Remembering Lil Bub, The Internet's Sweetest Cat

The beloved internet personality passed away on Sunday.

Elana

• Published in News
• December 3, 2019

It's a devastating day for cat lovers, but especially the sweet folks who have cared for Lil Bub her whole life. The sweet cat passed away on Sunday, December 1st and after taking some time to mourn in privacy, her family shared her passing on her Instagram.

Bub's unique appearance led to her rise in Internet fame. Born the runt of a feral litter, Bub had a "severe" case of feline dwarfism that led to her maintining her adorable kitten size her whole life. In addition to feline dwarfism, Bub had one extra toe on all four of her paws and also a rare bone condition called osteopetrosis.

In her 8 years, Lil Bub did extraordinary things. She was both an author and an actor, and a TV Host/Spokescat for Animal Planet.

But purrhaps her most notable title besides beloved family member was philanthropist. Lil Bub has raised over $600,000 for cats in need.

"This is my first photo with BUB next our last photo together."

Now, we would like to pay tribute to Lil Bub by sharing the beautiful words her family shared about her on Instagram, as well as photos of her legacy, and the kind condolances those have shared in her loving memory.

To help Lil Bub's legacy live on, you can check out her store here.

On the morning of Sunday, December 1st 2019 we lost the purest, kindest and most magical living force on our planet. BUB was cheerful and full of love laying in our bed with us Saturday night, but unexpectedly passed away peacefully in her sleep.. I have always been fully transparent about BUB's health, and it was no secret that she was battling a persistent and aggressive bone infection. Even knowing this, we weren't expecting her to pass so soon or so abruptly without warning. I truly believe that she willingly made the decision to leave her failing body so that our family would not have to make that difficult decision ourselves. 

It is impossible to put into words the profound effect that BUB has had on my life, on the lives of thousands of homeless pets, and on the lives of those of you that have cared for her as if she were your own family. She taught me everything that I know about unconditional love, she brought my wife Stacy and I together, she's the reason we have our beautiful children Rosco and Lula, and she has been a constant source of warmth and love in our lives for the past 8 years. To say that our family is devastated would be an understatement.

But most importantly, BUB has made a huge difference in the world of animal welfare, and in the lives of millions of people worldwide. She has literally saved thousands of lives (both pets and humans), she started the first national fund for special needs pets, she was the subject of groundbreaking genetic and biological research, she's helped raise over $700,000 for animals in need, and has spread a message of determination, positivity, and perseverance to people all over the world. And even though my heart is absolutely crushed by her graceful departure from planet Earth, I know that her sprit, magic, and overwhelming energy are still with us, reminding us every day to be better.

Dearest BUB, I will never forget your generosity, your limitless supply of love, or your uncanny ability to bring so much magic and joy to the world. I am forever honored and humbled that you chose me as your caretaker. Please visit all of us in our dreams.

Lil Bub touched countless lives, and many have already begun to pay their respects.

The wonderful kitten lady, Hannah Shaw (a well known advocate and rescuer) shared beautiful thoughts and reflections:

My heart is truly broken over the loss of my dear friend Bub. A genuinely magical individual who undeniably changed the world forever. Not only did she bring so much joy to so many people, but she made an incredible impact in animal welfare through her generous fund, her scientific contributions, and the positive impact she made in helping people see all cats as beautiful and worthy. For all that she gave in her years on planet earth, she is the most beautiful and worthy of all. My deepest condolences go out to her entire family, who love her so very much.

Through tear-soaked eyes I’ve been looking through photos and videos of her this morning. We shared so many moments I will cherish forever. Her funny snorgly noises as she stuffed her face with food. Bubbysitting at conventions. The way she would crawl into your lap and fall asleep purring, her little wet chin resting upon your arm. We were supposed to fly away to outer space together in an airstream. Maybe someday we’ll still get the chance, if only in a dream.

Godspeed, you magical girl, and thank you for leaving the world a much better place than you found it. Good job, Bub.

Animal Planet's Jackson Galaxy:

I’m so completely heartbroken to hear about the sudden passing of Lil BUB yesterday. BUB (and her dude Mike, of course) single-handedly changed how the world sees cats. Her childlike sense of wonder, and sweet face, created a new generation of cat-lovers and for that we will always be grateful. Mike and BUB spent much of their time advocating for, and raising money for, the most vulnerable of cats in our animal welfare system - and for that, I’m grateful. More than anything - I will miss you, BUB. This first picture is from an event we did in Austin in 2013 and I’m not going to lie -when Mike allowed me to hold her, I was as nervous as holding a newborn baby! But it was the beginning of a friendship - one that I’ll never forget.  To BUB, thank you again - we all love you, and safe travels. To Mike, our hearts break with you, and we send you all of our Love and Light

Rest in Peace, Lil Bub. May your good work advocating for cats in need never seen an end.

Elana