Political Animals : The secret life of the political pets of Westminster and Washington

Larry

the cat, chief mouser of Downing Street, has seen off five Prime Ministers so

far and is a national treasure. Though certainly the most famous cat in

Britain, Larry is only one of a long line of political animals at the seats of

government on both sides of the Atlantic.

From

pandas and platypuses to Labradors and lions, animals have long shored up peace

between rivals, clinched election campaigns, caused divisions within parties and

left their unique calling cards in the halls of power.

Journalist

and former special adviser Peter Cardwell traces the political (and

not-so-political) adventures of these fascinating pets from Tudor times to No.

10's newest kitten. Drawing on exclusive interviews with Washington and

Westminster insiders, including Prime Ministers past and present, Cardwell reveals

never-before-heard tales of political pets and offers a fresh insight into the

enduring relationships between those in government and their furry friends.

Author: Peter Cardwell

Biography: historical, political & military

Published on 16 Sep 2025 by Biteback Publishing.