Rat Week: How bodega cats impact the rat population
News 12 is looking at how bodega cats impact the rat population at your local store.
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News 12 visited various bodegas in the Bronx and found that not every store had a cat - but all of the employees agreed that cats help keep the rats out.
The Department of Sanitation says citywide rat sightings have decreased this year compared to last, thanks to containerization of trash.
However, employees at a Soundview bodega say the store's black-and-white kitten named Michi keeps unwanted visitors out.
Pearla Paulino says she's witnessed Michi kill big rats, cockroaches and birds.
Another bodega employee says he's worked in five different stores - and having a cat is non-negotiable.
Other people News 12 spoke to off camera say it's a health hazard for people with cat allergies, but still bodega employees say without cats, the rats win.
