The Sad Cat meme, also known as Crying Cat, refers to a series of photoshopped images of cats featuring oversized, watery, tear-filled eyes. The trend originated around 2014 on an anonymous imageboard and eventually evolved into the viral 'Schmuserkadser' image before exploding globally. These images are primarily used as reaction photos to express feelings of sadness, disappointment, or self-pity in a humorous and exaggerated way. Because the glassy eyes are often edited onto various cat breeds and situations, the format is incredibly versatile, remaining a staple of internet culture for anyone needing to express a 'big mood' of sorrow.