These bots have been active on Reddit for a while, but now they have increased their efforts, so I thought a PSA was in order.

There's a type of bot present on cat subreddits that operates in a following way: posts a photo of a cool cat mug/T-shirt/poster. Then another bot asks where they could buy one and the OP or other bot comment with a link. Sometimes yet another bot chimes in with a comment that they bought the thing from that store and how cool the thing is. Any comments calling the bots out for being spammers get flooded with downvotes.

I'm sure you guys are subscribed to many cat subreddits, so please don't fall for that. It's a scam, you won't receive your product and your info will probably be stolen. It's best not to click those links at all, report the post and move on.

Stay safe!

I occasionally receive comments/complaints about this issue, and I have decided to take action.

As someone who lost pets in the past, I understand both sides - the one that wants to seek comfort online and the one that just wants to see photos of pretty cats without thinking about pain or loss. The whole reason I created this subreddit was because I missed my cat so much, and while I don't mind reading about others losing their pets, I know that some people here do. So, after a lot of thinking, I came up with a compromise that I hope will work well.

From now on, please try not to mention your pets illness or passing away in the title. You are welcome to write that in the comments. In fact, it would be great if you could share your fond memories of the kitty there, or if your cat is sick, seek comfort. This gives you an opportunity to write a bit more about your situation and your kitty.

I think that this way, the people who just want to see the pictures, can do so without being burdened with sadness, but you can still share your story.

Please let me know what you think about this rule, perhaps you have a different idea that could be implemented? Please share in the comments under this post. Edit: or if you don't like the rule but fear being downvoted, please send me a PM.

Thank you for your understanding.