5 Things You Didn’t Know About Cat Cafés (But Should!)

If you’ve ever seen a cozy photo of someone sipping coffee surrounded by sleepy cats and thought “Wait, what is this place?” — welcome to the wonderful world of cat cafés. They're popping up all over the U.S., but even if you’ve heard of them, there’s a lot you probably don’t know.

Whether you're a local, a traveler, or just cat-curious, here are five surprising truths about cat cafés — and why one might be the most meaningful stop you make this month. 1. Most Cat Cafés Don’t Own the Cats — They Foster Them

It’s a common misconception that cat cafés own all their cats. In reality, most are working closely with local rescue groups or fostering them in-house until they're adopted.

At The Chatty Cat Café, every cat in the lounge is a rescue — many saved from overcrowded shelters or at-risk situations. (Ok - Zion is our one cat that is not adoptable, and we have adopted him purrmanently as our cat lounge manager due to his medical care needs.) We provide a cozy, home-like space where they can relax, decompress, and meet potential adopters in a stress-free environment. It’s not just coffee and cuddles — it’s a stepping stone to forever homes. It is a fantastic way to ensure perfect matches for potential adopters and a new feline companion. You fall in love with their personalities, not just their appearence. 2. You Don’t Have to Adopt to Make a Difference

One of the most powerful things about a cat café is that it allows everyone to play a role in animal rescue. Just by visiting, ordering a drink, or booking time in the lounge, you're helping fund the food, litter, vet care, and daily support these cats need.

Want to do even more? You can sponsor a cat for the month, join our Sticker Club, or become a Patreon supporter to help us rescue at-risk shelter cats. ➡️ See all the ways to help without adopting 3. It’s Not a Free-for-All — It’s Designed for the Cats’ Comfort

Cat cafés aren’t chaotic, overrun kitten circuses. In fact, most are calm, quiet, and intentionally designed to prioritize the cats' wellbeing.

At our café, the cat lounge is a peaceful, enrichment-focused space. Guests follow gentle guidelines, like letting sleeping cats lie and letting each cat choose how social they want to be. It’s one of the few places where you can truly relax — and the cats are free to just be cats. 4. They’re One of the Most Unique (and Feel-Good) Activities You Can Do Locally

Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a date, or just need a break from your day — visiting a cat café is an experience unlike any other. It’s soothing. It’s joyful. And it might just be what your nervous system needs this week.

In Zanesville, The Chatty Cat Café has become a community hub — with cozy drinks, adoptable cats, themed events, and more. It’s part coffee shop, part rescue mission, and completely unforgettable. 5. Every Cat You Meet Has a Story — And You Might Be Part of It

Every cat lounging in our space has come from somewhere. Some were abandoned. Some were pulled from open-intake shelters on euthanasia lists. Some were born into rough conditions and needed time to trust again. And many other stories.

Your visit helps write a new chapter in their story. Whether it’s the adoption moment, a calm place to heal, or the human connection they needed that day — you’re part of their journey.

Ready to Experience It for Yourself?

Whether you're a lifelong cat lover or just looking for a new weekend adventure, visiting a cat café isn’t just about sipping coffee with cute animals — it’s about impact, connection, and joy.

➡️ Book your visit ➡️ Become a lounge member ➡️ Sponsor a rescue cat

There’s a spot waiting for you (and a cat who might just claim it).