Larry the cat, chief mouser of Downing Street and national treasure, has seen off six Prime Ministers so far. He is, however, only one of a long line of political animals at the seats of government on both sides of the Atlantic.

From pandas and platypuses to Labradors and lions, animals have long shored up peace between rivals, clinched election campaigns, caused divisions within parties and left their unique calling cards in the halls of power. Journalist and former special adviser Peter Cardwell traces the political (and not-so-political) adventures of these fascinating pets from Tudor times to No. 10’s newest rescue dog. Drawing on exclusive interviews with Washington and Westminster insiders, including four Prime Ministers, Cardwell reveals never-before-heard tales of political pets and provides fresh insight into the enduring relationships between those in government and their furry friends.

Featuring new candid conversations with Theresa May on living with Larry and Sir Gavin Williamson on Cronus the tarantula’s web of influence, this paperback edition is an essential update on the lives, losses and shenanigans of this colourful cast of characters.