Palace Declaration Will Give 19 Cats Extra TLC for the Rest of Their Lives

Cats of the National Palace: Mexico’s Furry Diplomats

Amidst the majestic corridors and verdant gardens of Mexico’s National Palace, a silent cohort of feral cats holds court, embodying a peculiar charm that has captured the attention of palace denizens and tourists alike.

“They have access to every part of the palace, so they walk in on meetings, and interviews, and wander onto camera,” remarked Jesús Arias, the palace veterinarian, as a few feline companions affectionately rubbed against his legs.

In a groundbreaking move, the government under Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador has designated these feline residents as “living fixed assets,” marking the first time animals in Mexico have received such official recognition.

“The cats are now a symbol of the National Palace. Just as we understand this world, I wouldn’t understand the National Palace without the presence of these cats,” emphasised Adriana Castillo Román, the general director of the National Palace and Cultural Heritage Conservancy. “We have to make sure the cats are taken care of.”

Nestled within the heart of Mexico City, the presidential abode, once the seat of Indigenous Emperor Moctezuma’s empire, now hosts a peculiar blend of history and contemporary charm. While Moctezuma revered hairless dogs known as Xoloitzcuintle, the palace now echoes with the names of its feline inhabitants: Bowie, Bellof, Nube, Coco, Yema, Ollin, Balam, and more.

These cats, bearing names inspired by artists and native language, have become an integral part of the palace’s ambience. López Obrador himself acknowledges their dominion over the premises, often finding himself in their gentle company during official proceedings.

Among their ranks, Zeus, a now-deceased member, achieved fleeting fame when he nonchalantly strolled into a morning press briefing, captivating reporters and palace staff alike with his impromptu performance.

To ensure the well-being of these esteemed residents, palace authorities collaborated with veterinarians to provide medical care, sterilisation, and even personalised shelters and feeding stations within the palace grounds.

As for the cats themselves, their response to their newfound status as “living fixed assets” remains inscrutable. While Bowie, Coco, and Ollin maintained their silence, Nube, the grey cat embodying the essence of a cloud, offered a simple “Meow” — a testament, perhaps, to the timeless enigma that these regal felines embody.

From Cat Islands to Meow Meow Temples, Japan’s Love for Cats Knows No Bounds

In the land of the rising sun, an unmistakable obsession reigns supreme—cats. Japan’s infatuation with these enigmatic felines permeates every aspect of society, from art and literature to modern-day cafe culture. But what fuels this enduring fascination? Let’s see more on Japan’s unwavering love affair with cats below.

Cat Islands:

Aoshima, affectionately dubbed Cat Island, resides within the Ehime Prefecture, boasting a renowned feline community. With cats outnumbering humans at ratios ranging from 6:1 to 10:1, and potentially reaching a staggering 36:1 due to the passing of elderly residents, the island’s feline presence is undeniable. Despite these figures, as of May 2023, only five individuals call Aoshima home.

Yet, Aoshima isn’t the sole contender for the title of Cat Island. Tashirojima, a quaint island in the Miyagi Prefecture, also earns the moniker due to its sizable stray cat community. Notably, the island even hosts a revered cat shrine at its centre, further cementing its status as a feline haven.

The Meow Meow Temple:

Nyan Nyan-Ji, affectionately known as Meow Meow Temple, stands as a haven for cat lovers in Kyoto. This unique “temple” is adorned with real cats serving as honorary priests, delighting visitors with their playful interactions. Beyond its spiritual ambience, the temple doubles as an art gallery and cat café, offering a delightful fusion of culture and cuddly companionship. Here, patrons can savour kitty-themed culinary delights while surrounded by whimsical feline figures and objects, making it a purrfect destination for both art enthusiasts and cat aficionados alike.

The Rise of Cat Cafes:

A cat café offers a unique twist on the traditional café experience by making cats the main attraction. Customers typically pay an hourly cover fee and are treated to the opportunity to interact with furry feline friends while enjoying their coffee.

The concept of cat cafes originated in Taiwan in the 1990s, quickly gaining global popularity as a tourist hotspot. However, it wasn’t until the opening of the first cat café in Osaka, Japan, in 2004 that the trend truly flourished. Since then, Japan has taken the concept to new heights, with establishments offering specialised experiences such as cafes dedicated to specific cat types or breeds.

The rise of cat cafes in Japanese culture may be attributed to the widespread restrictions on pet ownership in apartments. These cafes provide a welcoming environment for individuals who are unable to have pets in their homes, offering them a chance to bond with adorable kitties in a cosy café setting.

Kawaii Culture and Cats:

Kawaii, the essence of cuteness in Japanese culture, encompasses a wide array of adorable and childlike elements, spanning products, anime, characters, handwriting, and beyond. While the kawaii aesthetic has long been a staple, its modern iteration has significantly contributed to Japan’s adoration for cats. With their petite frames, endearing expressions, and reliance on affection from their caretakers, small, fluffy animals perfectly encapsulate the essence of kawaii, resonating deeply with a subculture that cherishes all things cute.

Practicality of Cats as Pets:

In Japan, the notion of animals as cherished family members is a relatively recent development. Historically, pet ownership served a more utilitarian purpose, but today, pets are embraced as integral members of the household.

Given Japan’s status as one of the most densely populated nations, apartment living prevails in urban areas, with nearly 70% of Tokyo residents residing in apartments as of 2015. These dwellings typically offer limited space, often averaging around 700 square feet. Consequently, accommodating larger pets, such as dogs, becomes challenging, unless they belong to smaller breeds. Therefore, cats emerge as the ideal companions due to their compact size and minimal space requirements, making them well-suited for apartment living without the need for expansive outdoor areas.

As we delve deeper into Japan’s feline frenzy, it becomes clear that the nation’s love for cats transcends mere fascination—it’s a cultural phenomenon deeply ingrained in history, spirituality, and practicality. From the tranquil shores of Cat Islands to the bustling streets of Tokyo, cats continue to reign supreme, captivating the hearts of millions across the archipelago.

A Genuine Love Affair with Felines?

As we bid farewell to the regal felines of Mexico’s National Palace, our journey through the world of cats comes to a close. From the serene landscapes of Cat Islands to the bustling ambience of Meow Meow Temples in Japan, one thing remains abundantly clear: the universal allure of cats transcends borders, cultures, and time itself. As these furry companions continue to enchant and delight, their presence reminds us of the timeless bond between humans and their feline friends, a bond that knows no bounds.