The UK Prime Minister’s office at 10 Downing Street has gained a new resident—a Siberian kitten named Prince. Keir Starmer, the current Prime Minister, introduced the fluffy white kitten, sharing a photo of Prince perched on his desk with paws resting on paperwork. While the origin of the cat’s name remains unclear, it could be a nod to either the American singer or British royalty.
Prince joins a household already famous for its resident cat, Larry, the “Chief Mouser” at Downing Street. Larry, who arrived in 2011, has been a fixture in the Prime Minister’s residence for 14 years, outlasting five PMs. Despite rumors surrounding Larry’s age and eventual passing, his X account humorously responded to Prince’s arrival, stating, “My position as best looking cat on Downing Street remains unchallenged.”
Starmer explained that acquiring the kitten was part of “long negotiations” with his children, who had initially wanted a dog after moving into their official London home. “This is a big move for them, and negotiating for a fantastic kitten called Prince was part of the deal,” he said.
The addition of Prince marks the third feline in Starmer’s family, as they already own a rescued cat named JoJo. However, it’s Larry who continues to draw public attention, with his status as a Downing Street icon remaining strong despite speculation about his future.
Downing Street has reportedly set plans in place to announce Larry’s death when the time comes, but for now, the famous feline seems unbothered by the arrival of Prince.