192 Chapter 12So, although cat cafés are popular with people, they are generally not a good idea
for cats. These establishments are, however, becoming increasingly popular and it
seems doubtful that the trend is likely to decline soon. Consequently, I feel that it is
important to provide some advice on how stress for cats in cat cafés and similar
establishments might be managed and minimized as best as possible.
Seek and follow expert help and advice
Before setting up and during the running of such a venture the proprietor will need
to seek help and advice from a wide range of other people. Where the welfare of the
cats is concerned, ensure that advice is sought from the right people, i.e. a veterinary
surgeon and/or nurse/technician with expertise and experience in feline health care,
and a qualified, experienced and reputable feline behaviourist.
Sourcing the cats
● The cats must be young, healthy, neutered, vaccinated and, very importantly, well
socialized with both people and other cats. Rescue cats with unknown history,
stray or feral cats are best avoided as they are much less likely to be able to cope
in a cat café environment.
● A group of cats that have grown up together, especially if they are related, are
more likely to be bonded and get along together. But this cannot be guaranteed
and even if they are closely bonded there can be no assurance that a strong bond
between them will persist.
● If the cats are not to be allowed outdoor access, it must be confirmed that they
have always been indoor cats and have shown no desire to venture outside. Cats
that have previously been allowed to go outside can soon become frustrated and
agitated if confined indoors.
Try to maintain a stable group
● As long as the cats appear to be getting along well, try not to disrupt the group,
but rehome any cats that are showing signs of not getting along with the others
(see Appendix 16), exhibiting aggression (towards people or other cats), or show-
ing any signs of stress (see Appendix 18).
● Options for rehoming to suitable homes must always be available as soon as pos-
sible for cats that are unwell or showing signs of stress, aggression or other behav-
iour problems.
● Any new cat must be introduced to the group carefully, in the same way as intro-
ducing a new cat to an ordinary home (see Appendix 5). The new cat should not
be let out into the café until it has been well accepted into the group and is itself
calm and relaxed around the other cats.
● Some cat cafés have cats from local shelters that are available for rehoming. The
intentions behind this may be commendable, but the constant changes to the