From Homeless Cat to Celebrity Resident: The Remarkable Story of Downing Street's Top Cat
The cat has witnessed six government leaders arrive and depart, welcomed presidents and princes at the iconic entrance of Downing Street, and is soon set to become the most enduring uninterrupted resident since Pitt the Younger.
Lasting Presence in British Government
While the landscape of UK government has changed dramatically over the past decade and a half, Larry has remained a reassuring steady presence. His lasting appeal - the type that many leaders would desire - is now showcased in a upcoming TV program exploring the country's affection for cats.
"The cat is certainly the character to meet at No 10," stated one political insider, adding that he "has the freedom of the house."
Modest Beginnings
Larry, whose formal title is Head Cat of the Cabinet Office at the Prime Minister's residence, was taken in from an rescue center to address a pest issue. His journey from homeless cat in Wandsworth to official resident represents a true rags to riches story that surpasses many official life stories.
Political Existence
When tensions ran high during the coalition government, former leader the ex-PM was eager to dispel any rumors of animosity between him and the nation's new favorite feline. "The story is I don't love the cat - I do," he announced during one parliamentary session.
Now a increasingly recognized figure, the cat appears completely adjusted to the spotlight. Often seen on broadcast television waiting calmly by the entrance, his relaxed behavior in front of cameras has become rather troublesome for the Downing Street groundskeeper - Larry frequently visits the main garden to do his business.
Formal Duties
His official profile describes the 18-year-old cat as spending his days greeting guests, checking security measures, and evaluating antique furniture for napping comfort. His regular duties include considering solutions to the rodent occupancy in the house.
While the cat is the first to hold this specific position, cats have been accepted in the corridors of government 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.
Official Appearances
The cat has an sharp sense of official timing. "As soon as moment anything happens on the street, especially an official visit, like routine, he'll be outside the main," commented a Number 10 insider. "He loves the red carpet."
Former American President the former president and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy are among the world figures he has impressed. However, not all officials were similarly enamored.
Character and Likes
"Theresa May famously hated him because she was a dog person," said one photographer who has witnessed several MPs attempting, and unsuccessfully, to pet Larry.
When not walking the sidewalks, his frequent resting places include the office equipment and desk organizers, but his favorite spots are on the window sills on both sides of the entrance.
Public Affection
Larry's popularity with the public remains unquestionable. There are various online profiles dedicated to the nation's top mouser, including one with over 868,000 followers. Larry also receives letters, playthings, and treats from around the world and has lately been included in a book about government pets.
Criticism and Answer
As chief cat, he inevitably receives his portion of criticism. One government commentator recently called him as "too fat and too lazy to actually do his duties," claiming him of being "welfare reliant."
In reply, sources close to the cat have issued a stinging response. They explain that Larry is not at all publicly funded, with Number 10 employees voluntarily paying his expenses.