As the British political landscape continues to evolve, one steadfast figure has remained a source of comfort and amusement: Larry the Cat. This beloved feline, who serves as the Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office, celebrates 15 years at 10 Downing Street this Sunday, having been an unyielding presence through the tenures of six different prime ministers. His tenure is not only remarkable for its length but also for the unique role he plays in the heart of British governance.
A Journey from Stray to Celebrity
Larry’s story began on the streets of London, where he was living as a stray before being adopted in 2011 by then-Prime Minister David Cameron. Since stepping through the iconic black door of 10 Downing Street, Larry has not just caught mice but also captured the hearts of the British public. Professor Philip Howell from Cambridge University notes, “Larry the cat’s approval ratings will be very high. Prime ministers tend not to hit those numbers. He represents stability, and that’s at a premium.”
His official duties include welcoming guests, overseeing security inspections, and ensuring the antique furniture is comfortable for his many naps. Larry’s charismatic presence has turned him into an unexpected star, often overshadowing world leaders during high-profile visits.
A Presence Amidst Political Change
Throughout his time in office, Larry has been a silent witness to the ebb and flow of British politics. He has interacted with numerous international dignitaries, often becoming a charming distraction during formal events. Freelance photographer Justin Ng remarks, “He’s great at photo-bombing. If there’s a foreign leader that’s about to visit, we know he’ll just come out at the exact moment that meet-and-greet is about to happen.” This ability to steal the limelight has made him a favourite among news photographers and the public alike.
Despite his seemingly aloof nature, Larry has shown a fondness for certain leaders, notably forming a bond with Barack Obama and delighting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a recent visit. In a memorable incident with former U.S. President Donald Trump, Larry made headlines by lounging beneath Trump’s armoured vehicle, ‘The Beast’, during an official photo op.
The Cat that Stole a Nation’s Heart
Though Larry’s prowess as a rodent catcher is often questioned, he has been spotted with the occasional mouse and even a pigeon—though the latter managed to escape unharmed. “He’s more of a lover than a fighter,” Ng comments, highlighting Larry’s penchant for relaxation over pest control.
Over the years, Larry has shared his home with various other pets belonging to prime ministers, including Boris Johnson’s Jack Russell, Dilyn, and Rishi Sunak’s Labrador, Nova. Current Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s cats, JoJo and Prince, reside in the private quarters, keeping Larry to the more public areas of Downing Street. Larry also had a famously turbulent relationship with Palmerston, the feline representative of the Foreign Office, until Palmerston’s retirement in 2020 and subsequent passing earlier this month.
The Unassailable Role of Larry the Cat
Now aged between 18 and 19, Larry may have slowed down, but he continues to patrol his territory, often found napping on a radiator by the No. 10 door. His enduring presence is a testament to the soft power of the feline form, and the idea of his removal would likely incite public outcry. Howell asserts, “A cat-hating PM, that seems to me to be political suicide.”
Larry’s status as an “official pet” sets him apart from the dogs often associated with American presidents. His unpredictable nature adds to his charm, as he embodies a whimsical yet steadfast presence in a world often characterised by political tension. Howell adds, “There is a certain kind of unruliness about Larry which I think would endear him to many.”
Why it Matters
Larry the Cat is more than just a pet; he has become a symbol of continuity and comfort in a rapidly changing political environment. As the UK grapples with various challenges, the presence of a feline friend at the heart of government serves to remind the public of the lighter side of political life. Larry’s ability to connect with people—both at home and abroad—highlights the enduring power of pets in bridging divides and fostering a sense of community. In a world where stability is often elusive, Larry the Cat remains a cherished emblem of British resilience and charm.
