‘Bodega Cats of New York’ Advocates for the City’s Beloved Feline Shopkeepers
A new book from Dan Rimada, with photos by Gulce Kilkis, is slated for release in November. Do stories and artists like this matter to you? Become a Colossal Member today and support independent arts publishing for as little as $7 per month. The article ‘Bodega Cats of New York’ Advocates for the City’s Beloved Feline Shopkeepers appeared first on Colossal .
In 2022, New Yorker Dan Rimada took it upon himself to highlight the city's feline population, particularly those living in iconic bodega shops. Despite the fact that New York City deems it a health code violation to have animals in food-serving establishments, thousands of cats serve as effective mousers and rat catchers. Rimada founded Bodega Cats of New York with the aim of bringing attention to these unofficial shop employees.
A new book by Epic Ink, published this fall, features 120 photos of 60 cats from all five boroughs, accompanied by their individual stories. The photos, taken by photographer Gulce Kilkis and shared on Instagram, capture the range of experiences these cats have, from being treated like royalty to being tolerated as interlopers. Rimada's mission encompasses both documenting these cats and advocating for their well-being.
Two bills, facilitated by Rimada, are currently in committee to address their status. One bill would prevent New York City agencies from treating cats in retail food stores as automatic Health Code violations, while the other would allow cats in retail stores provided they meet veterinary requirements. Rimada emphasizes the importance of protecting what makes New York City feel like home, which includes taking care of the cats that are a part of it. The book is set to release in early November, and more feline friends can be met on Instagram.
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