Nineteen feral cats known for roaming through every corner of Mexico’s National Palace recently received a new title with significant protections from Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador.
Now deemed “living fixed assets” by Obrador, the palace cats are the first animals given this honor in Mexico. With their new title, Mexico’s Treasury is now required to provide the cats with food and care for as long as they live — no matter who becomes President, AP News reports.
The 19 cats – all of whom have names – have free range of the palace and garden. They famously greet guests, wander into important meetings and TV interviews, and even walk in front of President Obrador during important ceremonies. Several other feral cats find their way onto the palace grounds, coming and going as they please.
Cats have been a part of the palace grounds for at least 50 years. Perhaps the most well-known palace cat was a gray tabby named Zeus — a regular at press conferences. Zeus captured hearts across the world when he settled in front of the camera during a press conference and sauntered among the reporters looking for treats.
The 19 protected cats have been vaccinated, sterilized, and microchipped by veterinarians from the National Autonomous University of Mexico. They also have a permanent caretaker, as well as specially-built cat houses and feeding stations located throughout the garden.
Lady Freethinker applauds President Obrador for ensuring a safe future for these beloved cats and for recognizing their important role at Mexico’s National Palace.
