UK’s Larry the cat, 19, marks 15 years, 6 PMs, as chief mouser

South China Morning PostEN 1 min read 100% complete by dpaFebruary 15, 2026 at 03:29 PM

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Larry the cat, the UK's Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office, is celebrating 15 years at 10 Downing Street. Adopted from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in February 2011, Larry was initially intended as a pet for the Cameron family. His official role is to control the rodent population at the Prime Minister's residence, a position with a history dating back centuries. During his tenure, the 19-year-old tabby has served six prime ministers and become a popular figure with the public and press. Despite some debate over his mousing abilities, Larry remains a fixture outside the famous front door.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Brexit 40% Samantha Cameron 40% Henry VIII 40% Battersea Dogs and Cats Home 50% European Union 50% David Cameron 60% Cabinet Office 60% United Kingdom 70% 10 Downing Street 80% Larry the cat ×390%

Keywords

larry the cat 100% chief mouser 90% 10 downing street 80% uk 70% prime minister 70% rodent control 60% british government 50% battersea dogs and cats home 50% tabby cat 40%