Mexico City’s National Palace is home to 19 feral cats who have free rein of the historic building, roaming the gardens and halls. These cats have become a symbol of the palace and have been declared “living fixed assets” by the Mexican government. This means that the cats will receive food and care for the rest of their lives, even after the current president leaves office. The cats have unique names, some inspired by artists like David Bowie and others by ancient Aztec language. They have been a part of the palace for at least 50 years, although it is unclear how they first appeared in the building.
Despite not being traditionally honored in ancient Aztec culture, the feral cats have found a home in the National Palace, coexisting with the current president, Andrés Manuel López Obrador. The cats often join official ceremonies and have become an integral part of the palace’s daily life. Staff members have fond memories of the cats living among the gardens and suspect they may enter through a small crack in the palace gate. Some of the cats have become famous, like Zeus, who wandered into a press briefing and received treats from reporters until he became “really fat.”
When López Obrador took office in 2018, the palace cats were quietly fed by employees who brought leftovers and canned food for them. Recognizing the importance of caring for these feline residents, palace staff worked with veterinarians to vaccinate, sterilize, and chip the cats, as well as provide them with shelters and feeding stations. The government hired a veterinarian to look after the cats full time and ensure they have a good life. The palace cats, like Bowie, Coco, and Ollin, did not comment on their new title as “living fixed assets,” but seem content living in the National Palace.
The National Palace, located in the heart of Mexico City, has a rich history as the seat of Mexico’s executive branch and was once the residence of Indigenous Emperor Moctezuma. The palace now serves as the home of President López Obrador and the feral cats have become an inseparable part of the building’s identity. The cats, each with their own personality and quirks, bring a sense of charm and comfort to the palace, greeting visitors at the door and making occasional appearances in official meetings. Their presence has been embraced by palace staff and visitors alike, adding a touch of warmth and whimsy to the historic landmark.
As the first animals in Mexico to be designated as “living fixed assets,” the cats of the National Palace have secured a place in the country’s history. This unique recognition ensures that they will be cared for and provided for by the government for the rest of their lives. The palace cats have become beloved residents of the iconic building, bringing joy and companionship to all who encounter them. Their story exemplifies the special bond that can develop between humans and animals, even in the most unexpected of places. Whether lounging in the garden or sneaking a lick of ice cream, these feline friends have found a home in the heart of Mexico’s National Palace.
