🔗 Share this article

The cat has witnessed six government leaders come and go, welcomed presidents and royalty at the iconic entrance of No 10, and is shortly set to become the most enduring uninterrupted resident since historical figures.

Enduring Presence in British Government

While the scene of British politics has transformed dramatically over the last decade and a half, the feline has remained a comforting constant. His lasting popularity - the kind that many leaders would covet - is now featured in a new TV program exploring the country's affection for cats.

"Larry is definitely the person to encounter at Downing Street," stated one Westminster insider, adding that he "has the freedom of the residence."

Humble Beginnings

Larry, whose formal designation is Chief Mouser of the Government at the Prime Minister's residence, was taken in from an animal shelter to tackle a pest issue. His journey from homeless cat in Wandsworth to official resident represents a true humble beginnings story that surpasses many official life stories.

Government Life

When strains ran high during the coalition government, former Prime Minister the ex-PM was eager to dispel any rumors of dislike between him and the country's new beloved cat. "The story is I don't love Larry - I certainly do," he declared during one government meeting.

Now a more established presence, the cat appears fully adjusted to the spotlight. Often spotted on broadcast television waiting patiently by the entrance, his relaxed demeanor in front of cameras has become rather problematic for the Number 10 groundskeeper - Larry frequently goes to the main garden to do his business.

Official Responsibilities

His official description details the 18-year-old tabby as passing his time greeting guests, checking security measures, and testing historical furniture for sleeping comfort. His day-to-day duties include considering answers to the rodent presence in the residence.

While the cat is the initial to hold this specific title, felines have been welcomed in the halls of power for at least a century. "Stability is an essential part of Larry's appeal," noted one academic who has studied people-pet connections.

Official Appearances

The cat has an acute sense of official occasion. "As soon as minute something occurs on the street, particularly an official arrival, like clockwork, he'll be out the main," commented a Downing Street insider. "Larry loves the attention."

Ex- American leader the former president and Ukraine's leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy are among the world figures he has impressed. However, not all officials were similarly enamored.

Personality and Likes

"Theresa May famously disliked him because she was a canine person," said one camera person who has witnessed several politicians trying, and unsuccessfully, to pet the cat.

When he isn't walking the pavements, Larry's frequent sleeping spots include the office equipment and in-trays, but his favorite spots are on the ledges on either side of the entrance.

Public Adoration

The cat's appeal with the people remains unquestionable. There are various social media profiles devoted to the country's chief mouser, including one with over 868,000 followers. Larry also receives letters, toys, and snacks from around the world and has lately been featured in a book about government pets.

Criticism and Response

As top feline, Larry inevitably gets his portion of criticism. One political analyst recently described him as "too overweight and excessively lazy to really do his duties," accusing him of being "support reliant."

In response, insiders close to the cat have issued a strong rebuke. They explain that he is not publicly funded, with Downing Street staff willingly paying his expenses.