🔗 Share this article

The cat has witnessed half a dozen prime ministers come and go, greeted world leaders and princes at the iconic entrance of No 10, and is shortly set to become the most enduring continuous occupant since Pitt the Younger.

Lasting Presence in UK Government

While the scene of British politics has changed significantly over the past 15 years, the feline has remained a reassuring constant. His enduring appeal - the kind that many politicians would desire - is now featured in a upcoming TV program exploring the nation's affection for felines.

"Larry is definitely the person to encounter at Downing Street," stated one political source, adding that he "has the run of the residence."

Modest Beginnings

Larry, whose formal title 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 government resident represents a true humble beginnings story that surpasses many political life stories.

Government Existence

When tensions ran strong during the coalition government, former leader David Cameron was eager to dispel any suggestions of dislike between him and the country's new beloved cat. "This story is I don't love Larry - I do," he announced during one parliamentary session.

Now a increasingly recognized figure, Larry appears completely accustomed to the attention. Often spotted on live TV waiting patiently by the entrance, his calm demeanor in front of cameras has become somewhat problematic for the Downing Street gardener - Larry frequently visits the front flower patch to relieve himself.

Official Responsibilities

His government profile details the elderly cat as passing his days welcoming guests, checking security defenses, and testing antique furniture for napping quality. His regular duties include considering solutions to the rodent presence in the house.

While Larry is the initial to hold this specific position, felines have been welcomed in the corridors of power for at minimum a century. "Stability is an vital part of Larry's appeal," explained one academic who has studied human-animal relationships.

Diplomatic Presence

The cat possesses an acute sense of diplomatic timing. "As soon as minute something occurs on the street, particularly an formal visit, like routine, he'll be out the main," commented a Number 10 source. "Larry adores the red carpet."

Former US leader Barack Obama and Ukraine's President Zelenskyy are among the international figures he has impressed. However, not officials were equally enamored.

Character and Likes

"Theresa May notoriously hated him because she was a canine person," said one camera person who has seen several MPs attempting, and unsuccessfully, to stroke Larry.

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

Popular Adoration

The cat's appeal with the people remains unquestionable. There are various social media accounts devoted to the country's top mouser, including one with more than eight hundred sixty-eight thousand followers. Larry also gets fan mail, playthings, and treats from around the globe and has recently been included in a publication about political pets.

Complaints and Answer

As top feline, Larry inevitably gets his portion of complaints. One political commentator recently called him as "excessively fat and excessively idle to really do his job," claiming him of being "support dependent."

In reply, insiders near to the cat have issued a strong rebuke. They explain that he is not publicly paid for, with Number 10 staff voluntarily paying his costs.