“Make a Statue of Him”: SA Mourns Death of Skabenga, KZN’s Most Spoiled Cat

“Make a Statue of Him”: SA Mourns Death of Skabenga, KZN’s Most Spoiled Cat

  • Former stray cat Skabenga, who made The Oyster Box hotel in KwaZulu-Natal his home, passed away peacefully yesterday
  • The hotel shared a video announcing the cat's passing while reminiscing on the good times they shared
  • Thousands of social media users, far and near, sent their condolences in the emotional post's comment section
Skabenga at The Oyster Box.
Skabenga, The Oyster Box's most popular and spoiled resident, passed away. Images: @skabengaoysterbox
Source: Instagram

Any loss, whether of a human or furry friend, can leave a profound impact on those who loved them.

The recent passing of Skabenga, a beloved and well-known feline that made its home at The Oyster Box, has left countless fans mourning his loss.

Farewell to the well-known Skabenga

According to the popular KwaZulu-Natal-based hotel's Facebook account, Skabenga (an isiZulu word loosely translating to 'hooligan') passed away peacefully yesterday at 19.

A portion of the post's caption read that for years, the cat, which was formally a stray, ruled the hotel and charmed local and international guests with his presence.

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"True to his name, he lived life on his terms, sneaking treats from unsuspecting guests, lounging where he pleased, and asserting his undeniable status as the real boss of The Oyster Box."

Take a look at The Oyster Box's tribute in the Facebook video below:

Internet shares their condolences

Several saddened social media users headed to the post's comment section to honour Skabenga and share their fondest memories about the celebrity cat.

Skabenga at The Oyster Box.
Skabenga lived a life of luxury at The Oyster Box, roaming around as he pleased. Image: @skabengaoysterbox
Source: Instagram

Yvonne Johnstone added in the comments:

"Farewell to a legend. Thank you to the staff of The Oyster Box for the love and care you gave Skabenga."

Charlotte Mayes said to the online community:

"So sorry to hear this. We met Skabenga in 2013 whilst on holiday from the UK. Animals take up a huge place in our hearts. Sorry for your loss."

Bente Unger told The Oyster Box:

"My heart is broken by this news. Please make a statue of him in his honour and memory."

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A heartbroken Lise Bester Fourie stated:

"RIP our dear Skabenga. You meant so much to everyone who looked forward to seeing your little face. Gosh, my heart is so sore."

Diane Kelway shared in the comments:

"We are coming to stay in June to celebrate my birthday, and I was so excited to meet him. So sad I will not meet the legend Skabenga! Rest easy."

Saresh Bhajan wrote to the popular cat:

"Rest well in kitty heaven. You will be missed. You are now walking on the streets of gold with your crown."

3 Other stories about cats

  • In another article, Briefly News reported about a woman's attempt to bathe her cat, which turned into pure comedy gold after her pet made a dramatic escape.
  • Last year, a university student's TikTok video went viral after she humorously attempted to catch a cat for dinner while waiting for her allowance to enter her bank account.
  • A domestic worker feeding a kitten milk from a bottle sparked an online debate. Some thought it was something the woman was forced to do, while others respected her gentleness.

Source: Briefly News

Authors:
Jade Rhode avatar

Jade Rhode (Human Interest Editor) Jade Rhode is a Human Interest Reporter who joined the Briefly News team in April 2024. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree from Rhodes University, majoring in Journalism and Media Studies (distinction) and Linguistics. Before pursuing her tertiary education, Jade worked as a freelance writer at Vannie Kaap News, telling the tales of the community. After her studies, Jade worked as an editorial intern for BONA Magazine, contributing to both print and online. To get in touch with Jade, please email jade.rhode@briefly.co.za