The world lost a very special kitty on Sunday, Dec. 1. Lil Bub, an internet celebrity cat with a lopsided tongue and kitten face, passed away peacefully in her sleep at age 8. Her owner, Mike Bridavsky, announced her death on social media today. He is celebrating her life, her influence on animal welfare, and research for special needs pets.
Born in June 2011 as the runt of her litter with a form of feline dwarfism, Lil Bub’s genetic mutations gave her the unique features of a kitten. Her toothless jaw left her tongue hanging out. She’s been the subject of a genetic research campaign to better understand gene mutations, and helped raise over $700,000 for animals in need through partnerships with organizations like the ASPCA.