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Palmerston, Beloved UK Chief Mouser, Dies at 7

2/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Palmerston, the former chief mouser of the UK Foreign Office, died in Bermuda at age seven.
He was rescued from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home.
He served four years in Whitehall and retired in 2020.
In February 2025, he became a "feline relations consultant" to the Governor of Bermuda.
Tributes followed, including a message from Larry, the chief mouser at Number 10, who called him an "old friend."

History

Historical Context

Palmerston, a black-and-white tuxedo cat, served as the Chief Mouser of the UK's Foreign Office from 2016 until his retirement in 2020. His role, along with the tradition of government cats dating back to the 16th century, highlights the intersection of politics and pet culture. The Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, where he was adopted, has rehomed over 3,000 animals annually since 1860.

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Story summary

Palmerston, the former chief mouser of the UK Foreign Office, died in Bermuda at age seven.
He was rescued from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home.
He served four years in Whitehall and retired in 2020.
In February 2025, he became a "feline relations consultant" to the Governor of Bermuda.
Tributes followed, including a message from Larry, the chief mouser at Number 10, who called him an "old friend."

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