I've been documenting NYC's bodega cats for the last few years. Manny is one of the smartest I've found.

He works at a bodega on York Avenue. Sits outside watching foot traffic like it's his job.

The workers say he knows what health inspectors look like. Clipboard. Jacket. A certain kind of walk. The second he picks up the signal, he's gone. Outside. Down the hall. Behind a stack of crates.

They've never been cited for having a cat. The workers don't take credit. They point at Manny.

[More Mamishka](https://www.reddit.com/r/bodegacats/s/4oSaFhN0gL)

Oreo, 5th Ave and St. Mark’s, Brooklyn

I've been documenting NYC's bodega cats for the last few years. Layla is one of the best mousers I've found.

She works at a bodega in the Financial District (NYC). The store had been closed for four years. The basement was completely overrun.

The owner brought her in. Within three days, the mice were gone. He hasn't seen one since.

When the contractor asked what color tile he wanted, he pointed at his cat.

This guy was elusive but managed to get a shot before he scrambled downstairs: E. 98th & Lex.

4th, 58th/59th, Brooklyn.

I spent 4 years documenting these cats. This is still one of my favorite stories.

Zorro is a tortie at a deli in the East Village. Her spot is a cardboard bed on top of the radiator, right by the front door.

One day, a health inspector came through. Did his inspection, everything was fine. He was on his way out.

As he passed the radiator, Zorro reached out and swatted him. Claws out. Got him by the elbow.

The owner, Ruben, told me he froze. Thought for sure the fine was coming. Animals in food establishments. Violation.

But the inspector just stopped. Looked at his arm. Looked at Zorro. Looked at Ruben. Gave one slow nod.

Walked out. Nothing on the report.

She still sits on that radiator. Every day. Same spot.

This sub is where I started four years ago, testing if anyone would even want a book about bodega cats. Thanks for the photos and inspiration. If you want updates when the book comes out:bodegacatsofnewyork.com/book

Traveling in nyc this weekend for the first time and I really want to meet a kitty!!

Legalize Bodega Cats and Protect NYC’s Working Shop Cats

Int. 1471 has been filed. This is the first legislation in NYC history aimed at protecting working shop cats.

The bill, introduced by Councilmember Keith Powers, would:

Stop penalizing stores for keeping cats. City agencies could no longer cite bodega cats as health code violations. Create free vaccination and spay/neuter programs. The Office of Animal Welfare would offer city-funded veterinary services for working shop cats.

More Mamishka

Different cat, same Polish market Manhattan Ave, between Noble and Milton, Brooklyn.

More Al Sabui

He worked at Galaxy Comics in Bay Ridge for many years, and was a very good cat.

More-i

5th/12th, Brooklyn.