"We are unimaginably heartbroken."
In a statement shared on social media, owner
Tabatha Bundesen and her brother Bryan revealed that despite care from some of the best medical professionals, the cat encountered complications from a urinary tract infection which “became too tough for her to overcome”.
The famous moggy, who was seven years old, passed away on Tuesday 14 May “at home in the arms of her mummy”.
Grumpy Cat, who has 2.4 million followers on Instagram, became an online sensation in 2012 after Tabatha’s brother Bryan posted a photo of her on Reddit. She shot to fame, thanks to her unique unhappy look – caused by an underbite and feline dwarfism.
Originally named Tardar Sauce, Grumpy was thought to have a net worth of at least $1m, and became the subject of thousands of memes and merchandise. Among her many partnerships was an iced coffee called Grumppuccino and a modelling deal for Friskies cat food.
She also made an appearance on Broadway, as well as starring in a film and ‘writing’ four best-selling books.
Her most recent business endeavour was a fragrance called Kitten Fur.
“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,” read the statement from the cat’s family, shared on Twitter on Friday morning.
“Her spirit will continue to live on through her fans everywhere.”
Heartbroken fans have flocked to Instagram and Twitter to share their condolences. One person wrote: “This is heartbreaking but thank you for bringing joy to so many people around the world. She was a beautiful little girl and I’m glad to have known of her.”
Another added: “The grumpiness will survive through us all, everything from the merch to the memes that started it all. She was a special little kitty, and had a beautiful home during her stay here. Rest in peace, you sweet little grump.”
Tributes also flooded in from Sesame Street (which Grumpy Cat visited) and Reddit.
Rest in peace, Grumpy Cat.