🔗 Share this article

Larry has witnessed half a dozen government leaders arrive and depart, greeted world leaders and princes at the iconic black door of Downing Street, and is soon set to become the longest uninterrupted resident since Pitt the Younger.

Enduring Presence in UK Government

While the scene of British politics has transformed dramatically over the past 15 years, the feline has remained a reassuring constant. His lasting popularity - the kind that many leaders would covet - is now showcased in a upcoming documentary series exploring the country's love for felines.

"The cat is certainly the character to encounter at Downing Street," stated one Westminster insider, adding that he "has the freedom of the house."

Modest Beginnings

The tabby, whose official designation is Head Cat of the Cabinet Office at 10 Downing Street, was adopted from an rescue center to tackle a pest problem. His journey from homeless cat in Wandsworth to government resident represents a true rags to riches story that surpasses many political life stories.

Political Existence

When tensions ran strong during the coalition government, former Prime Minister the ex-PM was keen to dispel any suggestions of animosity between him and the nation's new favorite feline. "The story is I dislike the cat - I certainly do," he declared during one parliamentary session.

Now a more established presence, the cat appears fully adjusted to the spotlight. Often spotted on broadcast television waiting patiently by the front door, his calm behavior in front of audiences has become rather troublesome for the Downing Street groundskeeper - he frequently goes to the main flower patch to do his business.

Formal Duties

His government profile describes the 18-year-old tabby as passing his days greeting guests, checking security measures, and evaluating historical pieces for sleeping comfort. His regular duties include contemplating answers to the rodent presence in the house.

While the cat is the initial to hold this specific position, felines have been accepted in the halls of government for at least a hundred years. "Stability is an vital part of the cat's appeal," explained one expert who has researched human-animal connections.

Diplomatic Presence

Larry has an acute sense of official occasion. "The minute something occurs on the street, particularly an official arrival, like clockwork, he'll be out the front," remarked a Downing Street source. "He adores the red carpet."

Ex- US President the former president and Ukraine's President Zelenskyy are among the world leaders he has charmed. However, not all officials were similarly fond.

Character and Preferences

"The former PM notoriously hated him because she was a canine person," said one camera person who has seen several politicians trying, and failing, to pet the cat.

When he isn't walking the sidewalks, Larry's frequent sleeping places include the printer and in-trays, but his preferred spots are on the ledges on either sides of the front door.

Public Affection

Larry's popularity with the public remains unquestionable. There are multiple social media accounts dedicated to the country's top mouser, including one with more than 868,000 fans. Larry also receives letters, playthings, and treats from around the globe and has lately been featured in a publication about political pets.

Complaints and Response

As top cat, he inevitably receives his share of complaints. One political commentator recently described Larry as "too fat and excessively lazy to really do his job," accusing him of being "support reliant."

In reply, sources close to Larry have issued a strong response. They explain that Larry is not government funded, with Downing Street staff willingly covering his expenses.