Larry the Cat: The Official Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office
Larry, a brown and white tabby, has served as the Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office at 10 Downing Street since February 15, 2011. Officially recognized as a civil servant, Larry holds the unique distinction of being the first cat at the residence to be granted the title of Chief Mouser, a role that involves pest control and public relations for the British government.
Who is Larry the Cat?
Larry was adopted from the Battersea Dogs & Cats Home by staff at Downing Street to address a visible rodent problem near the Prime Minister’s residence. According to the official UK government archives, he was selected for his strong predatory drive. Unlike previous cats associated with Downing Street, Larry’s tenure has spanned the administrations of five different Prime Ministers, including David Cameron, Theresa May, Boris Johnson, Liz Truss, and Rishi Sunak, and continues under Keir Starmer.
What are the Duties of the Chief Mouser?
While the title of “Chief Mouser” is largely honorary, Larry’s presence serves a dual purpose. His primary mandate is the management of the mouse population within the historic building. Beyond pest control, he has become a global media fixture. He is frequently photographed by the press corps during political transitions and international summits. The BBC has noted that Larry’s longevity has made him a constant figure in the often-turbulent environment of British politics, frequently appearing in the background of televised news reports.
How Does Larry Compare to Previous Downing Street Cats?
The tradition of keeping a cat at Downing Street dates back to the early 20th century, though Larry is the first to be officially listed on the government’s payroll records.
| Cat | Tenure | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Munich Mouser | 1937–1943 | Unofficial |
| Humphrey | 1989–1997 | Unofficial |
| Larry | 2011–Present | Official Civil Servant |
Unlike Humphrey, who was famously retired following reports of tension with Cherie Blair, Larry remains in residence regardless of the occupant of the Prime Minister’s office. His status is protected by his position as a staff member of the Cabinet Office rather than a personal pet of the Prime Minister.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Larry a government employee? Yes, he is officially considered a member of the Cabinet Office staff.
- Does he belong to the Prime Minister? No, Larry is owned by the staff at Downing Street and serves the building itself.
- How old is Larry? As of 2024, Larry is estimated to be over 17 years old, having been approximately four years old when he was adopted in 2011.
As the longest-serving resident of 10 Downing Street, Larry continues to occupy a unique space in British political history. While his primary duty remains the mitigation of the building’s rodent population, his role as a diplomatic mascot ensures his continued visibility in international media coverage of the UK government.