Grumpy Cat Has Passed Away

Grumpy Cat, an Internet superstar known for her signature grumpy facial expression, has died. The news was announced Friday, May 17, via the Grumpy Cat social media channels.

Sharing an image of Grumpy Cat, her owners wrote on Twitter that the seven-year-old cat had passed following "complications from a recent unitary tract infection that unfortunately became too tough for her to overcome." The family reported that Grumpy Cat passed away on Tuesday, May 14.

Celebrating the impact of Grumpy Cat, the family shared their appreciation for the world's feline friend, writing, "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 Cat, whose real name was Tardar Sauce, rose to Internet fame in 2012. After an image of the cat was posted to Reddit, many had theorized that the facial expression was somehow Photoshopped. Hoping to disprove Internet critics, the family posted YouTube videos and additional images of the cat, which resulted in Internet superstardom. In 2014, Grumpy Cat started in a holiday movie, Grumpy Cat's Worst Christmas Ever, which aired on Lifetime.

The family attributed her facial expression to possible feline dwarfism, and noted that the cat's back legs were a bit different than her front legs, resulting in a wobbly walk. They also noted that Grumpy Cat had regular vet checkups, and that 99% of the time, she wasn't in front of the camera. In fact, she preferred to be held and cuddled.

Users on social media shared their tributes: "Rest in peace, Grumpy Cat," one user tweeted. "You were a legend in the world of cats. And a whole Internet sensation in the world of humans." Author Paul Rigby also shared a tribute, writing, "RIP Grumpy Cat. Your unique blend of charm, wit and versatility will be sadly missed by us all. Cat heaven has a new grumpy angel."

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Originally Appeared on Teen Vogue