A Homeless Cat to Celebrity Resident: This Extraordinary Tale of Number 10's Top Cat
The cat has witnessed half a dozen prime ministers come and go, greeted presidents and princes at the iconic black door of Downing Street, and is soon set to become the most enduring continuous resident since Pitt the Younger.
Lasting Figure in UK Politics
While the scene of UK government has changed significantly over the past decade and a half, Larry has remained a comforting steady presence. His lasting appeal - the kind that many leaders would desire - is now showcased in a new TV program exploring the nation's love for cats.
"The cat is definitely the person to meet at Downing Street," stated one Westminster source, adding that he "enjoys the run of the residence."
Humble Beginnings
The tabby, whose formal designation is Head Cat of the Cabinet Office at 10 Downing Street, was taken in from an animal shelter to address a rodent problem. His journey from stray cat in Wandsworth to government resident represents a true humble beginnings story that outshines many official biographies.
Government Life
When strains ran strong during the political partnership, former leader the ex-PM was keen to dispel any rumors of animosity between him and the nation's new beloved cat. "This rumor is I dislike the cat - I do," he declared during one government meeting.
Now a increasingly recognized presence, Larry appears fully adjusted to the spotlight. Often seen on broadcast TV waiting patiently by the front door, his relaxed demeanor in front of cameras has become somewhat troublesome for the Number 10 gardener - Larry frequently goes to the main flower patch to relieve himself.
Official Responsibilities
His government description details the elderly cat as passing his days welcoming guests, inspecting protection defenses, and evaluating antique pieces for sleeping comfort. His regular duties include considering solutions to the rodent presence in the residence.
While Larry is the initial to hold this particular title, felines have been accepted in the corridors of power for at minimum a century. "Consistency is an essential part of the cat's appeal," noted one academic who has researched people-pet relationships.
Diplomatic Presence
The cat possesses an acute sense of official timing. "The moment something happens on the road, particularly an formal visit, like routine, he'll be out the main," remarked a Number 10 insider. "He adores the red carpet."
Former US President Barack Obama and Ukraine's leader Zelenskyy are among the world leaders he has impressed. However, not officials were equally enamored.
Character and Preferences
"Theresa May famously disliked him because she was a canine person," said one camera person who has witnessed several MPs attempting, and unsuccessfully, to stroke Larry.
When not treading the pavements, Larry's frequent resting places include the printer and desk organizers, but his preferred locations are on the window sills on either sides of the front door.
Popular Affection
Larry's popularity with the people remains unquestionable. There are various social media accounts devoted to the nation's chief cat, including one with over 868,000 followers. He also gets letters, toys, and snacks from around the world and has recently been featured in a publication about political animals.
Criticism and Answer
As chief feline, Larry naturally gets his portion of complaints. One government analyst recently called Larry as "too fat and excessively lazy to really perform his job," accusing him of being "support dependent."
In response, sources near to the cat have issued a stinging rebuke. They clarify that Larry is not publicly paid for, with Downing Street staff willingly paying his costs.