Larry the Cat Celebrates 15 Years as Downing Street’s Chief Mouser

Larry the Cat, the beloved feline resident of Number 10 Downing Street, marked his 15th anniversary in office on February 15, 2024. Over the years, Larry has become a symbolic presence, outlasting six British prime ministers with his quiet yet charismatic demeanour.

His journey began in February 2011 when he was brought to Downing Street from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home. Originally intended as a pet for the children of then-Prime Minister David Cameron, Larry assumed the formal role of chief mouser, responsible for keeping the rodent population in check—a position held by cats since the 1920s.

At 19 years old, Larry has weathered political changes that have seen leaders such as Theresa May, Boris Johnson, Liz Truss, and Rishi Sunak come and go. His presence has provided a sense of continuity in a tumultuous political landscape, capturing the hearts of the public with his frequent appearances at the Prime Minister’s doorstep.

A Legacy of Mischief and Charm

Larry’s role extends beyond mere pest control. Described as “inspecting security defences and testing antique furniture for napping quality,” his responsibilities are both whimsical and vital. He has officially surpassed the tenure of Peter III, who held the title from 1947 to 1964.

The tabby cat has also been involved in a few notable confrontations. His rivalry with Palmerston, the Foreign Office’s chief mouser, lasted four years until Palmerston stepped down in 2019. Tensions with other pets, including a Labrador belonging to former Chancellor George Osborne, have added to his reputation as a feisty and independent spirit. Notably, Larry famously snubbed Liz Truss during her brief time as Prime Minister, a moment that drew considerable media attention.

Despite his prickly reputation, Larry has shown moments of unexpected warmth, notably with former U.S. President Barack Obama. Official photographs of high-profile meetings often feature the cat, including a memorable image of Theresa May with Donald Trump, where Larry can be seen perched on a windowsill.

Future Plans for the Iconic Feline

As he celebrates this impressive milestone, tributes have poured in for Larry. A popular tribute account on social media highlighted Larry’s journey, stating, “15 years ago today I arrived on Downing Street in a cage. I’ve seen off Cameron, May, Johnson, Truss, and Sunak, and I’m still going strong.”

Plans are already in place for when Larry eventually retires. Dubbed “Larry Bridges,” this formal protocol reflects the solemnity of his eventual departure, ensuring that the transition is handled with the dignity befitting a cat who has become a national treasure.

In an era of political uncertainty, Larry’s presence offers a touch of levity and charm. His ability to lounge on the steps of Number 10, seemingly indifferent to the weighty announcements being made nearby, continues to endear him to the public. For now, this iconic cat shows no signs of slowing down, remaining a fixture at the heart of British politics.