Colonel Meow Dies, Held World Record for Longest Hair on a Cat

Colonel Meow, the feline Internet celebrity whose sourpuss face rivaled that of Grumpy Cat, died this week in Los Angeles, leaving his thousands of "Minion" fans in mourning.

The 2-year-old Himalayan-Persian mix died Wednesday, owner Ann Avery posted on Facebook Thursday.

Urgent: Do You Approve Or Disapprove of President Obama's Job Performance? Vote Now in Urgent Poll

"I will post more about the details when I've had a few days to grieve," she wrote. "Thank you so much for your understanding, Minions. Your love and support has meant the world to us both."

RIP Colonel Meow: The Internet-famous feline & world-record holder dies. http://t.co/Mpp7pwdz1L pic.twitter.com/30r3N2CUwz

— NBC Los Angeles (@NBCLA) January 31, 2014

Colonel Meow, who 9-inch-long furry coat earned him the Guinness World Record for longest fur on a cat in August, was hospitalized in November for heart problems. The cat was released after having a blood transfusion and an unspecified surgical procedure.

Colonel Meow's "Minion" fans took to Twitter to express their sympathy.

RIP Colonel Meow, your minions will miss you http://t.co/eoqBlEpWoO pic.twitter.com/80tevokcSg

— Sara Nelson (@SaraCNelson) January 31, 2014

I hope there's a cat heaven. #RIP Colonel Meow :/ pic.twitter.com/uelktk0hpz

— #GoHawks (@GREGR1077) January 30, 2014

In loving memory of @colonel_meow. A once overlooked rescue cat who brought a lot of good humor and smiles to us all. pic.twitter.com/JC23z6MeVo

— AnimalLeague (@AnimalLeague) January 30, 2014

RIP Colonel Meow. We are forever your minions. pic.twitter.com/Rvv0ldKAr3

— Chase Straight (@ChaseStraight) January 30, 2014

RIP Colonel Meow. We have loved you from afar, you beautiful beast.

— kimya dawson (@mrskimyadawson) January 30, 2014

Editor's Note: Do You Support Obamacare? Vote in Urgent National Poll

Related Stories:

• 2007 Ugliest Dog, Elwood the Chinese Crested Chihuahua, Dies
  
• Grumpy Cat Movie Deal: Feline 'Signs' With 'Jack and Jill' Producer
  
• Beagle-Boxer-Basset Wins World's Ugliest Dog