London, United Kingdom – Larry, the resident cat at 10 Downing Street, is celebrating a milestone anniversary as Britain’s Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office. , marked fifteen years since Larry took up residence at the Prime Minister’s official home, a period during which he has served under six different Prime Ministers.
The gray-and-white tabby’s journey from a stray adopted from Battersea Dogs & Cats Home to a fixture of British political life has captivated the public and media alike. His official duties, as outlined by the UK government, include “greeting guests to the house, inspecting security defenses and testing antique furniture for napping quality.” However, his presence has become symbolic, representing a degree of stability in a period of frequent political change.
“Larry the cat’s approval ratings will be very high,” observed Philip Howell, a professor at Cambridge University specializing in human-animal relations. “And prime ministers tend not to hit those numbers.” Howell added that Larry represents “stability, and that’s at a premium.”
Larry’s arrival at Downing Street in , under then-Prime Minister David Cameron, marked the formalization of a tradition dating back centuries. While cats have been employed by the British government as mousers since at least the 16th century – with evidence suggesting Cardinal Thomas Wolsey kept a cat during his time as Lord Chancellor – Larry was the first to be officially designated Chief Mouser.
The role, however, is not without its playful political undertones. The British press often portrays Larry as an active participant in the internal workings of government, a lighthearted counterpoint to the often-serious nature of political life. This perception is reflected in merchandise featuring Larry with slogans like “Larry has my vote.”
Beyond his official duties, Larry has become a favorite subject for photographers, frequently appearing in images alongside visiting dignitaries. Justin Ng, a freelance photographer familiar with Larry’s habits, noted the cat’s knack for “photo-bombing.” “If there’s a foreign leader that’s about to visit then we know he’ll just come out at the exact moment that meet-and-greet is about to happen,” Ng said.
His interactions with world leaders have been varied. He reportedly “sympathized” with former U.S. President Barack Obama and even managed to elicit a smile from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a visit in . During Donald Trump’s visit, Larry was photographed resting under the official car.
Despite his public persona, Larry’s temperament is described as reserved, particularly towards people. Ng described him as “more loving than a fighter,” emphasizing his talent for “relaxing and showing that he’s very tranquil.”
Larry’s domestic life at Downing Street is also nuanced. He maintains a distance from the cats of current Prime Minister Keir Starmer, JoJo and Prince, who reside in the private quarters. His relationship with Dilyn, the Jack Russell terrier of former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, was also reportedly not amicable.
At an estimated age of 18 – equivalent to 77 human years – Larry continues to fulfill his duties, though the government notes his efforts to address a rodent infestation are still “in phase of tactical planning.” He remains a constant presence at 10 Downing Street, a symbol of continuity in a constantly shifting political landscape. The government also notes that Larry receives daily gifts from the British public, a testament to his enduring popularity.
Larry’s fifteen-year tenure underscores the unique role animals can play in public life, offering a sense of stability and lightheartedness amidst the complexities of governance. As the UK navigates ongoing political and economic challenges, Larry’s continued presence serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal of a well-placed feline in the heart of power.
