Downing Street has said it will not be refunding members of staff who donated towards Larry the cat’s veterinary care.
Larry was spotted limping after he was apparently injured during a fight with Palmerston, the Foreign Office’s chief mouser.
It is the latest clash between the two felines, after Larry injured Palmerston’s ear during an altercation in 2011.
Staff from Number 10 donated money to cover the cost of veterinary care for Larry – who is now expected to make a full recovery.
Downing Street said they did not issue formal statements on the pet, but did say “any costs relating to Larry are met by Downing Street staff on a voluntary basis”.
Baroness Chisholm of Owlpen, Lords Spokesperson for the Cabinet Office, responded to questions about the stricken animal.
“There was no compulsion to donate and no refunds have been requested. The remaining funds will contribute towards the future upkeep of the Chief Mouser,” she said.
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The incident has led to questions in the House of Lords about the care of animals owned by the Government.
“What arrangements have they put in place to ensure that there is proper routine and emergency veterinary treatment for government cats, and any other officially owned animals in government service?” Asked Lord Blencathra.
The question has yet to be answered.
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