Florida releases statement after cat-like skeleton creates stir among LSU fans

Following Florida’s 40-14 rout against Missouri, an image began to make its way around social media and stirred up some emotions among LSU fans.

The photo depicted a pair of Gators players holding what is now being referred to as the “Halloween Cat,” which is a skeletal cat with purple and gold beads.

The "Halloween Cat" referenced is shown here. Some sort of skeleton cat with purple and gold Mardi Gras beads that #UF players had. pic.twitter.com/XMU0zAHBXH

— Shea Dixon (@Sheadixon) October 16, 2016

This, of course, angered some of the LSU faithful, who believed it was done in regards to the recent passing of Mike VI, the team’s mascot who recently succumbed to cancer.

If it's a shot at Mike The Tiger. I really hope the @lsufootball boys see this one. #November19th https://t.co/SQCuJXEZzz

— Chance Hester (@CoachHesterSMHS) October 16, 2016

@SportsCenter Cat skeleton with purple n gold beads just after our beloved Mike the Tiger just passed. Just like their AD. Keepin it classy. pic.twitter.com/wDjkohbFPc

— Chris Womack (@Chromack) October 16, 2016

On Sunday, the Gators’ official football Twitter account stated that the figure did not belong to anyone within the program and was thrown onto the field by a fan after the game. Another tweet by Reddit’s college football account seems to confirm this claim.

The Halloween cat seen on the field after last nights game was thrown onto the field by a fan. It has no significance within our program.

— Gators Football (@GatorsFB) October 16, 2016

So the cat skeleton Florida players were photographed with apparently belonged to a fan in the audience, as noted in the 4th quarter: pic.twitter.com/FVLKkVXot9

— RedditCFB (@RedditCFB) October 16, 2016

Before this incident, tensions between the two schools had already risen after lengthy discussions to reschedule the Florida-LSU game for Nov. 19. When the Gators and the Tigers meet on the field, it is sure to be intense.