Bodega cat facts for kids
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A bodega cat is a special kind of cat that lives in a store. These stores are often called "bodegas" or "delis," especially in New York City. You might also hear them called "deli cats," "store cats," or even "the manager" or "the boss"!
Bodega cats are a type of working cat. This means they have a job to do. Their main job is to help keep the store free of pests like mice and rats. They are a natural way to control these pests, which is called biological pest control. Most bodega cats are mixed-breed cats, not fancy purebreds.
Some bodega cats are pets that the store owner keeps. Others might be cats that live mostly outside but are fed regularly by the owner, so they stay around the store.
What Do Bodega Cats Do?
Bodega cats are like helpful employees for the store. Their main role is to scare away or catch rodents. This helps keep the store clean and prevents damage to food or other products. Having a cat can be a very effective way to manage pests without using chemicals.
Why Do Stores Have Them?
Many store owners choose to have a bodega cat because they see them as a good solution for pest problems. Rodents can cause a lot of trouble in a store. They can chew through food packages and spread germs. A cat helps to keep these pests away. Even though there are rules about animals in stores, many owners feel a cat is better than having mice or rats.
Are Bodega Cats Allowed?
In places like New York City, health departments have rules about animals in stores that sell food. These rules usually say that live animals are not allowed where food is sold. This is to make sure the food stays clean and safe for people to eat. The only exceptions are usually service animals or fish kept in tanks.
Because of these rules, having a bodega cat can sometimes lead to a fine for the store owner. For example, in New York City, a store could get a fine of $200 to $350 for having a cat. However, having a rodent problem can also lead to a fine, sometimes even $300. Many store owners believe that a cat is a better way to deal with pests than having to pay fines for rodents. So, even with the rules, you can still find many bodega cats in stores across New York City.
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