🔗 Share this article

Larry has observed half a dozen government leaders arrive and depart, greeted presidents and princes at the famous entrance of No 10, and is shortly set to become the most enduring uninterrupted occupant since Pitt the Younger.

Enduring Presence in British Government

While the scene of British politics has transformed significantly over the last decade and a half, the feline has remained a reassuring steady presence. His enduring popularity - the kind that many leaders would covet - is now featured in a upcoming documentary series exploring the country's love for felines.

"The cat is certainly the character to meet at No 10," commented one Westminster source, adding that he "enjoys the freedom of the house."

Modest Origins

Larry, whose formal designation is Head Cat of the Cabinet Office at 10 Downing Street, was taken in from an animal shelter to address a pest issue. His journey from homeless cat in Wandsworth to official resident represents a true rags to riches story that surpasses many political life stories.

Political Life

When strains ran strong during the coalition government, former Prime Minister David Cameron was keen to dismiss any rumors of dislike between him and the nation's new beloved feline. "The rumor is I don't love the cat - I do," he announced during one parliamentary session.

Now a more recognized figure, the cat appears fully accustomed to the spotlight. Often seen on live television waiting patiently by the front door, his calm demeanor in front of audiences has become somewhat problematic for the Number 10 groundskeeper - he frequently goes to the main garden to do his business.

Formal Duties

His government description describes the elderly cat as passing his days welcoming guests, checking security defenses, and testing historical pieces for sleeping quality. His day-to-day responsibilities include considering answers to the mouse occupancy in the residence.

While Larry is the initial to hold this specific position, cats have been welcomed in the corridors of power for at least a hundred years. "Consistency is an essential part of the cat's appeal," explained one expert who has researched people-pet relationships.

Official Presence

Larry has an sharp sense of diplomatic occasion. "The minute anything happens on the road, particularly an formal arrival, like clockwork, he'll be out the main," remarked a Number 10 source. "He loves the red carpet."

Former American President the former president and Ukraine's President Zelenskyy are among the world leaders he has impressed. However, not all leaders were equally fond.

Character and Preferences

"Theresa May famously disliked him because she was a dog lover," said one camera person who has seen several politicians attempting, and failing, to pet Larry.

When he isn't walking the sidewalks, his frequent sleeping places include the office equipment and in-trays, but his preferred locations are on the window sills on both side of the entrance.

Public Adoration

Larry's appeal with the people remains undeniable. There are various online profiles devoted to the country's chief mouser, including one with more than 868,000 followers. He also receives fan mail, toys, and snacks from around the globe and has recently been featured in a book about political pets.

Complaints and Answer

As chief feline, he inevitably receives his portion of complaints. One government analyst recently called him as "too fat and excessively idle to really do his job," claiming him of being "support dependent."

In response, sources close to the cat have released a stinging rebuke. They explain that Larry is not at all publicly funded, with Number 10 staff willingly paying his costs.