A Homeless Cat to Celebrity Resident: The Extraordinary Story of Number 10's Top Cat
Larry has seen six government leaders arrive and depart, welcomed world leaders and princes at the iconic entrance of Downing Street, and is shortly set to become the longest continuous resident since Pitt the Younger.
Lasting Presence in UK Politics
While the landscape of British politics has changed dramatically over the last decade and a half, the feline has remained a reassuring constant. His lasting appeal - the type that many politicians would covet - is now showcased in a new TV program exploring the country's affection for cats.
"Larry is certainly the character to meet at Downing Street," commented one political insider, adding that he "enjoys the freedom of the residence."
Humble Beginnings
Larry, whose official designation is Chief Mouser of the Government at 10 Downing Street, was adopted from an animal shelter to tackle a pest problem. His journey from stray feline in south London to government resident represents a true humble beginnings story that surpasses many official life stories.
Political Life
When strains ran high during the political partnership, former Prime Minister the ex-PM was eager to dispel any suggestions of animosity between him and the nation's new beloved cat. "This rumor is I dislike the cat - I do," he declared during one parliamentary session.
Now a more established figure, the cat appears completely adjusted to the attention. Often spotted on live TV lingering calmly by the entrance, his relaxed demeanor in front of cameras has become rather troublesome for the Number 10 groundskeeper - Larry frequently visits the main flower patch to do his business.
Formal Responsibilities
His government description describes the 18-year-old cat as spending his time greeting guests, checking protection measures, and testing antique pieces for sleeping quality. His day-to-day responsibilities include considering solutions to the mouse presence in the residence.
While the cat is the first to hold this specific position, cats have been accepted in the halls of government for at minimum a hundred years. "Stability is an essential part of Larry's attraction," explained one academic who has studied human-animal connections.
Official Appearances
Larry has an sharp sense of diplomatic occasion. "The moment anything happens on the road, especially an formal arrival, like routine, he'll be outside the front," remarked a Number 10 source. "Larry adores the attention."
Former US leader the former president and Ukraine's leader Zelenskyy are among the international leaders he has charmed. However, not all officials were equally enamored.
Personality and Preferences
"The former PM famously hated him because she was a dog lover," said one camera person who has seen several MPs trying, and failing, to pet the cat.
When not treading the sidewalks, Larry's frequent sleeping places include the printer and desk organizers, but his preferred spots are on the ledges on either sides of the entrance.
Popular Affection
Larry's popularity with the people remains undeniable. There are multiple social media profiles dedicated to the country's chief mouser, including one with over 868,000 fans. He also receives fan mail, toys, and snacks from around the world and has recently been featured in a publication about political pets.
Complaints and Answer
As top feline, he naturally receives his portion of criticism. One government commentator recently described Larry as "too fat and excessively lazy to really perform his duties," claiming him of being "welfare dependent."
In reply, sources close to the cat have released a strong rebuke. They clarify that he is not at all government funded, with Number 10 employees willingly covering his costs.