The Cat Who Outlasted Six Prime Ministers

At 10 Downing Street, British prime ministers come and go. But one resident has remained a constant through years of political change: Larry the Cat.

Photo credit: By Her Majesty’s Government – https://assets.digital.cabinet-office.gov.uk (via Wikipedia)

On February 15, Larry marked 15 years living at the prime minister’s residence, serving as the official Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office. During that time, he has quietly watched six prime ministers take office and leave: David Cameron, Theresa May, Boris Johnson, Liz Truss, Rishi Sunak, and now Keir Starmer.

Few occupants of Britain’s most famous address can match that kind of staying power.

Larry arrived in 2011 after being adopted from Battersea Dogs & Cats Home. Officials brought him in to help deal with a mouse problem at Downing Street.

While he occasionally performs his mouse-catching duties, observers say his enthusiasm for the job can be somewhat… selective.

Where Larry truly shines, however, is in public relations.

Over the years, the tuxedo-colored cat has become a beloved figure among the British public. In fact, some surveys have suggested Larry’s approval ratings surpass those of the prime ministers he has served alongside.

He has also gained attention during major events. One of his most memorable moments came during a state visit by former U.S. President Donald Trump, when Larry casually stretched out and took a nap beneath the president’s armored limousine.

The image quickly spread online, adding to the cat’s reputation for calm indifference to political drama.

After more than a decade at Downing Street, Larry remains firmly in place.

Fifteen years. Six prime ministers. And no sign of retirement.