WASHINGTON (CNN) – Socks, who reigned as first cat in former President Clinton’s White House, was put to sleep on Friday morning.
After suffering from mouth cancer, Socks was euthanized at Three Notch Veterinary Clinic in Hollywood, Maryland. Betty Currie, Clinton’s former personal secretary, had been taking care of the cat since her boss left the White House.
Socks was born in 1989 and would have turned 20 this spring.
Currie told the Southern Maryland News that Socks hadn’t eaten for two days and that she thought his condition was deteriorating. Socks was under the care of Dr. David Langford at the clinic.
"Socks brought much happiness to Chelsea and us over the years, and enjoyment to kids and cat lovers everywhere," the Clintons said in a statement. "We're grateful for those memories, and we especially want to thank our good friend, Betty Currie, for taking such loving care of Socks for so many years."
Socks had to share the stage as first pet in the White House after the Clintons adopted Buddy, a Labrador retriever.
An 11-year-old Chelsea Clinton adopted Socks in 1991 after she saw the stray kitten at her piano teacher’s home in Little Rock, Arkansas. The cat moved into the governor’s mansion with the family and later to the White House.
From CNN Politics
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Really sorry to hear that.
we put our 15 year old cat down two weeks ago, it's very hard to lose a pet
......long live the memory of Socks!
although, i bet it was animal-murderer Sarah Palin who's ultimately behind this.
i am so sorry for the death of socks,the animal lovers enjoyed all the stories of the clintons animals.
Rest in peace Mr. Socks. I'm sorry to hear your owners did'nt take you home with them after they left the White House.
Almost 20 years old? That's an amazing age for a cat to live to. Socks had some darn fine care to live so long. Kudos to Betty Currie!
Oh my...
What a sad sad day in American history...
My heartfelt condolences to Betty Currie and the Clinton family. Thank you for sharing Socks with all of us. Blessings!
losing a pet is always a sad story..but I bet that will NOT stop a far righter from posting here saying something like.....
"WHO CARES"
"BIG DEAL"
"SO WHAT"
they just have to post negative stuff here because I think it's therepy for them to deal with their loss. I'm sorry to hear about Socks but just get ready for the insensitive posts that are sure to follow.
I cried for two days when my cat died. It's sad. Glad Socks had a long happy life – he will be missed.
Best Of Luck To The Clintons During This Rough And Tragic Time..I Hope She Can Remain Focused On The Priorities She Has As Secretary Of State And Not Let The Death Of Her Beloved Cat Socks Interfere With Her Emotions
Darn, I hate when family pets die.
I love you Hillary! (and Bill)
why is this newsworthy?
RIP Socks.
Oh come the heck on SAS, I don't like Governor Palin any more than you apparently do, but that comment was uncalled for.
@ Sad About Socks...
Sarah Palin??? Really??? Looks like she has turned into the the new Georgie Bush for the liberals...the one they blame everything and anything on. RIDICULOUS!!!!
My sympathies are with Betty and the Clintons. May Socks rest in peace. 20 years means Socks was well taken care of.
I am sorry for the Clintons' loss. I know that Socks was a beloved member of the family. Companion animal loss is hard.
To "Sad about Sox"
I feel bad about Socks...too bad you couldn't take his place.
=(
Aww. Rest in peace, Socks. I'm sure Betty was good to you.
Losing a pet cat IS losing your child. My cat died 4 months ago and not a day goes by where I don't think of her. There is a place somewhere out there where kitties like Socks and my cat Splitter can be in paradise. Rest in peace honey.
Bill Clinton needs not to be making news if that is what he loves most!
Sox is better off. I just learned on Tuesday that my cat has cancer in the mouth. He is 19 years old. I have been given pain medication for him, but have been told he should be put to sleep. I am trying to keep him with me for another week, but am keeping an eye on him. It will be soon. Probably next week. I am not looking forward to it. He is my buddy!
RIP Socks.I would rather lose a republican than a pet,anyones pet,even TCM or RJ.