A Stray Feline to Celebrity Inhabitant: This Remarkable Story of Number 10's Top Cat
The cat has observed half a dozen government leaders arrive and depart, greeted world leaders and princes at the famous black door of Downing Street, and is shortly set to become the most enduring uninterrupted resident since historical figures.
Enduring Figure in British Politics
While the landscape of UK government has transformed dramatically over the last decade and a half, Larry has remained a reassuring steady presence. His lasting popularity - the type that many leaders would desire - is now showcased in a upcoming TV program exploring the nation's affection for cats.
"Larry is certainly the person to meet at No 10," stated one Westminster source, adding that he "has the run of the house."
Modest Beginnings
The tabby, whose official title is Chief Mouser of the Cabinet Office at the Prime Minister's residence, was taken in from an animal shelter to tackle a pest problem. His journey from homeless cat in south London to official inhabitant represents a true rags to riches story that outshines many official life stories.
Government Existence
When strains ran high during the coalition government, former Prime Minister David Cameron was eager to dispel any suggestions of dislike between him and the nation's new favorite feline. "The story is I dislike Larry - I certainly do," he announced during one government meeting.
Now a more established presence, the cat appears completely adjusted to the attention. Often spotted on live TV lingering calmly by the front door, his relaxed demeanor in front of cameras has become somewhat troublesome for the Number 10 gardener - Larry frequently visits the front flower patch to relieve himself.
Formal Duties
His official profile describes the 18-year-old cat as passing his time welcoming visitors, inspecting security defenses, and testing historical furniture for napping quality. His day-to-day duties include contemplating answers to the rodent presence in the residence.
While the cat is the first to hold this particular title, felines have been welcomed in the halls of power for at minimum a century. "Consistency is an essential part of the cat's appeal," explained one expert who has studied people-pet relationships.
Diplomatic Presence
The cat has an sharp sense of official occasion. "The moment something occurs on the road, especially an official arrival, like clockwork, he'll be outside the main," remarked a Downing Street source. "Larry adores the red carpet."
Ex- US President Barack Obama and Ukraine's President Zelenskyy are among the world leaders he has impressed. However, not all leaders were equally fond.
Personality and Preferences
"Theresa May famously hated him because she was a canine lover," said one photographer who has seen several politicians attempting, and unsuccessfully, to stroke the cat.
When he isn't walking the sidewalks, Larry's frequent sleeping spots include the office equipment and in-trays, but his favorite locations are on the ledges on either side of the entrance.
Popular Adoration
The cat's appeal with the people remains undeniable. There are various online accounts dedicated to the nation's chief mouser, including one with more than 868,000 fans. Larry also receives letters, toys, and treats from across the globe and has recently been featured in a publication about government animals.
Criticism and Response
As top feline, he naturally gets his share of criticism. One government commentator recently called him as "excessively fat and too idle to really perform his job," accusing him of being "support dependent."
In reply, sources close to Larry have released a strong response. They clarify that Larry is not government paid for, with Downing Street employees voluntarily paying his costs.