The heartbroken owners of Southmead Hospital's much-love resident cat have confirmed that Kolo has sadly died. He became famous after regularly wondering into A&E to befriend staff and cheering up poorly patients.
The adorable tabby had a particular penchant for napping in filing baskets, stealing chairs and lounging on the reception desk countertop, where he enjoyed a great big fuss from the staff and patients during his nightly visits.
But his owner have now confirmed that Kolo was put to sleep. Posting on Facebook, they said: "We are all broken hearted to have to let you know that sadly Kolo was peacefully put to sleep this morning following significant and life-changing internal injuries.
READ MORE: Meet Kolo, the curious cat who spends his life chilling at Southmead Hospital's A&E department
"We want to thank everyone for the help, support and love given over the last 24hrs and are grateful that he was able to touch so many lives and bring so much comfort and joy to those that needed it.
"I (Kolo’s owners sister) have taken over admin of this page for the meantime to allow my sister and her family to grieve the loss of their little fur ball and ask that you post your messages or pictures on this post for now and refrain from private messages for the moment until they are strong enough to deal with it.
"He will always be remembered and we are all proud of how he supported the NHS and all of its wonderful staff. Much love little Kolocat, sleep well now, your shift is over."
Hundreds of people paid tribute to Bristol's famous cat. One person wrote: "So sorry to hear this, Kolo was adored by so many people (especially at Southmead!) I used to love seeing him hang around ED."
Another said: "RIP Kolo I’m heartbroken at this sad news. Will always remember you and the comfort and calmness you gave me."
A third wrote: "I'm so sorry for your loss, Kolo will be so missed by us all at NBT. He was a little legend."
Someone else shared their favourite memory of him. She said: "I’d been with my dad in A&E for many many hours I’d walked out of A&E at about 2am and saw a cat on one of the seats. Now I’m a cat person and I was convinced I was hallucinating after so many hours looking after my dad and trying to keep up with his ever-changing status.
"I actually asked a Porter if I was seeing correctly and was I fit to drive. His response was ‘oh yes that’s Kolo - he’s part of the team’! After a long stressful day he made my morning."
Ready to explore more? Follow Curiously on TikTok , Instagram , Facebook and Twitter .
Up Next:
