A Stray Feline to Famous Inhabitant: This Extraordinary Story of Downing Street's Chief Mouser
The cat has witnessed half a dozen government leaders arrive and depart, welcomed world leaders and princes at the iconic black door of Downing Street, and is shortly set to become the most enduring uninterrupted resident since historical figures.
Lasting Figure in UK Government
While the landscape of British politics has changed dramatically over the past decade and a half, the feline has remained a comforting steady presence. His lasting popularity - the type that many politicians would covet - is now featured in a new documentary series exploring the country's affection for cats.
"Larry is definitely the character to encounter at Downing Street," commented one political insider, adding that he "has the freedom of the house."
Modest Origins
Larry, whose formal title is Chief Mouser of the Government at 10 Downing Street, was taken in from an rescue center to address a pest problem. His journey from stray cat in Wandsworth to government inhabitant represents a true rags to riches story that outshines many official life stories.
Government Life
When strains ran strong during the coalition government, former leader the ex-PM was keen to dismiss any suggestions of animosity between him and the nation's new favorite feline. "The rumor is I dislike Larry - I certainly do," he announced during one government meeting.
Now a more established presence, the cat appears fully accustomed to the attention. Often seen on broadcast TV waiting patiently by the entrance, his relaxed demeanor in front of cameras has become rather troublesome for the Downing Street gardener - he frequently visits the front garden to do his business.
Official Duties
His official profile describes the elderly cat as passing his time greeting guests, checking security defenses, and evaluating historical furniture for napping comfort. His day-to-day duties include contemplating solutions to the mouse occupancy in the residence.
While the cat is the initial to hold this specific title, cats have been welcomed in the corridors of power for at minimum a hundred years. "Stability is an essential part of the cat's attraction," noted one academic who has studied people-pet relationships.
Diplomatic Appearances
Larry possesses an sharp sense of diplomatic timing. "As soon as minute something occurs on the street, particularly an official visit, like routine, he'll be out the front," commented a Downing Street source. "Larry loves the red carpet."
Former American leader the former president and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy are among the world leaders he has charmed. However, not leaders were equally fond.
Character and Preferences
"The former PM famously disliked him because she was a dog person," explained one photographer who has seen several MPs attempting, and failing, to pet Larry.
When he isn't treading the pavements, his frequent sleeping spots include the office equipment and desk organizers, but his preferred locations are on the window sills on both sides of the entrance.
Public Adoration
The cat's appeal with the public remains undeniable. There are multiple online accounts dedicated to the nation's top cat, including one with more than 868,000 followers. He also receives letters, toys, and treats from across the globe and has lately been featured in a book about political pets.
Complaints and Answer
As top feline, he naturally gets his share of complaints. One political commentator recently called Larry as "excessively fat and excessively lazy to really do his duties," accusing him of being "welfare reliant."
In reply, insiders near to the cat have released a stinging response. They clarify that Larry is not publicly funded, with Number 10 staff voluntarily covering his expenses.