Adopting a Cat from a Café: What to Expect and How to Prepare

If you’ve ever visited a cat café, you know there’s something magical about sipping a warm cup of coffee while surrounded by adorable, adoptable cats. But what if one of those cats steals your heart? Adopting from a cat café is a unique and rewarding experience that allows you to bond with your future pet before bringing them home.


At The Cat Cafe, our mission is to help rescue cats find loving homes while providing a relaxing and enriching environment for both visitors and felines. If you’re thinking about adopting a cat from a café, here’s everything you need to know about the process and how to prepare for your new furry friend.

1. What to Expect During Your Visit

Unlike traditional shelters, cat cafés offer a stress-free, home-like setting where cats can freely roam, play, and interact with visitors. This setup allows cats to show off their true personalities, giving you a better idea of how they might fit into your home.


Meeting the Cats

  • Upon entering the café, you’ll have time to observe and interact with different cats in a relaxed environment.
  • Some cats may immediately seek attention, while others might take time to warm up. Let them approach you at their own pace.
  • If you’re interested in adoption, consider how a cat behaves around people, other cats, and different stimuli.


Asking the Right Questions

Our staff knows the café cats well and can help match you with a cat that fits your lifestyle. Some good questions to ask include:

  • What is this cat’s personality like?
  • Does this cat get along with other pets?
  • Has this cat shown any specific behavioral quirks (shyness, playfulness, etc.)?
  • What kind of food, litter, or routines does this cat prefer?
  • Does this cat have any medical history or special needs?


Filling Out an Adoption Application

If you find a cat you’d like to adopt, you’ll fill out an application. This ensures that the adoption is the right match for both you and the cat. Most cat cafés partner with local rescues, so the rescue organization may review applications before final approval.


2. How to Prepare for Bringing Your New Cat Home

Once your adoption is approved, it’s time to prepare for your new feline companion! Here are some essential steps to ensure a smooth transition:


Setting Up a Safe Space

Moving to a new home can be overwhelming for a cat. Before bringing them home, set up a quiet, cozy area where they can adjust at their own pace. This space should include: 

  • A comfortable bed or blanket
  •  A litter box in a low-traffic area
  • Food and water bowls
  • Scratching posts or pads
  • Hiding spots, such as a cardboard box or covered cat bed


Gathering Essential Supplies

Stock up on the basics before your cat arrives:

  •  High-quality cat food (ask what they’ve been eating at the café to make a gradual transition if needed)
  • A sturdy carrier for safe transport
  • Litter and a litter scoop
  • A variety of toys for play and mental stimulation
  • A scratching post or cat tree
  • A brush or grooming tool (especially for long-haired cats)


Introducing Your Cat to Their New Home

🐾 Start small: For the first few days, keep your cat in a single quiet room while it gets used to new smells and sounds.
🐾 Go at their pace: Let your cat explore gradually—some may adjust quickly, while others need more time.
🐾 Use positive reinforcement: Encourage interaction with treats, toys, and gentle petting when they’re ready.
🐾 Avoid overwhelming them: Introduce family members slowly and calmly. If you have other pets, introduce them gradually and under supervision.


3. Helping Your Cat Adjust to Their New Life

Give Them Time to Acclimate

Cats adopted from a café environment may take time to settle into their new home. Be patient! Some common behaviors you might notice:

  • Hiding: It’s normal for cats to hide under furniture or in quiet corners at first. Give them time and space to feel safe.
  • Exploring Slowly: Your cat may sniff around cautiously before feeling comfortable enough to roam freely.
  • Changes in Appetite: Some cats may eat less during the transition, but this should improve within a few days.


Building Trust and Routine

Cats thrive on routine. Establish consistent feeding times and gentle interaction to build trust. Playtime and positive reinforcement (treats, gentle petting, or soft-spoken praise) will help your cat feel at home.


Scheduling a Vet Visit

Even if your cat has received medical care through the rescue, scheduling a check-up with your veterinarian within the first few weeks is a good idea. They can provide health recommendations, discuss vaccinations, and ensure your cat adjusts well.


4. Why Adopting from a Cat Café is Special

You See the Cat’s True Personality

Unlike shelter cages, café settings allow cats to roam freely, interact, and express their natural behavior. This helps you find a cat whose personality matches your lifestyle.


Your Adoption Helps Other Cats

When you adopt a cat from a café, you’re not just giving one cat a home—you’re also making space for another rescue cat to take their place in the café and find their forever family.



You’re Supporting a Good Cause

Most cat cafés partner with local rescues, so your adoption fee helps provide medical care, food, and shelter for other rescue cats in need.

Conclusion: A Lifetime of Love Awaits

Adopting a cat from a café is a heartwarming experience that brings joy to both you and your new feline companion. By observing, asking questions, and preparing for their transition, you’re setting the foundation for a loving, lifelong bond.



At The Cat Cafe, we believe in creating meaningful connections between people and rescue cats. Whether you’re here for a coffee break or searching for your next furry family member, we’re here to help make the adoption process as smooth and rewarding as possible.


Ready to meet your purr-fect match? Visit The Cat Cafe today and find your new best friend!

