After 22 years together, Gemma Collins is mourning the loss of her cat Twinkle

Collins, who is also the proud owner of a Boxer dog, took Twinkle to the vet after he became unwell over the weekend.

A final plea

But because of the current COVID-19 restrictions, Collins couldn't stay with her fur-baby.

So she handed Twinkle over to the vet with a final plea, "just keep my baby alive."

But Twinkle's condition worsened, and the vet decided to put her on a ventilator. Sadly, Twinkle passed away a few hours later.

Collins believes Twinkle may have died from COVID-19. But this has not been confirmed by a veterinary specialist.

And given that Twinkle was almost 25 years old - that's around 110 in human years! - several other factors could have contributed to his sad passing.

Collins was too upset to share the news at first. But she then posted a touching picture of Twinkle on Instagram, along with the following message:

"I rescued her 22 years ago. She passed last night. I'm absolutely heartbroken. I love you, Twinkle."

An incredible bond

Collins and Twinkle developed an incredible bond after spending 22 years together.

And although Collins is slowly coming to terms with a life without Twinkle, she believes they might meet again someday. In an interview with the Sun, Collins said:

"I do feel like I'll see Twinkle again in heaven. It gives me comfort."