TOKYO, Sept 11 — Maru, the Scottish Fold cat who captured hearts around the world with his box-loving antics, has died aged 18.
His owners announced on his YouTube channel, Mugumogu, that he “went to heaven” on September 6.
In recent weeks, Maru had grown unwell and lost his appetite. After being taken to an animal hospital, tests revealed he had a tumour. He was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, a common type of lung cancer, and deteriorated quickly.
“Maru was a laid-back and calm cat, but at the very last moment he made a mad dash...
“Thank you for supporting Maru until the end,” his owners wrote in a statement.
Maru rose to fame in 2008 when his ninth video — clips of him diving into cardboard boxes, his legs sticking comically out — went viral.
By 2016, he had secured a Guinness World Record for “most views for an animal on YouTube,” with more than 325 million views.
Though other pets eventually overtook his record, his devoted fanbase never wavered, tuning in for his serene naps, birthday celebrations, and endless experiments with spaces far too small for him.
Fans across the globe expressed their grief online.
“He brought a lot of happiness to so many people around the world, and I’m sure even more to his owner. Rest in peace,” wrote one.
Another admitted, “It seems so crazy that reading this about a cat I’ve never met is making me cry.”
Maru marked his 18th birthday just a few months ago, still embodying the spirit of his name, which means “Round” in Japanese.
From a household pet to an internet icon, his legacy is a gentle reminder of how simple joy can ripple far beyond one living room.
Rest in peace, Maru. Forever in a box, forever in our hearts.
