Presidential Palace Paws: Mexico’s Feline Residents Claim Permanent Residency

In an amusing turn of events in Mexico City, 19 feral cats have taken up permanent residence in the National Palace, now officially deemed “living fixed assets” by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s administration. These whiskered residents enjoy unprecedented access to the palace, where they’ve been seen interrupting meetings, charming tourists, and even sampling the staff’s ice cream.

The palace’s resident veterinarian, Jesús Arias, finds himself frequently accompanied by these feline friends, who brush against his ankles as he walks the historic halls. This unique status not only ensures these cats will be cared for at the government’s expense throughout their lives but also solidifies their role as a charming and intrinsic part of the palace’s daily life.

The presence of cats in the palace isn’t new; some staff recall their companions roaming the gardens for as long as fifty years. However, it wasn’t until recently that their status was officially recognized, securing their future in the palace regardless of political changes. These cats, some named after artists like David Bowie and others after Aztec words, bring a light-hearted spirit to the stately environment.

López Obrador himself has humorously remarked that the cats “dominate” the palace, often wandering into the path of official proceedings and adding a touch of whimsy to formal events. This playful acknowledgment highlights the lighter side of presidential life.

The government has taken serious steps to ensure the well-being of these palace pets, working with veterinarians from the National Autonomous University of Mexico to vaccinate, sterilize, and even provide cozy cat homes throughout the grounds. Their well-being is a priority, which was clear when measures had to be taken to stop reporters from overfeeding a particularly sociable cat named Zeus.

With their status now official, these cats continue to be a beloved part of the palace’s charm, offering a furry welcome to visitors and a delightful distraction to the staff. Their presence is a testament to the cultural appreciation and care for animals that resonate deeply within Mexican heritage, making the National Palace not just a seat of government but a home to some very distinguished four-legged residents.