The world of social media has done four?noticeable things since the beginning of the 21st century. First, it has changed the method?of communication. Second, it has brought celebrities and fans closer together. Third, it has helped people stay in touch outside of work. And fourth, it has, unfortunately, made stupid people famous.
Of those 4, making stupid people famous is by far one of social media’s biggest impacts. And most recently, social media fame has shone on Lena Lenina, a Russian writer who dyed her cat’s fur pink. Lenina dyed the cats fur pink for a “Pretty in Pink Party,” which required guests to wear all pink. Apparently, the inclusion also pertained to the cat. While animal rights group have questioned her actions, Lenina remained strong in her decision, and said,
“The pink colour was especially chosen for its healing properties and also strengthens the cat’s hair.”
While I can’t speak to the validity of her claim, animal rights groups have now brought up an online petition for animal cruelty in the case of the pink cat. Apparently, the petition has gained a 30,000 signatures.
But just as we were about to put a cap on the story of the pink cat, false claims of the cat dying made by Metro.co hit the presses, and the story continued. But as Gawker discovered, the cat is still alive and well, according to Lena Lenina, who posted pictures of her slightly-less-pink cat on Instagram. Lenina has asked the news to?apologize and is looking to sue for defamation. Lena took to Instagram and Twitter?stating,
“Would you like to apologize?”
We now know?that an apology was apparently given by Daily Mail and Metro, but we can still learn a few lessons from this story. First off, naming the cat Nana, which we can only assume is after the many vowels in Lenina’s own name, is just too much. Secondly, the flurry of social media attention that Lenina gained has only furthered making stupid people famous. Third, it is important to know all of the facts before claiming the cat is dead. And lastly, tread lightly when dying an animal’s fur a different color, unless, of course, you want to become a star on social media.
