From Stray Cat to Celebrity Resident: This Extraordinary Story of Downing Street's Top Cat
Larry has seen half a dozen government leaders come and go, welcomed world leaders and princes at the iconic entrance of Downing Street, and is soon set to become the longest continuous occupant since Pitt the Younger.
Enduring Presence in UK Politics
While the landscape of UK government has changed dramatically over the past decade and a half, the feline has remained a reassuring steady presence. His enduring appeal - the kind that many leaders would covet - is now showcased in a new TV program exploring the nation's love for cats.
"The cat is certainly the person to encounter at No 10," stated one Westminster insider, adding that he "has the run of the residence."
Humble Beginnings
Larry, whose formal designation is Head Cat of the Government at the Prime Minister's residence, was taken in from an rescue center to tackle a rodent issue. His journey from stray cat in south London to official resident represents a true humble beginnings story that surpasses many official life stories.
Political Life
When strains ran high during the coalition government, former leader David Cameron was keen to dispel any rumors of animosity between him and the country's new favorite cat. "The rumor is I dislike the cat - I do," he declared during one government meeting.
Now a more established figure, the cat appears fully adjusted to the attention. Often seen on broadcast TV lingering calmly by the front door, his calm demeanor in front of audiences has become rather troublesome for the Downing Street gardener - Larry frequently goes to the main garden to relieve himself.
Formal Responsibilities
His government profile describes the 18-year-old cat as passing his days greeting visitors, checking security measures, and testing antique furniture for napping comfort. His day-to-day responsibilities include contemplating answers to the mouse occupancy in the house.
While the cat is the first to hold this specific position, cats have been welcomed in the halls of government for at least a hundred years. "Stability is an vital part of Larry's attraction," noted one expert who has researched human-animal relationships.
Diplomatic Appearances
Larry possesses an acute sense of diplomatic occasion. "As soon as minute anything happens on the street, especially an official visit, like routine, he'll be out the main," commented a Downing Street insider. "Larry adores the attention."
Former American leader the former president and Ukraine's President Zelenskyy are among the international figures he has charmed. However, not all leaders were similarly enamored.
Character and Preferences
"Theresa May notoriously hated him because she was a canine lover," said one camera person who has witnessed several politicians trying, and failing, to stroke the cat.
When he isn't treading the pavements, his regular sleeping spots include the printer and in-trays, but his favorite spots are on the window sills on either sides of the front door.
Popular Adoration
The cat's popularity with the people remains unquestionable. There are various social media accounts dedicated to the nation's chief cat, including one with over 868,000 fans. Larry also gets letters, playthings, and snacks from across the world and has lately been featured in a book about government pets.
Criticism and Response
As chief feline, Larry inevitably gets his share of complaints. One government commentator recently called Larry as "too fat and too lazy to really perform his duties," claiming him of being "welfare reliant."
In reply, insiders near to the cat have issued a strong rebuke. They clarify that Larry is not government funded, with Number 10 employees willingly covering his expenses.