What Happened to Palmerston, the Beloved Foreign Office Cat?

Palmerston, the beloved former "chief mouser" of the UK Foreign Office, has passed away in Bermuda at the age of seven. Known for his diplomatic charm and gentle nature, Palmerston served as a feline relations consultant after retiring in 2020, having originally joined the diplomatic service in 2016. His presence will be sorely missed by the community that adored him, especially his 99,000 social media followers, who celebrated his return to duty in 2025.

Last updated: 12 February 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Palmerston’s death on 12 February 2023 has elicited a wave of tributes, highlighting his unique role within the diplomatic community. His journey from a rescue cat at Battersea Cats and Dogs home to a prominent figure in British diplomacy resonates with many, showcasing the unusual yet impactful roles animals can play in human society. His passing marks the end of an era for the Foreign Office and the many admirers who followed his antics on social media.

Key takeaways

Palmerston, a former chief mouser, died on 12 February 2023 in Bermuda.
He served as the chief mouser for four years, retiring in 2020.
Palmerston was brought back from retirement in 2025 for a diplomatic post in Bermuda.

Timeline: how we got here

Palmerston’s notable journey includes several key milestones:

2016: Palmerston is adopted from Battersea Cats and Dogs Home and begins his role as chief mouser at the Foreign Office.
2020: He officially retires after four years of service, opting for a quieter life away from the limelight.
February 2025: Palmerston is brought out of retirement for a new role as a "feline relations consultant" to the Governor of Bermuda.
12 February 2023: Palmerston passes away peacefully in Bermuda.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The announcement of Palmerston's passing has shocked fans and followers, with many sharing their condolences and memories of the charismatic cat. His social media account continues to celebrate his legacy, highlighting his contributions to the diplomatic space.

What was already established

Before his death, Palmerston was well-known for his playful interactions with both staff and the public. His retirement letter to Lord Simon McDonald underscored his desire for a peaceful life, which he enjoyed until his second stint in Bermuda. His re-emergence in 2025, as a diplomat in a non-traditional sense, was well-received, confirming his status as a beloved figure in British culture.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

Palmerston's presence brought joy and light-heartedness to many during a period marked by political and social challenges. His story resonated with individuals, showcasing how a rescue animal could uplift spirits and foster community connections, something that is often overlooked in the hustle of daily life.

Businesses and jobs

While Palmerston’s role was not traditional in any business sense, his social media presence contributed to the UK’s soft power. His playful persona made him a symbol of diplomacy that transcended conventional boundaries, encouraging businesses to embrace unconventional partnerships and outreach strategies.

Policy and regulation

Though Palmerston's role was mostly symbolic, it reflected a growing trend in UK public life where animals are embraced as part of governmental and diplomatic culture. This trend could influence future policies regarding the inclusion of therapy animals in various institutional settings.

Numbers that matter

7: The age of Palmerston at the time of his passing.
99,000: The number of followers on Palmerston's social media account.
4: The number of years Palmerston served as chief mouser before retiring.

Definitions and jargon buster

Chief Mouser: The official cat assigned to a government building, primarily for pest control and public relations.
Feline Relations Consultant: A playful title given to Palmerston in his later role, highlighting his continued presence in a diplomatic capacity.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the coming weeks, expect a series of tributes and memorials commemorating Palmerston's legacy, both from the Foreign Office and his social media followers. The impact of his passing may spark discussions about the roles animals play in public service.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As organisations consider the legacy of Palmerston, there may be a push for more initiatives that include animals in community engagement and mental health support, inspired by Palmerston's success.

Signals to watch

Public sentiment regarding animal roles in government settings.
Potential initiatives or memorials established in Palmerston's honour.

Practical guidance

Do

Follow any memorial events or tributes to honour Palmerston’s legacy.
Engage with community initiatives that promote animal welfare and adoption.
Share stories about the positive impacts of animals in public service.

Don’t

Discount the influence animals can have on human interactions and diplomacy.
Assume that Palmerston’s role was merely symbolic; it had real emotional and cultural significance.

Checklist

Stay informed about commemorative events for Palmerston.
Consider adopting or fostering a rescue animal to honour his legacy.
Engage in discussions about the role of animals in public life.
Follow Palmerston’s social media accounts for updates and tributes.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Palmerston's passing has brought sadness, it also raises questions about the future representation of animals in governmental roles. There are no definitive plans announced yet regarding the continuation of similar roles within the Foreign Office, and reactions to Palmerston's legacy may vary. It's essential to approach discussions around his impact with sensitivity, acknowledging that different perspectives exist regarding the appropriateness of animals in professional settings.

Bottom line

Palmerston's passing marks a poignant moment in the intersection of animal welfare and public service in the UK. As a figure who brought joy and camaraderie to both government staff and the public, he leaves behind a legacy that encourages us to rethink how we incorporate animals into our lives. His story is a reminder of the unique bond between humans and animals, potentially inspiring future initiatives that celebrate this relationship.

FAQs

What was Palmerston's role at the Foreign Office?

Palmerston served as the chief mouser at the Foreign Office, where he helped maintain a pest-free environment while also serving as a beloved public figure.

Why was Palmerston brought out of retirement?

He was lured out of retirement to serve as a "feline relations consultant" to the Governor of Bermuda, a role that celebrated his diplomatic charm.

How did Palmerston impact public perception of animals in government?

Palmerston's charming presence and social media following demonstrated the positive influence animals can have in public settings, fostering a sense of community and joy.