A sad farewell to a diplomatic cat: The passing of Palmerston, the beloved 'chief mouser' of the Foreign Office, has left a paw-shaped hole in the hearts of many.
Palmerston, named after the illustrious Viscount Palmerston, embarked on a unique career path in 2016, joining the diplomatic service. His journey took an unexpected turn during the COVID-19 pandemic when he bid farewell to the bustling streets of central London and moved to a quieter life. In 2020, he officially retired, choosing to spend his days relaxing and enjoying the peace of his new home.
But here's where it gets intriguing: In February 2025, Palmerston's social media account revealed a surprising twist. He was brought out of retirement for a special diplomatic mission - a 'feline relations consultant' role in Bermuda, nearly 3,500 miles away! This news delighted his 99,000 followers, who eagerly anticipated his adventures.
However, this story has a bittersweet ending. On February 12th, a post on his X account announced his peaceful passing. The post described him as a 'diplocat extraordinaire,' a true ambassador of feline diplomacy.
"'Palmy' was an exceptional member of our team in Bermuda, a beloved family companion with a gentle soul. His presence will be deeply missed," the post read.
And this is the part most people miss: Palmerston's retirement letter, addressed to Lord Simon McDonald, hinted at his desire for a simpler life, away from the limelight. It seems he found his bliss in Bermuda, living with Governor Andrew Murdoch.
Palmerston's legacy lives on, not just in the hearts of those who knew him, but also in the unique role he played in diplomatic relations. His passing has sparked tributes from all corners, including his former rival, Larry, the chief mouser of Number 10. Larry, who has served under six prime ministers, bid farewell to his long-time 'friend' with a simple yet heartfelt 'Farewell old friend x.'
So, what do you think? Was Palmerston's diplomatic career a unique and successful venture? Or do you believe his retirement should have been permanent? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
