The Rise of Cat Influencers & Social Media Cats in Malaysia: Pros, Cons, and Ethics

From Kampung Streets to TikTok Stars

Scroll through TikTok or Instagram in Malaysia and you’ll quickly notice something — cats dominate our feeds. From fluffy Persians lounging in condos to cheeky kampung cats stealing food at the mamak, Malaysian cats have quietly become social media celebrities.

These “cat influencers” aren’t just entertaining us — they’re changing how we see pets, how we spend money, and even how we treat animals. But with fame comes responsibility. Let’s take a closer look at the rise of social media cats in Malaysia, and the pros, cons, and ethical questions every pet parent should consider.

Why Malaysians Love Cat Content

Ask yourself: how many times a day do you stop scrolling just to watch a cat video? Probably more than once, right? 😅

Malaysian cat content is booming because:

• Relatability: Cats are already everywhere in our daily lives — in our homes, at mamaks, at pasar malam stalls.
  
  

• Stress relief: Watching cats is proven to reduce stress and make people feel happier.
  
  

• Cultural connection: Cats hold a special place in Malay Muslim households, often seen as blessings.
  
  

• Humour: Let’s be honest, nothing is funnier than a cat trying to squeeze into a Milo tin.
  
  

The Pros of Cat Influencers

1. Raising Awareness
   Many accounts use their platform to highlight adoption, neutering, or stray care. Viral videos of rescued kampung cats often inspire others to adopt.
   
   

2. Community Building
   Social media has created entire Malaysian cat lover communities. Facebook groups and TikTok hashtags connect owners who share tips, adoption posts, and funny clips.
   
   

3. Business Opportunities
   Cat influencers often collaborate with local brands, grooming shops, or pet cafés. This boosts the pet economy and normalises spending more on pet care.
   
   

4. Celebrating Cats as Family
   The rise of influencers shows how far we’ve come. Cats aren’t just “animals in the house” anymore; they’re anak bulus with personalities worth showcasing.
   
   

The Cons & Risks

1. Commodifying Cats
   Some accounts treat cats as props to gain followers, rather than companions. The pressure to produce daily content can cause stress for the animal.
   
   

2. Dangerous Trends
   Certain stunts — like dressing cats in tight costumes, forcing interactions with other animals, or exposing them to loud environments — may go viral but harm the cat’s wellbeing.
   
   

3. Impulse Buying
   Viral videos of specific breeds (e.g., Scottish Folds, Persians) may drive people to buy instead of adopting. Sadly, many of these cats end up abandoned when the novelty wears off.
   
   

4. Privacy & Overexposure
   Just like child influencers, cats can be “over-shared.” Constant filming, handling, or creating dramatic situations can cause unnecessary stress.
   
   

👉 Reflection for you: If your cat could speak, would they actually enjoy being filmed, or would they prefer peace and quiet on the sofa?

The Ethics of Social Media Cats

So where’s the line between fun content and exploitation? It comes down to intent and care.

• Consent (as much as possible): Does the cat look comfortable? Or are their ears flat, tail twitching, body tense?
  
  

• Safety first: Never put cats in risky situations just for likes.
  
  

• Respect boundaries: Cats need downtime. Not every moment should be filmed.
  
  

• Promote positivity: Use your platform to encourage adoption, spaying/neutering, and responsible pet care.
  
  

Tips for Aspiring Cat Influencers in Malaysia

1. Focus on natural behaviour — Let your cat’s quirks shine (the way they sleep, chase, or demand food).
   
   

2. Keep it short & fun — TikTok audiences love authentic, raw moments.
   
   

3. Educate while entertaining — Mix humour with helpful tips about grooming, nutrition, or adoption.
   
   

4. Be consistent, not overwhelming — Quality over quantity. Your cat’s welfare matters more than daily uploads.
   
   

5. Always, always prioritise wellbeing — The best influencers are the ones where cats look happy and relaxed.
   
   

The rise of Malaysian cat influencers is a reflection of who we are: a nation that truly loves its cats. From kampung strays to pampered pedigree stars, every cat has a story — and social media helps tell it.

But as audiences and creators, we have a responsibility: to make sure those stories are told with respect, kindness, and care. Because behind every viral video is a real living being, and their happiness should always come first.

✨ Next time you hit “like” on a cat video, ask yourself: Is this cat happy? Or is it just content for us? The answer matters more than the views.