Larry the cat still working hard as No10’s chief mouser after undergoing surgery
Larry the cat has returned to his duties at Downing Street after emergency surgery to remove a cyst, continuing his role as the Government’s chief mouser. His recovery and long service have drawn attention to a familiar figure who has remained at No 10 through years of political change.
The 19-year-old cat was appointed in 2011 and has served under seven prime ministers; he is two years short of surpassing Peter III, who lived at Downing Street from 1947 to 1964. Larry was seen with shaved fur and a large scar, and later had a brief, harmless encounter with a guide dog. He has also shared the residence with several politicians’ pets and appeared during visits by foreign leaders.
- Larry returned to No 10 after surgery to remove a cyst.
- The 19-year-old cat has served seven prime ministers.
- He is two years short of the record for a chief mouser.
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Downing Street is the official home and workplace of the UK prime minister, at the heart of the government. Larry is a cat who arrived there in 2011 and was given the title of chief mouser, a role associated with keeping mice away.
The prime minister and other ministers have changed several times during Larry’s time at No 10, while the cat has remained there. His long stay has made him a familiar presence at the government’s headquarters, where he has also appeared during official visits.