Key Takeaways
- Larry, the UK's most famous cat, has welcomed his seventh prime minister to 10 Downing Street.
- The white and tabby cat, known as 'Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office', has survived through six prime ministers and major political events.
- Larry’s X account, followed by over 900,000 fans, often comments on current affairs.
Larry the cat, a feline fixture at 10 Downing Street for over 15 years, has once again taken up residence as the UK's chief mouser to the Cabinet Office. This time, he is welcoming Andy Burnham as the country’s seventh prime minister in his tenure. The cat, who began his reign on February 15, 2011, under David Cameron, has seen through turbulent times including Brexit and the pandemic.
In a tweet from his official account @Number10cat, Larry expressed his enduring presence: 'Politicians come and go; cats are permanent.' The message was accompanied by a photo of the cat standing proudly in front of 10 Downing Street. This sentiment is echoed by his daily routine, which includes breakfast at 9 am, brunch at 10:30 am, and lunch at noon, with plenty of snacks in between.
Larry’s role extends beyond rodent control; he also greets guests, inspects security defences, and tests antique furniture for napping quality. His official biography on the Downing Street website highlights his multifaceted duties, making him a media darling who often steals the spotlight from visiting foreign leaders. In December 2026, Larry was seen at the doorstep of 10 Downing Street greeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
The cat's X account is followed by over 900,000 fans and has been known to comment on current affairs in a catty manner. For instance, it has taken swipes at Reform UK politicians and US President Donald Trump. His first months in office even inspired a book titled 'The Larry Diaries,' published in 2011.
Larry’s tenure under the Starmer family saw him sharing the No. 10 residence with JoJo and Prince, the Starmer family cats. However, it remains unclear whether the incoming Burnham family will bring their dog into the mix. Despite the potential change, Larry is expected to continue his role as a political veteran, navigating crises with feline calm.
While the cat’s presence may seem trivial compared to the weight of governance, Larry has become an integral part of 10 Downing Street's history and culture. His enduring presence serves as a reminder that some things remain constant in politics, even as leaders come and go.
