PM Starmer's Family Welcomes Siberian Kitten to Downing Street

Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, has disclosed that his family has chosen to adopt a Siberian kitten as their new pet at Downing Street. This decision comes after extensive discussions within the family about acquiring a pet.

The Prime Minister shared this information during a BBC 5 Live interview, stating, "There's been a long summer of negotiations, back and forth, different options." Initially, the family had considered getting a German shepherd dog, but ultimately settled on a feline companion.

Siberian cats, originating from Russia, are known for their thick, water-resistant triple coats and are considered hypoallergenic due to lower levels of Fel d 1 protein. These intelligent felines can grow quite large, with males weighing up to 25 pounds, and have a lifespan of 12-15 years.

The new kitten will join the existing feline residents of Downing Street, including Larry, the well-known "Chief Mouser," and the Starmer family's rescue cat, JoJo. Larry has been a fixture at the Prime Minister's residence for over a decade, often making appearances during significant political events.

However, integrating the new kitten into the high-security environment of Downing Street presents unique challenges. Starmer explained, "The problem we've got, which is the same for JoJo the cat, is that the only door out of our new flat is bomb proof. Therefore, getting a cat flap in it is proving a little bit difficult."

Sarah Elliott, central veterinary officer for Cats Protection, offered advice on introducing the new kitten to its surroundings. She emphasized the importance of gradual introductions to the other cats and ensuring the kitten has positive experiences with new people. Elliott also highlighted the need for regular grooming, as Siberian cats have long hair that requires maintenance to prevent tangling.

Siberian cats are known for their dog-like loyalty, often following their owners around. They possess strong hunting instincts and are excellent jumpers and climbers. Interestingly, this breed has a unique "chirping" vocalization and, unlike many cats, often enjoys water.

As the Starmer family welcomes their new pet, they will need to navigate the balance between providing a loving home and adhering to the security protocols of Downing Street. The addition of this Siberian kitten not only brings joy to the Prime Minister's family but also adds another feline voice to the historic residence.