The world of diplomacy has lost one of its furriest and most formidable figures. Palmerston, the former Chief Mouser of the UK Foreign Office, has died in retirement in Bermuda.

He was a paw-litical giant in a world of suits. Palmerston, the tuxedo cat who once roamed the corridors of power in Whitehall, keeping diplomats and rodents alike in check, passed away on Thursday, February 12, 2026. He was 12 years old. The news was confirmed via his official X (formerly Twitter) account, sparking tributes from global leaders and his arch-rival at Number 10, Larry the Cat.

Palmerston's journey from a rescue shelter at Battersea to the sun-drenched beaches of Bermuda is the stuff of feline legend. He served as the Foreign Office's Chief Mouser from 2016 to 2020, a tumultuous period that saw Brexit and three Prime Ministers. Through it all, Palmerston remained a constant, if occasionally scratchy, presence.

A Retirement in Paradise

Unlike many civil servants who retire to the English countryside, Palmerston chose the high life. In 2020, he "wrote" a letter of resignation to Sir Simon McDonald, citing a desire to work "away from the limelight." He moved to Bermuda with the Governor, Andrew Murdoch, where he spent his twilight years as a "Feline Relations Consultant."

His death marks the end of an era. Palmerston was not just a pet; he was a soft power asset. With over 100,000 followers on social media, he humanized the often stiff world of British diplomacy.

The Larry Rivalry

No obituary for Palmerston would be complete without mentioning his feud with Larry, the Chief Mouser at 10 Downing Street. Their turf wars on Downing Street were well-documented by the paparazzi, often involving hissing matches and fur flying. Yet, in a show of statesmanship, Larry's account posted a touching tribute: "Farewell old friend x."

• Name: Palmerston (named after Viscount Palmerston).
• Service: 2016–2020 (Foreign Office).
• Retirement: 2020–2026 (Government House, Bermuda).
• Legacy: 27 known mice caught (official count).

Why It Matters

In a news cycle dominated by war, debt, and disease, the story of Palmerston resonates because it is innocent. It reminds us of the universal bond between humans and their pets. Even in the high-stakes game of geopolitics, a cat nap in a sunbeam is a priority.

"Palmerston, Diplocat extraordinaire, passed away peacefully... He was a wonderful companion with a gentle nature," the statement read. Goodnight, sweet prince. May flights of mice sing thee to thy rest.