Nineteen feral cats roam freely throughout Mexico’s National Palace, a historic and iconic building in the heart of Mexico City. Considered to be “living fixed assets” by the government of Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, these cats are entitled to receive food and care for the rest of their lives, even after López Obrador leaves office in October. The cats have become a symbol of the National Palace and have full access to every part of the building, often appearing in meetings, interviews, and even on camera during televised press briefings.
The presidential palace, built upon the former residence of Indigenous Emperor Moctezuma, now houses President López Obrador and his feline companions. The cats, with names like Bowie, Coco, and Nube, have made themselves at home in the palace and are a constant presence during official ceremonies. While Moctezuma’s ancient Aztec culture honored Xoloitzcuintle dogs, the current inhabitants are a diverse group named after artists, native words, and elements of the Aztec language.
Staff members recall the presence of feral cats in the palace gardens dating back 50 years, though it remains a mystery how they first gained access to the building. Many more cats come and go through a crack in the palace gate, with 19 cats residing in the building full time. One cat named Zeus gained fame when he made an appearance at the president’s press briefing, prompting the government to ask reporters to refrain from feeding him to prevent him from becoming overweight.
When President López Obrador took office in 2018, palace staff were quietly feeding and caring for the cats. Eventually, the cats were vaccinated, sterilized, and chipped by veterinarians from the National Autonomous University of Mexico. Little cat homes and feeding stations were built around the garden, and a veterinarian was hired to provide permanent care for the feline residents. The cats, including Bowie, Coco, and Ollin, now enjoy a comfortable life within the palace grounds.
Despite being designated as “living fixed assets,” the cats themselves have not commented on their newfound status. Nube, a gray cat who greets visitors at the palace doors, simply meowed when asked about it. The cats have become an integral part of the National Palace’s identity and are cherished by staff and visitors alike. Their presence adds a unique and charming element to the historic building, making them beloved residents of this iconic location in Mexico City.
