Larry the Cat Returns to Downing Street Duties After Surgery
The 19-year-old chief mouser has resumed his role following a procedure to remove a cyst.
Larry the cat has returned to his duties in Downing Street after undergoing emergency surgery.
The 19-year-old chief mouser, identifiable by a large scar and shaved fur, was seen outside No. 10 this week, continuing his 16th year of keeping the residence free of mice.
Following an operation to remove a cyst, Larry had a brief encounter with a guide dog upon his return, though no harm was reported. A parody account on X, in honor of the cat, humorously commented on the incident, stating, 'I told the dog that if you think my scar is bad, you should see the other guy…'
Larry was brought to Downing Street from the Battersea Dogs and Cats home in 2011 and has since served under seven prime ministers. He also notably saw off Andy Burnham's dog, Axel, whom Burnham chose not to bring to Downing Street due to concerns the two animals would not get along.
The Prime Minister is reportedly considering adopting a cat for No. 10 North in Manchester. However, London's chief mouser role has a much longer history, first established in the 1920s.
Larry is approaching a record tenure in his position. Only Peter III, who resided at Downing Street from 1947 to 1964, served longer than Larry's 15 years. His service has included interactions with numerous foreign dignitaries, including former U.S. President Barack Obama.
Larry has also been a subject of commentary from various political figures. Culture Minister Ian Murray described him as a 'little s***' and 'the most miserable animal you'll ever meet.' Akshata Murty, wife of former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, recounted instances of 'heated exchanges' between Larry and her family's labrador puppy, Nova, with Larry consistently prevailing. Former Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer initially kept his family's kitten, Prince, separate from Larry, expressing concern that the Downing Street veteran might not tolerate the newcomer.
Lord Cameron, Larry's first prime minister, noted that the cat was 'not very keen on men' but expressed surprise at how well Larry bonded with then-U.S. President Barack Obama. Larry has also appeared in official records of diplomatic visits, notably in a photograph with then-Prime Minister Theresa May and U.S. President Donald Trump.
Throughout his tenure, Larry has provided moments of levity amidst political developments, often seen resting at the steps of No. 10, seemingly unperturbed by significant political announcements.
