When the Internet first collectively laid its eyes on cats, it was love at first furball.

Though the cat's popularity dates far beyond the computer's lifespan, the Internet has increased our love tenfold. Now, it seems like a newer, weirder, fluffier, derpier kitty is born for Internet glory every day. At this point, the cat GIF supply has enough energy to keep the world spinning. (Probably.)

But where did it all start? How many cats can there really be? Are we truly this obsessed?

To answer these questions plaguing our sleepless nights, we dug deep into the annals of the Internet and discovered where the web's feline fascination began.

From Ceiling Cat to Princess Monster Truck — and every a-meow-zing cat in between — we've cited them below in chronological order with their initial origin. You're going to need a tall saucer of milk for this one.

The Unofficial Hiss-tory of Cats on the Internet

BONUS: How Not to Make Your Cat Internet Famous