Cala, the cat who went viral on social media for her video "I Go Meow" has died, leaving millions of netizens heartbroken.
The "devastating" news of Cala's passing was announced by Cala's fur mom Elizabeth (elizabethtoth23) on TikTok, which has 894,000 followers and 31 million likes.
Elizabeth shared in the video that she adopted the adorable Cala "thinking she was young with a full life ahead of her." She added that the celebrity feline was admitted to the emergency room.
"Tests revealed she was much older than initially thought by the shelter and her vet," she stated in the TikTok video.
Elizabeth continued that despite her condition, Cala "fought very hard" and they were optimistic that her fur baby would recover. However, Cala "was not improving."
"She ultimately passed away in my arms due to old age," she added.
Elizabeth went on to express gratitude to their social media followers for their support
"You all will allow her to live on forever. To never be forgotten for how special she is," she stated in the Thursday video, which now has 11 million views.
Go Meow Forever, Cala
Meanwhile, netizens express their grief at Cala's passing. Some paid tribute, sharing how the ginger cat impacted them.
"This cat brought me so much happiness hearing her sing when I was down. I am lost for words. I am so sorry for your loss," user montif_clare posted.
Danielle Marie Elizabeth commented: I'm in tears she brought so much joy to everyone who heard her "I go meow" I'm so sorry for ur loss
Meanwhile, User LimitlessQueen expressed shock, saying, "Wait, what?! She was so full of life, I don't understand"
Another user named TorieLane13 said she would roam her hallways saying "I go meow" forever.
How Long Do Cats Live?
Cat longevity depends on healthcare and living situations. According a Forbes article, cats typically live 13-17 years; however, some can survive into their late teens, twenties, or thirties.
A cat's lifespan depends on care. Regular exams, diagnosis, and treatment of common ailments can help cats live long and healthy lives. Pet insurance can cover these expenditures.
Breed affects lifetime. The average Maine Coon lifespan is 11-12 years. Obesity and outdoor lifestyles shorten cats' lives.
The average lifespan is 13-17 years for indoor cats. Westside Veterinary Center associate veterinarian Danielle Rutherford noted that "Outdoor cats are at risk more than indoor cats. He noted that such felines are in danger of "vehicular trauma, parasites, malnutrition, extreme weather, and animal abuse."
Outdoor cats live half as long as indoor cats due to risks and a lack of veterinary care. Cats that spend time indoors and outdoors are at risk for injuries and sickness, which can decrease their longevity, even with care at home.
Consequently, experts advise keeping cats indoors and providing regular care to extend their longevity.
Meanwhile, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), certain research suggests that pets may lower cortisol and blood pressure levels. Other research suggests having animal friends can lessen loneliness, boost social support, and boost happiness.
NIH added that it is undertaking large-scale studies to examine household pet diversity and health benefits.
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