Cats Protection is offering advice to Andy Burnham on how to introduce his pet dog Axel to Downing Street chief mouser Larry should he decide to take up permanent residence at Number 10.

Speculation is rife that the new Prime Minister will keep both pets apart by splitting his time between Manchester and London.

However, Cats Protection says that Axel and Larry can form an effective pet coalition at 10 Downing Street if the introduction is handled right.  

When Andy arrives he should:

·       Set up separate zones for Axel and Larry so they can remain apart initially. Using two separate clean cloths, rub Axel around the armpits and Larry around the cheeks and place the cloths in the other’s zone so each pet can get used to the other’s scent. This needs to be repeated daily for a few weeks

·       If this goes well, then allow Axel and Larry to see each other through a glass or transparent barrier, for five minutes at a time. Repeat this over several days, upping the meetings by a minute more each time

·       If both pets seem calm, remove the barrier and allow them to meet. Place Axel on a lead as a precaution and ensure Larry can easily leave the room if he chooses to discontinue negotiations. Remember to reward Axel and Larry with a suitable treat so they associate the experience with something positive     

·       If problems occur at any stage, withdraw both pets and consult a qualified animal behaviourist

Mr Burnham might be tempted to take Axel with him on regular trips between Manchester and London but it is not advised to transport pets over long distances unless there is a strong welfare reason, such as a trip to the vet or it being a necessary part of ensuring an unwanted pet can go to a loving home.   

Cats like to control their own environment and therefore become quickly stressed in new and unfamiliar surroundings, and similarly many dogs can become fearful, restless or over-reactive after lengthy transport.

Tips on introducing cats to dogs can be found at Cats Protection’s advice page here