Palmerston, a black and white cat rescued from the Battersea Dogs and Cats Home shelter, became an unlikely figure in British diplomacy by assuming official duties at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs In 2016, during a politically turbulent period. Officially responsible for controlling rats in government buildings in Whitehall, the animal quickly became a media mascot, gaining thousands of followers on social media and gaining notoriety among diplomats and civil servants.
After four years of service, the cat retired in 2020, during the Covid-19 pandemic, announcing his departure symbolically in a letter, in which he explained that he wanted a quieter life, dedicated to exploring the countryside and climbing trees.
In 2025, Palmerston returned to public life by accompanying British Governor Andrew Murdoch to Bermuda, assuming the informal title of “cat relations consultant (semi-retired)”. According to the message released after his death, Palmerston became “a special member of the Government House team and a beloved family member”, remembered as an affectionate companion with a gentle nature.
Born in 2014, the cat progressed from a rescued animal to an unusual symbol of British public life, continuing the long tradition of cats in government buildings in the UK, which dates back centuries of feline presence in parliaments and ministries.
During his time as “chief mouser,” Palmerston became a constant media figure, appearing in photos and videos alongside politicians, receiving attention from international press, and maintaining his reputation as a charismatic and diligent rat controller.
The death of Palmerston marks the end of an era for the Foreign Office, where cats have historically played symbolic and functional roles, reminding us that even in the corridors of power there is space for four-legged companions.
