Instagram | @iamlilbub

Instagram Star And Feline Inspiration Lil Bub Has Passed Away

Lil Bub, the cat who became a viral sensation for her big eyes and constant tongue-out expression, has passed away at the age of 8.

Bub's owner, Mike Bridavsky, made the announcement to the cat's 2.3 million Instagram followers in an emotional post.

Instagram | @iamlilbub

As he explained alongside both the first and last pics he had with Bub, the cat had long had health issues, including a "persistent and aggressive bone infection," but he and his family were still stunned by her passing.

"On the morning of Sunday, December 1st 2019 we lost the purest, kindest and most magical living force on our planet," he wrote. "BUB was cheerful and full of love laying in our bed with us Saturday night, but unexpectedly passed away peacefully in her sleep."

Although the family is obviously grieving the loss of their beloved companion, they're trying to look as brightly on Bub's life as they can.

Instagram | @iamlilbub

"I truly believe that she willingly made the decision to leave her failing body so that our family would not have to make that difficult decision ourselves," Bridavsky wrote.

"She taught me everything that I know about unconditional love, she brought my wife Stacy and I together, she's the reason we have our beautiful children Rosco and Lula, and she has been a constant source of warmth and love in our lives for the past 8 years. To say that our family is devastated would be an understatement."

They're also keeping firmly in mind that Bub's life had a long reach.

Instagram | @iamlilbub

"But most importantly, BUB has made a huge difference in the world of animal welfare, and in the lives of millions of people worldwide," Bridavsky wrote. "She has literally saved thousands of lives (both pets and humans), she started the first national fund for special needs pets, she was the subject of groundbreaking genetic and biological research, she's helped raise over $700,000 for animals in need, and has spread a message of determination, positivity, and perseverance to people all over the world."

"And even though my heart is absolutely crushed by her graceful departure from planet Earth, I know that her spirit, magic, and overwhelming energy are still with us, reminding us every day to be better."

Instagram | @iamlilbub

"Dearest BUB, I will never forget your generosity, your limitless supply of love, or your uncanny ability to bring so much magic and joy to the world," he concluded. "I am forever honored and humbled that you chose me as your caretaker."

h/t: Instagram | @iamlilbub