A beloved cat, formerly a key figure at the Foreign Office in Whitehall, has passed away while residing in Bermuda. Palmerston, who was adopted from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, retired in 2020 after serving for four years. In a social media update in February 2025, it was revealed that Palmerston had returned from retirement to take on a role as a feline relations consultant for the new Governor of Bermuda.
At the age of 12, Palmerston peacefully passed away on Thursday. The official statement on Palmerston’s account expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the “Diplocat extraordinaire” who was a cherished member of the Bermuda Government House team and beloved by all who knew him for his gentle and friendly nature.
During his time at Westminster, Palmerston gained fame for his friendly rivalry with Larry, the chief mouser at Number 10 Downing Street. Their well-known cat-fight outside Number 10 in 2016 left Palmerston with a damaged ear and Larry without his collar.
Tributes poured in for Palmerston following his passing, with Labour MP Sarah Champion and UK Deputy Ambassador to Iraq, Serena Stone, expressing their condolences. Battersea Dogs and Cats Home also honored Palmerston, highlighting his positive impact in showcasing the joy rescue cats can bring to people’s lives.
Upon retiring in 2020, Palmerston expressed his desire to step away from the public eye and enjoy a quieter life. His retirement letter, addressed to Sir Simon McDonald, underscored the important role he played in promoting the Foreign Office’s work and building relationships.
Foreign Office staff bid a warm farewell to Palmerston, with Jon Benjamin, director of the Diplomatic Academy, reminiscing about the cat’s playful gesture of leaving a mouse by his desk. The gesture, though unexpected, left a lasting impression on all who worked with Palmerston.
