Neuty, the domesticated nutria who became a social media sensation after his owners fought state authorities to keep him, has died of cancer. The rodent, known for his calm demeanor and appearances on cable news, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, his owners announced on Instagram.
Denny and Myra Lacoste of Metairie, Louisiana, found Neuty as a days-old baby on Christmas Eve 2020, after his siblings were killed by a car. They raised him on pet milk and potty-trained him, turning the invasive species animal into a beloved family member. When Louisiana's wildlife authorities tried to confiscate Neuty, a public outcry and a Change.org petition with over 17,000 signatures forced them to grant permission for the Lacostes to keep him.
Neuty's fame grew, leading to an appearance on Tucker Carlson's Fox News show in April 2023, where Carlson praised the Lacostes for their bravery. Neuty later attended local schools, fairs and festivals, often drawing crowds who petted him. However, in March, the Lacostes revealed he had an inoperable cancerous tumour. He underwent radiation treatment, but his condition deteriorated.
On Friday, the Lacostes noticed a change in his personality. He enjoyed a milk bone treat on Saturday and died about an hour later. The Lacostes expressed their devastation, saying Neuty brought them joy and laughter every day for five and a half years. Condolences poured in from followers and local businesses, including Urban South brewery, which said it always loved having Neuty.
