Larry, the long-serving chief mouser at Number 10 Downing Street, is set to face some competition with the arrival of a new “Russian” kitten. The kitten is part of a family agreement following Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s move into the residence after his recent election victory.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer revealed on BBC Radio that, after extensive negotiations with his family, they decided on a Siberian kitten instead of a dog. Starmer shared that the decision came after discussions with his children, who had initially wanted a German Shepherd.
Larry, a 17-year-old tabby, has been the resident mouser at Downing Street since 2011, originally adopted to tackle a mouse problem. Despite some criticism of his effectiveness, Larry has become a beloved figure, boasting a strong social media following under the handle @Number10cat.
The integration of the new kitten is not without challenges. Starmer noted that the only exit from their flat is bomb-proof, complicating the installation of a cat flap. Additionally, officials have prepared a detailed contingency plan for Larry’s eventual passing, dubbed “Larry Bridges,” mirroring the late Queen Elizabeth II’s “London Bridge” plan.
Sarah Elliott, a veterinary officer from Cats Protection, advised the Starmer family on integrating the new kitten with Larry and their other cat, JoJo. She emphasized the need for a gradual introduction and suggested providing Larry with a quiet space to retreat to when the kitten’s energy becomes overwhelming.
Larry, however, remains confident in his position, asserting through his social media account that the new kitten will report to him.