Claude is a creation of Chuck Jones, though it is questionable when he debuted. The main traits of the character are neurotic behaviors, self-destructive tendencies and irrational fears. An unnamed cat with at least some of these traits first appeared in "The Aristo-Cat" (1943). As a victim to the mind games of Hubie and Bertie. But this a black cat, similar in design to Sylvester.  
 
Chuck Jones continued featuring neurotic cats in several 1940s toons. With several argued to be prototypes of Claude. For example in "Odor-Able Kitty" (1945) features the male cat romantically pursued by Pepe Le Pew and very uncomfortable. The character was redesigned and received its proper name in "Mouse Wreckers" (1949). The film was nominated for an Oscar.  
 
Claude appeared in other seven or eight cartoons. The last being "No Barking" (1954). Claude is a memorable enough character to receive frequent cameos in Looney Tunes productions of the 1990s and the early 21st century. But too obscure to get a shot at starring again.