Larry the Cat Death, Obituary: Downing Street Chief Mouser Death Reports Remain Unconfirmed in 2026
LONDON — Larry the Cat, the famous tabby who became one of the most recognisable residents of 10 Downing Street, is at the centre of reports of his death, prompting an outpouring of interest from people who have followed his remarkable life in the heart of British politics.
Larry has served as the official Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office since February 2011, when he arrived at Downing Street during David Cameron’s premiership. Over the years, the cat became a familiar presence outside the famous black door, frequently appearing as prime ministers, presidents, monarchs and other world leaders arrived for official meetings.
However, there is currently no reliable official confirmation that Larry has died. Recent credible reports indicate that Larry was still alive and active as recently as July 2026. In fact, photographs and news reports showed him at Downing Street following the arrival of Prime Minister Andy Burnham, whom Larry was reportedly preparing to welcome as his seventh prime minister.
Larry also marked 15 years as Downing Street’s Chief Mouser in February 2026. At the time, ITV News reported that the 19-year-old tabby was considered fit and healthy by his minders and was still performing his familiar duties around Number 10.
A unique place in British political life
Larry’s significance extends far beyond his official title. Since arriving at Downing Street, he has witnessed extraordinary political change, remaining at Number 10 while successive governments came and went.
He served during the premierships of David Cameron, Theresa May, Boris Johnson, Liz Truss, Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer, before welcoming another prime minister in 2026. His longevity has made him something of a symbol of continuity amid Britain’s often turbulent political landscape. The Washington Post previously described Larry as perhaps the most stabilising presence around Downing Street, noting how many political leaders had come and gone during his tenure.
Larry was originally brought to Downing Street after being selected from Battersea Dogs & Cats Home. His official responsibilities have been described in characteristically humorous terms, including greeting visitors, inspecting security arrangements and dealing with the building’s mouse population.
Although his title is Chief Mouser, Larry became famous for his personality as much as his hunting duties. Early in his Downing Street career, reports joked that he preferred sleeping to chasing mice, earning him the nickname “Lazy Larry”. Nevertheless, he eventually demonstrated his credentials by catching mice and occasionally other creatures.
Reports of Larry’s death
Claims about Larry’s death have circulated before. In 2023 and 2024, reports suggested that Downing Street had been considering arrangements for announcing his eventual death because of his advancing age. Those reports did not mean that Larry had actually died, and previous statements from Downing Street described him as healthy.
The latest available reporting makes it important to distinguish between an unconfirmed social-media claim and an official announcement. As of the latest credible reports available, Larry’s death should therefore be treated as unconfirmed unless Downing Street or another authoritative source formally announces it.
Larry’s story has nevertheless become an enduring part of modern British political history. For more than 15 years, the tabby has occupied a unique position at the centre of government while largely remaining above the political arguments taking place around him.
If an official announcement of his death is made, tributes are likely to come from politicians, journalists and members of the public who have watched Larry become one of Britain’s most beloved political animals.
