Internet legend Grumpy cat dies at 7, family shares emotional post on social media

Grumpy cat, the internet’s most popular cat, passed away on Friday. She was seven years old. She died in the arms of her owner on Tuesday, according to an emotional statement posted on Instagram. 

"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," it read."She passed away peacefully on the morning of Tuesday, May 14, at home in the arms of her mommy, Tabatha."

"Besides being our baby and a cherished member of the family, Grumpy Cat has helped millions of people smile around the world – even when times were tough," the statement continued. "Her spirit will continue to live on through her fans everywhere."

View this post on Instagram

Some days are grumpier than others...

A post shared by Grumpy Cat (@realgrumpycat) on May 17, 2019 at 2:01am PDT

Grumpy, whose real name was Tardar Sauce, went viral in 2012 after photographs of her sour expression emerged online. Her image quickly spread as a meme. Grumpy Cat travelled the world making television appearances and in 2014 even starred in her own Christmas film. 

Her Instagram account has more than two million followers.Fans were devastated by the news of her passing, asking why she was taken at such a young age.