Internet sensation Grumpy Cat has died at age 7 after suffering a urinary tract infection that was “too tough to overcome.”
Grumpy, real name Tardar Sauce, and her miserable expression inspired hundreds of memes in the online world. Her picture was first posted on Reddit back in September 2012.
A statement released by her family said: “We are unimaginably heartbroken to announce the loss of our beloved Grumpy Cat.”
“Despite care from top professionals, as well as from her very loving family, Grumpy encountered complications from a recent urinary tract infection that unfortunately became too tough for her to overcome.”
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“She passed away peacefully on the morning of Tuesday, May 14, at home in the arms of her mommy, Tabatha.”
The message continued, “Besides being our baby and a cherished member of the family, Grumpy Cat has helped millions of people smile all around the world – even when times were tough.”
“Her spirit will continue to live on through her fans everywhere.” Grumpy was born with a form of feline dwarfism, which kept her small and gave her an underbite, hence the facial expression. Aubrey Plaza, who voiced the kitty in the 2014 movie “Grumpy Cat’s Worst Christmas Ever”, paid an emotional tribute on Instagram.
She shared: “My heart is broken. I will miss you grumpy cat. You were and will always be my true spirit animal… whether you like it or not.”
Garfield also posted:
Cat owners from all corners of the Internet paid tribute to Grumpy Cat by posting the best scowling photos of their feline friends.
See more tributes below.