," she said. "I also believe that because the response tends to take a little bit more time to emerge, we are captivated by a desire to know what the cat will do."

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    Milady Blue
    Community Member
    10 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    No one answered the ad he put up on Craigslist for a servant, so he has to go and scout for one.

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    It is also possible, according to some research, that we cannot help but find felines to be cute due to the features they share with human babies. We instinctively respond to the large eyes and playful behavior, an evolutionarily beneficial response that has helped ensure we care for our young.

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    The Facebook group 'Cat Memes' captures this beautifully. Whether it's a kitty curled up in a cozy spot, batting at a dangling toy, or donning a quirky expression, each image showcases the charming antics that make our feline friends so lovable.

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    Pumpkinpi
    Community Member
    10 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Well cats have generally been familiars for witches, maybe he’s just remembering a past life?

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    #34

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    Milady Blue
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    10 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Especially if you can get the motor going - nice, warm, vibrating kitty massager!

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    #49

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    Hilary Mol
    Community Member
    10 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    *facepalm* I can practically hear my dad fighting to come back to life just to tell this dad joke.

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    #59

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    Pumpkinpi
    Community Member
    10 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My dog does this to me ALL the time when she’s ticked off at me. Just sits with her back turned until I beg her forgiveness through a treat or extra affection.

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    #60

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    malleymac84_1
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    10 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That expression may be from it being a him and wearing a big flower on a pink collar.

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    #70

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    Regina Holt
    Community Member
    10 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I had to stop using the red dot, because one of my cats didn't care to chase it. She would stare at where the light was coming from. Yeah, eye safety is big with me.

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    Garth
    Community Member
    10 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I see many treats in my future to prevent your bad luck....

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