For fifteen years, a grey and white tabby cat has held a unique position in the heart of British political life. Larry, as he’s known, isn’t a policymaker or a parliamentarian, but the Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office at 10 Downing Street. He’s become a fixture outside the Prime Minister’s residence, a furry face of stability that has outlasted six prime ministers – David Cameron, Theresa May, Boris Johnson, Liz Truss, Rishi Sunak, and now Keir Starmer – and charmed the public along the way. The feline official marked the milestone on February 15th, continuing a tradition of rodent control that dates back centuries.
Larry’s story began not in a palace, but as a stray. He was taken in by Battersea Dogs & Cats Home around January 2007, and later adopted in 2011 by Downing Street staff, initially with the intention of being a companion for then-Prime Minister David Cameron’s children. Quickly, however, his skills were recognized. Described by sources as a “good ratter” with a strong hunting instinct, Larry was officially appointed to his current role, becoming the first cat to receive the title of Chief Mouser, according to the Downing Street website. The appointment proved popular, with Battersea reporting a 15% increase in cat adoptions following the publicity surrounding Larry’s arrival.
A Job Description Beyond Mouse-Catching
While Larry’s primary responsibility is pest control, his duties extend beyond simply keeping the mice at bay. According to the official 10 Downing Street website, the Chief Mouser is also responsible for “greeting guests to the house, inspecting security defences and testing antique furniture for napping quality,” alongside the ongoing task of “contemplating a solution to the mouse occupancy of the house.” This playful description highlights the symbolic role Larry plays, offering a touch of levity and normalcy within the serious world of British politics.
Larry enjoys a degree of freedom unusual for a government employee. He is permitted to roam the grounds of 10 Downing Street, often seen lounging on window sills, patrolling the yard, and being ushered in and out of the front door by security personnel. This accessibility has made him a favorite subject for the press, and his appearances frequently feature in news coverage, particularly when a new Prime Minister takes office. On July 5, 2024, Larry was photographed walking past reporters as Keir Starmer began his tenure.
A Symbol of Stability in Turbulent Times
The longevity of Larry’s service has contributed significantly to his popularity. As Philip Howell, a professor who studies the history of human-animal relations, told the Associated Press, “He represents stability, and that’s at a premium.” In a period marked by political upheaval and frequent changes in leadership, Larry has remained a constant presence, offering a sense of continuity to the public. He’s been photographed with visiting dignitaries, including former U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and has even been known to engage in playful skirmishes with pigeons, foxes, and other cats, as documented by the Associated Press.
Larry isn’t alone in the world of political pets. In Mexico, nineteen feral cats residing around the National Palace have been granted special status, becoming symbols of the presidential residence. Similarly, in 2022, First Lady Jill Biden and President Joe Biden welcomed a cat named Willow to the White House. Even former Bank of Canada Governor Mark Carney shared photos of his cat, Nico, on Facebook, demonstrating a global trend of political figures embracing animal companionship.
As Larry enters his eighteenth or nineteenth year – his exact birthdate remains unknown – he continues to fulfill his duties at 10 Downing Street. His presence serves as a reminder that even in the most serious of environments, there is always room for a little bit of feline charm. The Chief Mouser’s next official appearance is likely to be during upcoming state visits, where he will undoubtedly greet guests and continue his ongoing assessment of security defenses and napping opportunities.
The story of Larry the cat is a testament to the enduring appeal of animals and their ability to provide a sense of comfort and continuity in a changing world. Share your thoughts on Larry’s remarkable career in the comments below.
