Return of the Purr-fessional: Former UK Chief Mouser Appointed as Bermuda's First "Cat Diplomat"

Palmerston, the former Chief Mouser of the British Foreign Office who announced his retirement in 2020, has taken on a new assignment. On February 4th, he "spoke" on social media, revealing that he will accompany the new Governor of Bermuda, a British Overseas Territory, as a diplomatic consultant. This makes him the first "cat diplomat" in British history.

Attracted by this perfect diplomatic position, Palmerston decided to "return to the arena" and serve as a semi-retired feline relations consultant to Bermuda's new Governor, busily meeting enthusiastic local residents. He later "posted" again, noting the long journey to Bermuda and thanking the staff for their care.

The British Foreign Office stated that Palmerston will only attend events he deems important, offering advice when needed, and of course, taking a nap from time to time. Palmerston joined the British Foreign Office in 2016. At the time, the 2-year-old cat was staying at the Battersea Dogs and Cats Home. He was selected by the British Foreign Office to serve as a mouser. He was named after Lord Palmerston, the longest-serving Foreign Secretary in British history. However, he moved out of the office building in central London during the COVID-19 pandemic.

During his four years of service, Palmerston helped the British Foreign Office combat rodent infestations, creating a comfortable working environment for Foreign Office staff. In the first two years of his tenure alone, Palmerston caught 27 mice, a remarkable achievement.

Diplomacy and a purr-fect role have lured me out of retirement. I’ve just started work as feline relations consultant (semi-retired) to the new Governor of Bermuda. I’ve been busy meeting very welcoming Bermudians @TheRoyalGazette @FCDOGovUK pic.twitter.com/v8BM548P2l

— Palmerston (@DiploMog) 2025年2月4日