Chief mouser Palmerston dies after swapping Foreign Office for Bermuda

The Guardian World

by Aneesa Ahmed

February 14, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Chief mouser Palmerston, a rescue cat who gained fame during his tenure at the UK’s Foreign Office, has passed away in Bermuda. Known for his diplomatic roles, Palmerston served as the chief mouser from 2016 until his retirement in 2020. After stepping down, he briefly returned to work in 2025 as a feline relations consultant to Bermuda’s new governor. His death was announced on social media, where he had amassed over 105,000 followers, underscoring his unique role in UK diplomacy. Palmerston’s career began at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home before being adopted by the Foreign Office. During his time there, he earned a reputation for his dignified presence and became a beloved figure. Upon retirement, he expressed a desire to live away from the limelight, though he remained deeply connected to his duties, even during the COVID-19 pandemic when he worked from home. In his final letter, Palmerston reflected on his contributions: “I have championed our work, built our relationships, and celebrated the diversity of our staff.” His legacy is part of a long tradition of cats in British political life, with notable predecessors like Winston Churchill’s cat Nelson and Humphrey, who served under Margaret Thatcher. Palmerston’s story highlights the enduring role of cats in the UK government, symbolizing continuity and national identity. Palmerston’s death has drawn attention not only for his unique career but also as a testament to how even a cat can play a part in global diplomacy. His legacy continues to be celebrated by those who knew him, including Larry, the current chief mouser at Downing Street, who shares a historical connection with Palmerston through Battersea. This story matters because it captures the whimsical yet meaningful

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/14/2026