Duke Orange: Singapore's latest Internet sensation

There's something about the Internet that seems to bring out the animal lover in people. Exhibit A: The insane number of cat videos posted on YouTube. Exhibit B: Maru the cat, one of the most popular pets in the world, and currently the ninth most subscribed YouTube channel in Japan. Exhibit C: Duke Orange, the adopted striped tabby who's developed such an office following that he has his own blog (written by his owner), Twitter account, Facebook Fan page, live video stream, YouTube videos and even a Duke Sightings dedicated webcam. Even Today Online dubbed him as "as Singapore's National Online Cat."

His besotted loyal followers (who call themselves Dukakis, an amalgamation of "Duke" and "kaki" from the Malay word meaning friend or buddy) even threw the feline an "Orangetron" birthday party in February, complete with Duke memorabilia goodie bags, photo taking session and a flood of kitty presents (including one inspired piece of Warhol-esque artwork by an adoring Dukaki). Pet jewelry blogstore Paw Glam also organized a charity giveaway contest, where the winner gets to pick a designer collar for Duke Orange and the proceeds go to the Stray Kitty Fund.

The famous feline wasn't always this fortunate though. He was a stray who was adopted by his current owners and became the office pet. Numerous blog posts, photos and belly scratches later, he became an Internet sensation, amusing and entertaining Singaporeans all over, even allergic and cat-phobic ones. There are even proxy petting sessions for those not in the country.

We have to give it to Duke Orange though. That's one tame, attention-loving cat. Head down to dukeorange.posterous.com to check out what's the fuss is all about.

If you're a Dukaki, drop us a line and explain to the doggie lovers why the fascination for Duke.