🔗 Share this article

Larry has witnessed half a dozen government leaders come and go, welcomed world leaders and royalty at the iconic entrance of No 10, and is soon set to become the longest uninterrupted resident since Pitt the Younger.

Enduring Presence in British Government

While the scene of UK government has changed dramatically over the past 15 years, Larry has remained a reassuring constant. His lasting appeal - the kind that many leaders would covet - is now showcased in a upcoming TV program exploring the country's love for felines.

"Larry is definitely the character to meet at No 10," stated one political source, adding that he "enjoys the run of the residence."

Modest Origins

The tabby, 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 pest issue. His journey from stray feline in south London to official inhabitant represents a true humble beginnings story that surpasses many political life stories.

Government Life

When strains ran high during the coalition government, former leader David Cameron was keen to dispel any rumors of animosity between him and the country's new beloved feline. "This rumor is I dislike Larry - I certainly do," he announced during one parliamentary session.

Now a increasingly established presence, the cat appears fully adjusted to the attention. Often spotted on broadcast TV waiting patiently by the entrance, his relaxed behavior in front of audiences has become somewhat problematic for the Number 10 gardener - Larry frequently goes to the front garden to relieve himself.

Official Duties

His official profile describes the 18-year-old cat as passing his time welcoming guests, checking security defenses, and testing antique furniture for sleeping comfort. His day-to-day duties include considering answers to the rodent presence in the house.

While the cat is the initial to hold this particular title, felines have been welcomed in the halls of power for at least a century. "Stability is an vital part of Larry's appeal," noted one expert who has studied human-animal connections.

Official Appearances

The cat possesses an acute sense of diplomatic occasion. "The moment something happens on the street, particularly an formal arrival, like routine, he'll be outside the main," remarked a Number 10 insider. "Larry adores the attention."

Former American leader the former president and Ukraine's President Zelenskyy are among the international figures he has charmed. However, not leaders were similarly enamored.

Personality and Likes

"The former PM famously hated him because she was a dog lover," explained one photographer who has seen several MPs trying, and failing, to stroke the cat.

When not treading the sidewalks, Larry's regular sleeping places include the office equipment and in-trays, but his preferred locations are on the window sills on both sides of the front door.

Popular Adoration

The cat's popularity with the public remains undeniable. There are multiple online profiles devoted to the country's chief cat, including one with over eight hundred sixty-eight thousand followers. He also gets letters, toys, and treats from across the world and has lately been included in a publication about government pets.

Complaints and Response

As top cat, he inevitably receives his share of complaints. One government commentator recently described Larry as "excessively fat and excessively lazy to really do his job," accusing him of being "support reliant."

In reply, sources near to the cat have issued a stinging response. They explain that Larry is not at all publicly funded, with Downing Street employees willingly paying his costs.