Meet the cats tipped for Andy Burnham’s No 10 North

The RSPCA has suggested that a feline resident could offer “comfort and stability” at a northern government office, much like Larry the Cat at Downing Street.

Animal centres across Greater Manchester are already preparing potential candidates, in the hope of taking on the coveted title of Chief Mouser.

The campaign follows Andy Burnham’s suggestion that a northern headquarters for the UK government could be established in Manchester.

Disco Stu (Image: RSPCA)

Karen Colman, RSPCA superintendent for the North, said: “A new home, whether it is a private residence or a new seat of government, isn’t complete without a companion.

“Just as Larry has become a reassuring fixture amidst political turbulence, we believe a rescue cat could bring comfort, stability, and a much-needed paw of support to a new No 10 North.”

The RSPCA has highlighted several feline candidates, each with a story and a set of endearing credentials.

Freya, one of the cats shortlisted for the role, was rescued from a multi-cat household where she suffered malnutrition and lost her kittens.

Comic Book Guy (Image: RSPCA)

After gaining 25 per cent of her body weight in four weeks, Freya is now thriving and lives at the RSPCA Manchester and Salford Adoption Centre.

Two inseparable cats, Pie and Chips, are also in the running.

Described as the “perfect combo meal,” the pair are currently being cared for at RSPCA Hollingworth Lake Animal Centre and are seeking a quieter home where they can shine.

Patch (Image: RSPCA)

Patch, a seven-year-old cat rescued in December 2025, arrived virtually bald due to a flea infestation but has since made a full recovery.

Curious and full of personality, Patch loves to be involved in everything happening around her.

The shortlist also includes Cowboy, a 10-year-old who loves chin scratches and insists on drinking water from the tap, as well as Disco Stu and Comic Book Guy, who came into RSPCA care together after their previous owner could no longer look after them.

Pie and Chips (Image: RSPCA)

Tom, a young cat currently at RSPCA Altrincham Branch, is known for his playful obsession with hunting fluffy pompoms and his occasional attempts at playing fetch.

Despite the light-hearted campaign, the RSPCA is facing serious challenges.

Ms Colman said: “We need special people to open their hearts and homes to change these animals’ lives forever.

Tom (Image: RSPCA)

“RSPCA branches and centres find homes for almost 47 cats a day – two every hour – but rescued animals have been coming in at a quicker rate than they are adopted.

“Rising reports of cruelty and neglect, as well as increasing reports of large-scale cases involving tens, dozens or hundreds of animals have pushed us to crisis point.”

Cowboy (Image: RSPCA)

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The charity has also revealed plans for a state-of-the-art centre in the North West.

The proposed facility in Lowton, at Mossley Hall Farm, would combine veterinary care, rehabilitation, and rehoming services on a single site and is expected to create up to 150 jobs.

Those interested in adopting can visit rspca.org.uk/findapet to view all available rescue animals.