Internet Star and Record-Holding Feline Colonel Meow Dies

Last fall, news that the Colonel’s heart wasn’t “doing the greatest” drew get-well wishes from supporters worldwide

Thousands of minions are mourning Thursday at the news that Colonel Meow, an Internet-famous feline who recently landed a spot in the Guinness World Records, is no longer swigging scotch and plotting his world domination.

“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,” his owner wrote on Facebook Thursday.

Police Dog Discovers $1.3M in Cocaine

The Colonel – a rescue cat thought to be between 2 and 3 years old – became an Internet star last year after his owners, Anne Marie Avey and Eric Rosario, began posting photos of him online with his now-famous long hair and eerily human scowl.

Last fall, news that the Colonel’s heart wasn’t “doing the greatest” drew get-well wishes from supporters worldwide. His fans – lovingly called “minions” – raised more than $21,000 to pay for his medical bills (any money left over would be donated to emergency pet care, his owners said).

Photos: Adorable Zoo Babies

On Thursday, condolences poured into the Facebook page dedicated to the curmudgeonly cat, which boasts more than 347,000 fans.

“May he dominate the afterlife and submit all there to his will ...” Leela Cosgrove wrote.

A few months before the Colonel became sick, the Guinness World Records revealed some news that could bring a smile even to Colonel Meow’s smug mug.

With hair as long as 9 inches, the Himalayan-Persian cross-breed landed a spot in the record book as "cat with the longest fur." He will be featured in the Guinness World Records 2014 book, according to the Guinness website.

Contact Us