Internet Cat Sensation 'Little Dude' Dies Before Finding Forever Home

COSTA MESA (CBSLA.com) — "Little Dude," a 33-pound cat who gained an online following after his owners gave him up for adoption, has died, according to Angela Jackson-Brunning, who had been fostering him at her Costa Mesa home.

Just two days ago, CBS2/KCAL9 reported the domestic short-hair feline was up for adoption.

His owners didn't want to give him up, but said their apartment building implemented a pet rent that they couldn't afford.

Brunning said the 10-year-old cat died Saturday of pneumonia-related complications.

She had created a Facebook page for the super-size kitty, which quickly garnered more than 2,000 followers and $600 in donations toward his medical expenses.