Known for its plump physique, Godzilla passed away on May 6 due to obesity-related health issues. The owner of the monkey has denied allegations of intentionally harming the animal.
Thai media reported that Godzilla – the monkey dubbed the fattest in the country – died from a series of weight-related illnesses.
Obese monkey Godzilla passes away at Crystal Pet Hospital in Thailand.
The animal died at the Crystal Pet veterinary hospital in Bangkok (Thailand) on May 6. Representatives from wildlife protection organizations accused the owner of deliberately causing the monkey’s death by allowing it to eat anything it wanted, according to Mirror.
At its heaviest, Godzilla weighed about 19 kg, nearly double the average weight of a healthy monkey.
Previously, this monkey became a tourist attraction when it appeared at a stall in a market. Godzilla’s owner, Mr. Manop Emsan, stated that the monkey was asked to leave the market when officials expressed concern about its health condition.
Godzilla was placed in a “weight loss camp” and was put on a strict diet. However, all efforts were in vain when the animal was reunited with its owner. Manop Emsan cared for the monkey in its final days.
Image of Godzilla wearing a tight t-shirt, which went viral on social media.
After Godzilla’s death, the treating physician Dr. Supasek Sarachitti said: “May Godzilla ascend to heaven. Many years ago, I warned that it was unlikely to live long due to multiple health issues, including the risk of heart disease. Godzilla’s owner cared for it daily and held it in its final moments.”
Godzilla lived only to the age of 6, while normal monkeys can live 20-30 years.
Dr. Sarachitti noted that primates can suffer from several weight-related diseases, including diabetes, thyroid disease, and Cushing’s syndrome. These illnesses ultimately led to Godzilla’s death.
Godzilla’s oversized body caused obesity-related illnesses.
The owner, Manop Emsan, claimed he treated the monkey well. Godzilla’s remains were cremated before being returned to the family.
Responding to allegations of intentionally harming the monkey, Mr. Manop Emsan added: “I am very sad that the monkey has passed away. Godzilla was like family to me. I saved it and treated it well. I did not give it food whenever it wanted.”
When authorities found Godzilla, the animal was chained and appeared to be bloated. Bystanders often fed the monkey sugary treats such as chocolate and sweet drinks.
According to MailOnline, Godzilla previously gained fame when a video of it being tied to a stall in Min Buri district, Bangkok, was posted on social media. Images of Godzilla wearing a tight t-shirt also circulated widely.
