Peter (chief mouser) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Peter
Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office
In office 1929–1946 Serving with Treasury Bill (1929—1930's)
Monarch	George V Edward VIII George VI
Prime Minister	Ramsay MacDonald Stanley Baldwin Neville Chamberlain Winston Churchill Clement Attlee
Preceded by	Treasury Bill
Succeeded by	Peter II
Personal details
Residence	Home Office
Occupation	Mouser
Gender	Male

Peter was a very special cat! He held an important job in the British government. From 1929 to 1946, Peter was the second official Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office. This means he was in charge of catching mice and rats in government buildings. Many people think Peter was the first real "Chief Mouser." His predecessor, Treasury Bill, only had the job for a short time.

Peter: The Government's Top Cat

A Special Job

Peter started his important role in 1929. He was the second cat to hold the title of Chief Mouser. This job involves keeping government offices free of rodents. Peter was already living at the Home Office, a major government department.

Peter's Daily Life

In 1929, the government department called the Treasury agreed to give one penny every day for Peter's care. Peter was a black cat. At first, Peter wasn't doing his job very well. This was because civil servants, who are people working for the government, were bringing him food. This made Peter less interested in hunting mice.

A New Diet for Success

To help Peter focus on his duties, his diet was changed. This new plan worked! Peter started catching more rodents. He became very good at his job. His hard work kept the Home Office free from pests.

Wartime Service

During World War II, the Home Office had to move to Bournemouth for safety. Peter's services were greatly missed in London. The government even asked for money to care for two cats in his absence. This shows how important Peter was to the government offices. Peter continued his work until 1946. After Peter, another cat named Peter II took over the important role.