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NYC Fines for Rat-Hunting Cats

Inspectors charge $300 and up for feline guardians

By Kevin Spak, Newser Staff

Posted Dec 22, 2007 2:32 PM CST

(Newser) – New York food shops and delis have a way to deal with rats, but health inspectors aren’t purring: Many NYC stores have a cat around to keep out rodents, the New York Times reports. Unfortunately, health inspectors frown on cats and rats with equal fervor. “Any animal around food presents a contamination threat,” one rodentologist explained.

If inspectors find a cat, fines start at $300—the same penalty rodent feces incur. But shop owners tend to fear rodents more, and prefer cats to exterminators. “[The inspector] wants me to get rid of the cat, but the rats will take over if I do,” one grocer lamented. “I need the cat, and the cat needs a home.”

[Images (3)]

[Videos (1)]

At this show store, a cat is a welcome addition, but in restaurants it could earn the owners a ticket. (Getty Images)

A cat keeps a grip on his victim in this undated file photo. (Index Stock)

A feline sits for the camera in this undated file photo. (Getty Images)

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How bad is the rat problem in New York City? This bad. (wwekrazy (YouTube))

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NYC Fines for Rat-Hunting Cats

Inspectors charge $300 and up for feline guardians

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