🔗 Share this article

The cat has seen six prime ministers arrive and depart, greeted presidents and princes at the iconic black door of No 10, and is shortly set to become the most enduring uninterrupted occupant since Pitt the Younger.

Lasting Figure in UK Politics

While the scene of UK government has changed significantly over the last 15 years, the feline has remained a comforting steady presence. His lasting popularity - the type that many politicians would covet - is now showcased in a new TV program exploring the country's affection for felines.

"The cat is definitely the character to encounter at Downing Street," commented one political insider, adding that he "enjoys the freedom of the house."

Humble Beginnings

Larry, whose official designation is Head Cat of the Government at 10 Downing Street, was adopted from an animal shelter to tackle a pest issue. His journey from stray feline in south London to official resident represents a true rags to riches story that outshines many political life stories.

Political Life

When strains ran strong during the coalition government, former Prime Minister the ex-PM was eager to dismiss any rumors of dislike between him and the country's new beloved cat. "The rumor is I dislike the cat - I do," he declared during one parliamentary session.

Now a more recognized figure, the cat appears completely adjusted to the attention. Often seen on live television lingering calmly by the entrance, his relaxed demeanor in front of cameras has become somewhat troublesome for the Number 10 gardener - he frequently visits the front flower patch to relieve himself.

Official Duties

His government description details the elderly tabby as spending his time greeting visitors, checking security measures, and testing antique furniture for napping comfort. His regular responsibilities include contemplating solutions to the mouse presence in the residence.

While the cat is the initial to hold this particular title, cats have been accepted in the corridors of government for at minimum a century. "Consistency is an essential part of Larry's appeal," noted one academic who has studied people-pet relationships.

Diplomatic Appearances

Larry possesses an sharp sense of official occasion. "The moment something occurs on the street, especially an formal arrival, like clockwork, he'll be out the front," remarked a Downing Street source. "Larry adores the attention."

Former American President Barack Obama and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy are among the international leaders he has charmed. However, not leaders were equally fond.

Character and Preferences

"Theresa May famously disliked him because she was a canine lover," said one photographer who has witnessed several MPs attempting, and unsuccessfully, to stroke Larry.

When not walking the sidewalks, his frequent resting spots include the office equipment and desk organizers, but his favorite locations are on the ledges on either sides of the front door.

Public Affection

The cat's popularity with the people remains undeniable. There are various social media profiles devoted to the country's chief cat, including one with more than 868,000 fans. Larry also gets letters, toys, and treats from across the globe and has recently been included in a book about political pets.

Criticism and Answer

As top cat, Larry inevitably gets his portion of complaints. One political analyst recently called Larry as "too overweight and excessively idle to really perform his job," claiming him of being "welfare reliant."

In reply, insiders near to the cat have issued a strong response. They clarify that he is not at all government paid for, with Number 10 staff voluntarily covering his costs.