🔗 Share this article

Larry has observed six prime ministers arrive and depart, welcomed presidents and princes at the iconic entrance of No 10, and is soon set to become the longest continuous occupant since Pitt the Younger.

Lasting Figure in UK Politics

While the landscape of UK government has transformed significantly over the past 15 years, the feline has remained a reassuring steady presence. His enduring 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 definitely the person to meet at No 10," commented one political source, adding that he "has the freedom of the house."

Modest Beginnings

The tabby, whose formal designation is Chief Mouser of the Cabinet Office at 10 Downing Street, was adopted from an animal shelter to address a pest problem. His journey from homeless feline in south London to official resident represents a true humble beginnings story that outshines many political life stories.

Political Life

When strains ran strong during the coalition government, former Prime Minister the ex-PM was keen to dismiss any suggestions of animosity between him and the nation's new favorite cat. "The story is I don't love Larry - I certainly do," he announced during one government meeting.

Now a more established presence, Larry appears fully accustomed to the spotlight. Often seen on broadcast television lingering calmly by the entrance, his relaxed behavior in front of audiences has become somewhat troublesome for the Downing Street groundskeeper - he frequently goes to the main garden to relieve himself.

Official Duties

His government description details the 18-year-old tabby as spending his time greeting guests, inspecting security measures, and testing antique furniture for sleeping quality. His day-to-day duties include contemplating solutions to the mouse occupancy in the residence.

While the cat is the first to hold this particular position, cats have been accepted in the halls of government for at minimum a century. "Consistency is an vital part of the cat's appeal," explained one expert who has studied human-animal connections.

Diplomatic Presence

Larry possesses an sharp sense of diplomatic timing. "As soon as moment something occurs on the road, particularly an formal arrival, like routine, he'll be out the front," commented a Number 10 insider. "He adores the red carpet."

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

Personality and Preferences

"Theresa May notoriously hated him because she was a canine lover," explained one camera person who has witnessed several MPs attempting, and failing, to pet Larry.

When he isn't walking the pavements, Larry's frequent resting spots include the office equipment and desk organizers, but his preferred locations are on the ledges on both sides of the entrance.

Public Affection

The cat's appeal with the public remains undeniable. There are multiple online profiles devoted to the country's top mouser, including one with more than eight hundred sixty-eight thousand fans. Larry also receives letters, toys, and snacks from across the globe and has lately been featured in a book about government pets.

Complaints and Answer

As top feline, he inevitably receives his portion of complaints. One government analyst recently called Larry as "excessively fat and excessively lazy to actually do his duties," claiming him of being "support dependent."

In response, insiders close to the cat have issued a strong rebuke. They clarify that Larry is not publicly paid for, with Number 10 employees willingly covering his costs.