Who invented catgirls?

I'm curious to know, who exactly is responsible for the creation of catgirls? It's a fascinating concept that has captured the imagination of many, but I'm left wondering, who was the visionary behind this unique blend of feline features and humanoid form? Was it an artist seeking to push the boundaries of creativity? A programmer experimenting with new forms of digital art? Or perhaps it was a collective effort, with multiple minds contributing to the development of this intriguing phenomenon? I'd love to hear more about the origins of catgirls and the story behind their creation.