Have you heard of the right meow trend taking over the southland? Cuddling with adorable kittens and playing string-on-a-feather chase with cats in an open environment where the scratching posts are many and the cats roam freely? Yes, please!
Taiwan introduced the first cat cafe in the late nineties, but it was Japan that turned the furry idea into the worldwide craze it has become today. Due to tight cities and no-pet regulations at many apartments, these centers became the purr-fect place for animal lovers to get their snuggle on.
US Cat Cafes are a mash-up that crosses a coffee shop with a pet adoption center. Most of these centers have cats from local shelters, rescue groups, strays, and owner surrenders who are in need of furever homes. There is usually a coffee bar in a separate area that offers traditional cafe products such as lattes and baked goods.
Southern Californians have expanded on the cozy catastic idea and taken it to a whole new level. Some local cafes offer full workstations so that you can spend the entire day surrounded by fellow feline fanatics. After the grind, grab an adult beverage during happy hour while Mr. Whiskers circles your feet. You can spend an anniversary with your sweetie during a private cuddle party as you lounge about on fluffy pillow clouds surrounded by kittens. Save downward dog for the gym and take a kitty yoga class or hop aboard the mobile cat café truck to give a rescue cat some good ole TLC.
Next time you are looking for a quick pick-me-up, get in some cat time with your caffeine. Check websites for operating hours, adoption rules, fees, and to book private events.
Cat Cafes to Visit:
Cat Cafe Lounge | Los Angeles
Catmosphere Laguna | Laguna Beach
Crumbs & Whiskers | Los Angeles
Feline Good Social Club | Long Beach
Knead Catffeine | Chino Hills
Moon Cat Cafe | LA & OC (mobile)
The Cat Cafe | San Diego
The Purrfect Cat Cafe | Camarillo