Odessa

and the city wants delis to "fire" them. They complain very little, don't demand vacation time or O/T pay, and may even put a smile on a few customers' faces. They are the deli cats.

http://gothamist.com/2007/12/21/cats_in_delis.php

I have been in delis with cats. I would much prefer a well behaved cat over mice and rats in a deli any day of the week, but alas, NY State and NYC law forbids animals in establishments that serve food. I would make a lousy health inspector since I think the law is silly.

I have cats and I'm not suffering from any illnesses from having them share my house - including the kitchen and dining room. Since my one cat has figured out the whole catching mice thing, I don't find mouse poop in my basement - I like that.