🔗 Share this article

Larry has seen half a dozen prime ministers arrive and depart, greeted presidents and princes at the famous entrance of Downing Street, and is shortly set to become the most enduring uninterrupted resident since historical figures.

Lasting Figure in UK Politics

While the landscape of UK government has transformed dramatically over the last 15 years, Larry has remained a reassuring steady presence. His lasting appeal - the kind that many politicians would covet - is now featured in a new documentary series exploring the nation's affection for cats.

"Larry is certainly the person to meet at No 10," stated one political source, adding that he "has the run of the house."

Humble Origins

Larry, whose formal title is Chief Mouser of the Cabinet Office at the Prime Minister's residence, was taken in from an animal shelter to address a rodent issue. His journey from homeless feline in south London to official inhabitant represents a true humble beginnings story that surpasses many official biographies.

Government Life

When strains ran strong during the coalition government, former leader David Cameron was eager to dispel any suggestions of animosity between him and the nation's new beloved feline. "The story is I dislike the cat - I do," he announced during one government meeting.

Now a more established figure, the cat appears completely accustomed to the spotlight. Often spotted on live TV lingering calmly by the entrance, his calm behavior in front of cameras has become somewhat problematic for the Number 10 groundskeeper - Larry frequently goes to the main flower patch to do his business.

Formal Duties

His government profile details the elderly tabby as passing his time greeting guests, inspecting security defenses, and testing historical pieces for napping quality. His day-to-day duties include considering solutions to the mouse presence in the house.

While Larry is the first to hold this specific title, cats have been welcomed in the halls of power for at minimum a century. "Consistency is an vital part of Larry's attraction," explained one academic who has researched human-animal connections.

Official Appearances

Larry has an sharp sense of official occasion. "The moment anything happens on the road, especially an formal arrival, like routine, he'll be outside the main," remarked a Downing Street source. "He adores the red carpet."

Former US President Barack Obama and Ukrainian leader Zelenskyy are among the international figures he has impressed. However, not all officials were equally enamored.

Personality and Likes

"The former PM famously disliked him because she was a dog person," said one camera person who has seen several MPs attempting, and failing, to pet the cat.

When not walking the pavements, Larry's frequent resting places include the printer and in-trays, but his preferred spots are on the window sills on either sides of the front door.

Popular Adoration

Larry's popularity with the public remains undeniable. There are multiple online profiles devoted to the country's chief cat, including one with more than eight hundred sixty-eight thousand followers. Larry also gets letters, playthings, and snacks from around the world and has lately been featured in a publication about government animals.

Complaints and Response

As chief feline, Larry naturally receives his share of complaints. One government commentator recently described Larry as "excessively fat and too idle to actually do his duties," claiming him of being "support dependent."

In response, insiders close to Larry have issued a stinging response. They explain that Larry is not government paid for, with Downing Street staff willingly covering his expenses.