Beloved Diplomatic Cat Palmerston Passes Away in Bermuda

Palmerston, the charismatic black and white cat known as the “Chief Mouser” to the UK Foreign Office, has died at the age of eight in Bermuda. The London Foreign Office confirmed his passing on February 12, 2025, marking the end of an era for the beloved feline who made a significant impact both in London and abroad.

Palmerston transitioned from the streets of London to a life of diplomacy when he was adopted from the Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in 2016. He quickly became a fixture at the Foreign Office during a particularly tumultuous period in British politics, just months before the country voted to leave the European Union. His name was inspired by the 19th-century Foreign Secretary and Prime Minister Viscount Palmerston, and he soon developed a large following, boasting nearly 100,000 followers on social media.

In 2020, Palmerston retired from his duties in Whitehall, seeking a quieter life away from the limelight. A letter he “pawed” to Simon McDonald, the former Permanent Under-Secretary for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, expressed his desire to enjoy “some me-time.” He humorously remarked that he would miss the excitement of meeting ambassadors and the thrill of his role in pest control, having famously caught his first mouse shortly after joining the Foreign Office.

Despite his retirement, Palmerston made a return to the public eye in 2025 when he took on a new role alongside Andrew Murdoch, the Governor of Bermuda. This position allowed him to escape London’s grey skies for the sunny beaches and clear waters of the island territory. His presence in Bermuda was warmly received, and he became known for his playful antics, including welcoming foreign dignitaries and distributing poppies ahead of Remembrance Day.

Palmerston’s impact extended beyond his charming personality; he also contributed to charitable causes. He raised over £3,000 (approximately $4,082) for the Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, demonstrating his commitment to animal welfare.

His friendly rivalry with Larry, the feline resident of 10 Downing Street, provided a lighthearted narrative during their tenures. Following Palmerston’s passing, Larry paid tribute to his fellow diplomat, tweeting, “Farewell old friend x.”

Palmerston’s legacy will be remembered fondly by both the public and those who had the privilege of working alongside him. As a “special member of the Government House team in Bermuda,” he was described as a “wonderful companion” with a gentle nature, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who met him.