New Book Will Feature NYC Bodega Cat Layla
A new release documenting city working cats highlights a feline resident of Bull's Mini Market.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Cats
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The book 'Bodega Cats of New York: Portraits and Stories from New York City's Working Cats' will be released on November 3, 2026. The publication features Layla, a resident cat who works at Bull's Mini Market on Maiden Lane.
Why it matters
The book chronicles the unique role these animals play in local businesses across New York City. The project showcases how these cats are integrated into the daily operations and environment of city stores.
The cat Layla successfully cleared the store basement of mice in just 3 days after her arrival. During a renovation, the shop owner specifically selected floor colors designed to match the feline's coat.
The players
Layla
She is the resident cat at Bull's Mini Market who is featured in an upcoming book about city working cats.
Dan Rimada
He is the author of a new book that captures the stories of various bodega cats across New York City.
Gulce Kilkis
She provided the photography for the new book focusing on the working cats of New York City.
The details
Author Dan Rimada and photographer Gulce Kilkis collaborated on this volume, which profiles working cats throughout the city. At Bull's Mini Market, the owner credits the cat with eliminating a persistent rodent issue that had previously plagued the basement.
Timeline
In 2022, the author began collecting details on bodega cats.
The book will be released on November 3, 2026.
Culture Shift
This book highlights the historical role of bodega cats as urban rodent control within the city. It represents a shift from viewing these animals simply as utility workers to recognizing their place in local cultural documentation.
Readers can purchase the book to gain insight into the stories of local working animals in their own neighborhoods. The release offers residents a chance to celebrate the specific felines that serve their local markets.
The takeaway
Understanding the unique relationship between shop owners and their resident cats provides a deeper appreciation for small business culture in the city. Readers can observe their own local markets to see how these animals serve as both pest control and companions.
Further reading
Learn more about local pet culture in New York City Cats.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Tribeca Citizen.
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