Bodega cats could be officially recognized in New York with new bill

New York— Bodega cats could receive official recognition from the city government for the first time. Councilman Keith Powers introduced a bill this Thursday that seeks to update the New York City Health Code to legally allow the presence of cats in bodegas.

Currently in a kind of legal limbo, these felines are an integral part of the city's daily life. In addition to their symbolic value, they fulfill an essential function: scaring away rats and mice, thus maintaining the hygiene of these neighborhood establishments.

“There are many things that come to mind when you think of New York City, but bodegas, and the cats that live in them, are one of the most iconic places in our city,” stated Powers, who is also running for Manhattan district president. “Bodega cats represent the New York spirit: friendly, welcoming, and anti-rat. I am proud that my legislation incorporates them into municipal legislation and provides resources to keep them healthy.”

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The legislative proposal includes the creation of a free vaccination program for cats registered in warehouses, which would guarantee their health and well-being, while contributing to public health.

For its part, the organization Bodega Cats of New York, which is dedicated to making these felines visible and protecting them, celebrated the initiative as a historic step forward. “This is a crucial moment for bodega cats and those who love them”, said Dan Rimada, founder of the group. “These cats have always worked discreetly behind the counter; now they are finally receiving the recognition and protection they deserve. I am proud to be part of this step forward for the City of New York”.

This year, the organization also launched a citizen petition to establish a Warehouse Cat Certification Program (BCCP). This program would allow warehouses to obtain certification if they meet certain animal care standards, such as adequate feeding, regular veterinary check-ups, spaying/neutering, and the existence of safe areas for cats within the premises. The certification would help ensure that cats are protected and well cared for, and would allow winery owners to avoid fines, as well as increase public confidence in these businesses. According to the Mayor's Office of Animal Welfare, owners of cats who allow their animals to roam outdoors must, by law, sterilize them. The new project aligns with these regulations and seeks to integrate them more clearly in the context of bodega cats.