Sad news from the Brooklyn Brewery today: their beloved cat Monster has passed away from kidney failure. He was 13. The ever-vigilant Monster was famous with locals and with tourists around the world, who delighted to discover him prowling about during their tours of the facility. The brewery, which even named one of its signature seasonal brews after the pet, issued this statement:

Dear Friends,

It is with tremendous sadness to inform you that Monster the Brooklyn Brewery cat passed away today from kidney failure at the age of 13.

It’s safe to say that few other cats have received more attention and love (and table food) from more people than Monster. When he wasn’t working the crowds, visitors to The Brewery would find Monster perched above the Company Store watching/napping over his guests, and glaring eagle-eyed at any and all intrusive dogs. In his tenure as Tasting Room Host, Monster has made fans from across the world, and has been featured in the media via Animal Planet, Time Out NY and numerous magazines and blogs. Monster quickly became one of the most photographed objects in The Brewery, and aside from possibly Brewmaster Oliver has posed with more Brooklyn fans than any other member of the team.

We encourage you to share your memories and pictures of Monster with us. It’s hard to imagine 79 North 11th Street without him.

Monster, you will be missed.

- The Brooklyn Brewery Family