Colonel Meow Dead? Internet Mourns Loss of World's Furriest Cat

Colonel Meow has died. A furry Persian-Himalayan cat given the title "Colonel Meow" for his look passed away in Los Angeles on Wednesday. The cause of death of the world's furriest cat has not yet been revealed.

Colonel Meow passed away at the young age of 2. The grey and black kitty was owned by Anne Marie Avey, who called herself the Slave Beast. On Wednesday, she took the Colonel Meow's Facebook page to post the sad news. "Colonel Meow passed away yesterday evening. I will post more about the details when I've had a few days to grieve. Thank you so much for your understanding, Minions. Your love and support has meant the world to us both. -Slave Beast."

Colonel Meow's story began when he was abandoned on the side of the road in Seattle and was rescued by the Himalayan and Persian Society. The young cat was cleared for adoption through Petco, where Avey came across the pet.

Avey created a fanbase for the furry feline. He grew to have more than 360,000 followers who became known as "minions." When Colonel Meow became ill in November, fans sent in more than $20,000 to cover the fees of treatment. However the money and support may not have been enough.

Part of Colonel Meow's fame came from being a world record holder. The cat was given the Guinness World Record for having the longest fur. His fur measured 9 inches. Meow went on to have his own YouTube channel, website and Facebook page. He will be missed by many.