In Mexico City, amidst the grandeur of the National Palace, an unexpected group holds court: nineteen feral cats. These furry inhabitants roam freely through lush gardens and historic halls, leaving their paw prints on both official ceremonies and casual encounters alike.
Palatial Prowlers: The Feline Residents of Mexico’s National Palace
Mexico’s National Palace, a majestic symbol of the country’s executive power, boasts not just historical significance but also a rather unique set of residents: nineteen feral cats. These furry occupants roam freely, stalking pigeons, greeting dignitaries, and even making surprise appearances on press briefings.
19 Cats in Mexico’s Palace
From Feral to “Fixed Assets”: A Historic Designation
These presidential felines have recently achieved a historic status. The Mexican government, under President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, declared them “living fixed assets.” This designation, typically reserved for buildings and furniture, ensures the cats receive food and care for life, funded by the national treasury. This decision highlights the growing recognition of animal welfare and the cats’ symbolic importance to the National Palace.
A Longstanding Tradition: Felines and the Palace
The presence of cats within the palace walls dates back decades. Staff accounts describe feral cats residing amongst the gardens as far back as 50 years ago. The exact origin of these feline residents remains a mystery, with some speculating they entered through cracks in the palace gates. Regardless of their arrival, these cats have become an integral part of the palace’s character.
Presidential Pals: Life in the Palace
The 19 official palace cats have names reflecting their diverse personalities and backgrounds. Some, like “Bowie,” the orange tabby, are named after celebrities, while others, like “Ollin” (meaning “movement” in Nahuatl, the Aztec language), bear names steeped in Mexican history. These presidential pals enjoy the freedom of the palace, attending meetings, napping in historic halls, and even occasionally stealing ice cream from unsuspecting staff! President López Obrador himself acknowledges their dominance, admitting they often walk in front of him during official ceremonies.
The palace staff plays a crucial role in caring for these feline residents. After López Obrador took office, a collaboration with veterinarians from the National Autonomous University of Mexico ensured the cats were vaccinated, sterilized, and microchipped. Dedicated feeding stations and cozy cat houses were built within the gardens, and a veterinarian, Jesús Arias, was appointed to provide them with ongoing care.
While the cats themselves remain tight-lipped about their newfound status as “living fixed assets,” their presence undeniably adds a unique charm to the National Palace. From Nube, the friendly greeter, to Ollin, the napping history buff, these presidential felines are sure to continue leaving their paw prints on Mexico’s legacy.
