Palmerston, a renowned Battersea rescue cat, served as the Foreign Office's chief mouser in Whitehall for four years before retiring to Bermuda. His social media presence captured the hearts of many, and he was seen as a beloved fixture in the UK government’s playful public image. After his retirement in 2020, Palmerston briefly returned to public life as a 'feline relations consultant' for the Governor of Bermuda, a position that kept him engaged in the spirit of diplomacy.

On February 12, 2025, Palmerston sadly passed away at the age of 12, as confirmed by a heartfelt announcement on his social media account. He was cherished not only for his charm and gentle nature but also for the unique role he played in government as a non-human ambassador, drawing attention to the lighter side of official duties. His passing has prompted tributes from many, including Larry the Cat, the current chief mouser of 10 Downing Street, highlighting the community formed around these feline figures in British political life.

Palmerston's death underscores the bond people share with their pets, especially when those pets become part of larger narratives, such as those involving politics and public service. His legacy as a chief mouser and as a beloved pet within the Government House in Bermuda adds a unique chapter to the story of animals in roles reserved for humans, proving that even in government, there's room for a little feline diplomacy and friendship.