🔗 Share this article

Larry has seen six government leaders arrive and depart, greeted presidents and royalty at the iconic black door of Downing Street, and is shortly set to become the longest continuous resident since historical figures.

Lasting Presence in British Politics

While the scene of British politics has changed significantly over the last decade and a half, Larry has remained a reassuring constant. His enduring appeal - the kind that many politicians would desire - is now showcased in a new documentary series exploring the country's love for felines.

"Larry is certainly the person to encounter at Downing Street," commented one political source, adding that he "enjoys the run of the house."

Modest Origins

Larry, whose formal designation is Chief Mouser of the Cabinet Office at 10 Downing Street, was taken in from an animal shelter to tackle a pest issue. His journey from stray cat in Wandsworth to official resident represents a true rags to riches story that outshines many political biographies.

Political Existence

When strains ran high during the political partnership, former leader David Cameron was eager to dispel any rumors of dislike between him and the country's new favorite cat. "The rumor is I dislike the cat - I do," he declared during one government meeting.

Now a increasingly recognized presence, Larry appears fully adjusted to the spotlight. Often spotted on broadcast TV lingering calmly by the front door, his calm behavior in front of audiences has become rather troublesome for the Number 10 groundskeeper - Larry frequently goes to the main flower patch to relieve himself.

Formal Duties

His government profile details the 18-year-old cat as spending his days welcoming guests, inspecting protection measures, and evaluating historical pieces for napping comfort. His day-to-day duties include considering answers to the mouse presence in the residence.

While Larry is the initial to hold this specific position, cats have been welcomed in the halls of government for at least a century. "Consistency is an essential part of the cat's attraction," noted one expert who has studied human-animal connections.

Diplomatic Presence

The cat possesses an acute sense of diplomatic timing. "The minute something occurs on the street, particularly an formal visit, like clockwork, he'll be out the main," commented a Downing Street source. "He adores the red carpet."

Ex- US leader the former president and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy are among the international leaders he has impressed. However, not all officials were similarly enamored.

Character and Likes

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

When not treading the sidewalks, Larry's frequent resting spots include the office equipment and in-trays, but his favorite spots are on the ledges on both sides of the front door.

Public Affection

Larry's popularity with the public remains unquestionable. There are multiple online profiles dedicated to the nation's chief cat, including one with more than 868,000 followers. He also receives fan mail, toys, and snacks from across the globe and has lately been included in a book about political animals.

Complaints and Response

As chief cat, he naturally gets his portion of criticism. One government analyst recently called him as "excessively overweight and excessively lazy to actually perform his duties," claiming him of being "support dependent."

In response, sources near to the cat have released a strong rebuke. They clarify that he is not government funded, with Downing Street employees voluntarily covering his expenses.