🔗 Share this article A Stray Cat to Celebrity Inhabitant: This Remarkable Tale of Downing Street's Chief Mouser The cat has seen half a dozen prime ministers come and go, greeted world leaders and royalty at the famous entrance of No 10, and is soon set to become the longest continuous resident since Pitt the Younger. Enduring Presence in British Politics While the scene of UK government has transformed significantly over the last decade and a half, Larry has remained a comforting steady presence. His enduring appeal - the kind that many leaders would covet - is now showcased in a new TV program exploring the country's affection for felines. "The cat is definitely the character to meet at Downing Street," stated one political source, adding that he "has the run of the house." Modest Origins Larry, whose official title is Chief Mouser of the Government at the Prime Minister's residence, was taken in from an animal shelter to address a rodent issue. His journey from homeless cat in Wandsworth to official inhabitant represents a true humble beginnings story that outshines many political biographies. Political Life When tensions ran high during the political partnership, former Prime Minister the ex-PM was eager to dispel any rumors of dislike between him and the nation's new beloved cat. "This story is I don't love Larry - I do," he declared during one parliamentary session. Now a more established figure, the cat appears fully adjusted to the attention. Often seen on live TV lingering calmly by the entrance, his relaxed behavior in front of audiences has become somewhat problematic for the Number 10 gardener - Larry frequently visits the main garden to do his business. Formal Responsibilities His official profile describes the elderly cat as passing his days greeting visitors, inspecting protection measures, and evaluating historical pieces for napping comfort. His regular responsibilities include considering solutions to the mouse occupancy in the house. While Larry is the first to hold this specific position, felines have been welcomed in the corridors of government for at least a hundred years. "Stability is an vital part of Larry's appeal," noted one expert who has researched human-animal connections. Diplomatic Presence Larry has an sharp sense of diplomatic timing. "The moment anything occurs on the street, particularly an formal visit, like routine, he'll be outside the front," commented a Number 10 insider. "Larry loves the red carpet." Former US President the former president and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy are among the international figures he has charmed. However, not all leaders were similarly enamored. Character and Likes "Theresa May notoriously disliked him because she was a canine person," said one photographer who has seen several MPs trying, and unsuccessfully, to stroke the cat. When he isn't walking the pavements, Larry's frequent sleeping spots include the office equipment and desk organizers, but his favorite spots are on the window sills on either side of the entrance. Popular Affection Larry's appeal with the public remains unquestionable. There are various online profiles devoted to the country's chief mouser, including one with over eight hundred sixty-eight thousand fans. He also gets fan mail, playthings, and treats from around the globe and has lately been featured in a book about political animals. Complaints and Response As top feline, he naturally gets his portion of complaints. One government commentator recently called Larry as "too overweight and too idle to really perform his duties," claiming him of being "support reliant." In reply, sources close to the cat have issued a strong rebuke. They clarify that he is not at all government paid for, with Downing Street staff willingly paying his costs.