Heartbreaking news arrived from New Zealand on Wednesday morning that Paddles, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's pet, and the country's most beloved cat, had passed away after she was run over by a car in Auckland the day before.
In her passionate Facebook message, Ardern confirmed the sad loss of the "Prime Moggy" and thanked the SPCA, where the kitty was adopted.
The message prompted many to donate to the charity organization. According to an SPCA spokesperson, mourners across New Zealand have given "several donations in memory of Paddles." "These donations will go towards helping rescue other kittens like Paddles," the SPCA member told a local news portal.
Paddles' death has left the nation sobbing and heartbroken. Many internet users took to Twitter and Facebook to share their feelings and express condolences to the prime minister.
I'm honestly gutted about the news. Can't quite believe it. Day of mourning. pic.twitter.com/iIwihWby0d
— Gary (@GaryTweeted) 7 ноября 2017 г.
@FirstCatofNZ Host of tears shed for this little cat. Sincere condolences to her Firstfamily (& staff). RIP Paddles #prrpforever
— Mary Anderson (@Mary73Mary) 8 ноября 2017 г.
Some people noted that the lovely feline had been a sight for many sore eyes and will be strongly missed.
🙁😪
— Marko 🌈 (@AusLoafer) 7 ноября 2017 г.
The world isn't the greatest place right now but your account brought joy to many.
Thank you for the effort.
Noooooooooo! @FirstCatofNZ has been my only ray of sunshine on my twitter feed! Paddles please say Hi to Eddie when you get there & send our love. He will welcome you with open paws!
— AC101 (@AC101) 8 ноября 2017 г.
It's amazing how a cat brought all of us together in a time that's so divisive. Thanks for that, Paddles. May we remember that lesson. @FirstCatofNZ #Prrpforever
— Kristin Boes (@catladyfurever) 8 ноября 2017 г.
The adorable polydactyl feline — a cat with "thumbs" — was introduced on Twitter in late October and amassed about 10,000 fans in just one week. Interestingly, Ardern claimed she has no idea who had created the account and posted on behalf of her pet.
