Palmerston, the feline known for his role as the chief mouse catcher at the UK Foreign Office, has died in Bermuda on February 12. He served in this unique capacity since 2016, gaining a loyal following during his tenure.
According to a statement shared on his social media account, Palmerston was a cherished member of the Bermuda government team and beloved by many. His gentle nature and companionship will be greatly missed.
The cat passed away peacefully, marking the end of an era for the British diplomatic community. Originally from Battersea, a district in South London, Palmerston was rescued from a shelter and began his service at the Foreign Office shortly after.
His name pays homage to the 19th-century statesman, Viscount Palmerston, who served as both Foreign Secretary and Prime Minister. In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Palmerston relocated from the Foreign Office’s central London building and retired that same year.
Throughout his career, he had a notable rivalry with Larry, the cat who continues to patrol for rodents at the Prime Minister’s residence on Downing Street.
In February 2025, a playful announcement on social media suggested that Palmerston had returned from retirement for a new diplomatic mission abroad as a ‘feline relations consultant’ for the new Governor of Bermuda.
Palmerston, the beloved cat from the UK Foreign Office, has passed away in Bermuda. Known for his role as a mouse catcher, he left a lasting impact on the diplomatic community.