A Homeless Cat to Famous Inhabitant: This Extraordinary Story of Number 10's Chief Mouser
The cat has witnessed half a dozen government leaders arrive and depart, greeted world leaders and princes at the famous black door of Downing Street, and is soon set to become the longest continuous resident since Pitt the Younger.
Lasting Presence in UK Government
While the scene of UK government has changed significantly over the past decade and a half, Larry has remained a comforting constant. His enduring appeal - the kind that many politicians would covet - is now featured in a new TV program exploring the country's love for cats.
"Larry is definitely the person to encounter at Downing Street," stated one Westminster insider, adding that he "enjoys the run of the residence."
Humble Beginnings
The tabby, whose formal designation is Chief Mouser of the Government at 10 Downing Street, was adopted from an animal shelter to tackle a rodent problem. His journey from homeless feline in Wandsworth to government resident represents a true humble beginnings story that surpasses many political life stories.
Government Existence
When strains ran strong during the coalition government, former leader the ex-PM was eager to dispel any suggestions of animosity between him and the country's new beloved cat. "The rumor is I don't love the cat - I do," he announced during one government meeting.
Now a increasingly established presence, the cat appears fully adjusted to the attention. Often spotted on live TV lingering calmly by the entrance, his calm behavior in front of cameras has become rather problematic for the Downing Street groundskeeper - Larry frequently visits the main garden to do his business.
Official Duties
His official profile details the elderly cat as passing his time welcoming visitors, inspecting security defenses, and testing historical pieces for napping quality. His day-to-day duties include considering solutions to the mouse occupancy in the residence.
While Larry is the first to hold this specific title, felines have been welcomed in the corridors of power for at least a hundred years. "Stability is an vital part of the cat's attraction," explained one academic who has researched human-animal relationships.
Diplomatic Appearances
Larry has an sharp sense of diplomatic occasion. "The minute something occurs on the street, especially an formal visit, like clockwork, he'll be out the main," commented a Number 10 source. "He loves the attention."
Ex- American President the former president and Ukrainian leader Zelenskyy are among the international figures he has charmed. However, not leaders were similarly fond.
Personality and Likes
"Theresa May notoriously disliked him because she was a canine person," explained one photographer who has witnessed several politicians attempting, and failing, to stroke Larry.
When he isn't treading the sidewalks, Larry's regular resting places include the office equipment and in-trays, but his favorite locations are on the window sills on either side of the front door.
Popular Adoration
The cat's popularity with the public remains unquestionable. There are multiple social media accounts dedicated to the nation's top cat, including one with more than 868,000 fans. He also receives letters, toys, and snacks from across the globe and has lately been included in a book about government animals.
Complaints and Response
As top cat, Larry naturally receives his share of criticism. One political analyst recently called Larry as "too overweight and too lazy to actually perform his job," accusing him of being "welfare reliant."
In response, insiders near to Larry have released a strong response. They explain that he is not at all government paid for, with Downing Street staff willingly paying his costs.