Larry, the Downing Street cat, remains in his post and will have a new owner

2026-06-23

While the United Kingdom undergoes political changes and welcomes a new Prime Minister, a very special resident remains at the official residence in London. Larry, the cat known as the "Chief Mouser," has lived at 10 Downing Street for over a decade and is ready to meet his new owner.

Larry arrived at the official residence in 2011. He was adopted from an animal shelter with an important mission: to control the rodent population in the historic building. Since then, he has become a famous and much-loved figure by the British public, frequently appearing in live news broadcasts.

The position of "First Feline" is not just a social media joke. There has been an official record for this role since 1929. Although politicians change frequently after elections, the house cat generally remains on-site to ensure the continuity of service and maintain British government tradition.

Currently, Larry is already the record holder for length of service among the felines who have passed through Downing Street. He has seen several different Prime Ministers occupy the residence, surviving various political crises and changes of party. For many journalists and citizens, he is the most stable resident of the house.

With the arrival of the new government, Larry will continue his daily patrols and his famous naps in front of the iconic black door of number 10. He proves that, in UK politics, some traditions are permanent and that the true owner of the house has four paws.