Creating the Perfect Cat Café Experience at Home: DIY Tips for Coffee and Cat Lovers

April 7, 2025
There’s nothing quite like the cozy, calming vibe of a cat café—purring cats, the gentle aroma of freshly brewed coffee, and a laid-back space that feels like a little slice of heaven. But what if you could bring that peaceful café magic into your own home? Whether you're a devoted cat parent or just dreaming of those cat café vibes between visits to Cat & Craft, we’ve got the ultimate DIY guide to help you create the perfect at-home cat café experience.  Let’s blend your love for cats and coffee into a relaxing ritual that you (and your feline friends) can enjoy every day. ☕ Step 1: Set the Mood with a Coffee Ritual Cat cafés are as much about the coffee as they are about the cats. Here’s how to elevate your home-brew game: Upgrade Your Brew Method Choose a method that fits your style and brings you joy—whether it’s a pour-over, French press, AeroPress, or espresso machine. The process of making your coffee can be a soothing part of your morning ritual. Pro Tip: Support local! Buy small-batch or locally roasted beans to recreate that café-quality flavor at home. Create a Coffee Station Designate a cute corner or cart for your coffee gear. Include: Your favorite mug(s) A jar of beans or grounds Brewing tools A small plant or framed quote for ambiance A sprinkle of cat-themed decor, naturally 🐾 Try a Café-Inspired Drink Menu Recreate some café classics—or invent your own feline-themed brews! Purr-over Coffee Mew-chiato (Macchiato with a touch of vanilla) Catpuccino (Cappuccino with cinnamon) Kitten Cold Brew (Cold brew with a splash of oat milk) Make it a weekend treat to experiment with different flavors, syrups, or latte art (even if it’s just a heart that vaguely looks like a paw print). 🐱 Step 2: Make Your Home a Cat Paradise Your cat deserves the VIP lounge experience too! Here’s how to create an enriching and comfortable environment they’ll love to hang out in—especially while you sip your coffee nearby. Design a Cozy Cat Corner Choose a sunny window or quiet space to create a chill-out zone for your cat: Add a soft blanket or bed Place a scratching post or cardboard scratcher nearby Use a window perch or shelf to give them a view of the outside world Tuck in a few favorite toys or even a tunnel for variety Bonus: Add a diffuser with pet-safe calming scents (like lavender or chamomile) for a spa-like touch. Vertical Space is Key Cats love to climb and observe from above. Install wall-mounted cat shelves, a tall cat tree, or a multi-level condo to give them a sense of ownership over the space. Rotate Toys for Enrichment Just like we get bored of the same TV shows, cats can tire of the same toys. Keep things fresh by rotating a few new toys each week—wand toys, puzzle feeders, and interactive balls can keep them entertained while you sip your brew. 🛋️ Step 3: Set the Vibe The atmosphere of a cat café is warm, peaceful, and inviting—here’s how to bring that same energy to your home: Soft Lighting: Use warm string lights, table lamps, or candles (battery-operated for safety!) to set a cozy mood. Background Music: Create a relaxing playlist of soft jazz, acoustic coffeehouse tunes, or ambient cat café sounds (yes, they exist!). Comfy Seating: Add cushions, throws, or even a floor pouf to make your cat café space cozy for both of you. 📖 Step 4: Unplug and Be Present One of the best parts of visiting a cat café is the chance to slow down and unplug. Make your at-home café experience screen-free, even if it’s just for 20 minutes. Read a book or magazine Journal with your cat curled up beside you Simply sit and sip while watching your cat nap or play This quiet, intentional time is good for your mental health and strengthens your bond with your cat. 🐾 Bonus: Invite a Friend (Human or Feline!) You’re already halfway to a full-blown cat café if you've got multiple cats. You could even host a “Caturday Brunch” with a fellow cat-loving friend—coffee, pastries, and plenty of purrs included. 🏠 Conclusion: Cat Café Vibes, Anytime You Want Recreating the cat café experience at home is easier than you think—and it’s a great way to slow down, appreciate the little things, and spend quality time with your favorite furry companion. Whether it’s a full Sunday morning ritual or a simple weekday coffee break, blending your love of cats and coffee is always a win. Want more inspiration? Stop by Cat & Craft for your next fix of cozy, caffeinated, cat-filled vibes—and take those ideas home with you! Tag us on Instagram with your home cat café setup using #MyCatCafeAtHome—we’d love to see your cozy creations! 🐱☕🛋️
A cat is laying down and looking at the camera

Roly Poly will Amaze You with His Speed

April 4, 2025
I'm a small boy, but if you come in to meet me, you'll see why it took the staff at a Costco the full day to be able to get me on my way to a better life than their parking lot. I love to run around and play with toys. If you're not careful, you might find that I think your shoelaces are toys. When I'm not doing that, I sometimes will find a toy to play with on my own.  I've got two speeds, on or off. And when I'm done playing, I like to nap under a chair or in an enclosed space. Because I'm small, sometimes, people can't find me. Come by and meet me and see which mode I'm in.

Say Hello to Resident Cats Jacey and Leo

March 19, 2025
One of the first things you'll notice about us is the striking markings we both have. That's because we're bengal cats. And because of our age and how strongly we've attached ourselves to the people who work here, we're not available for adoption. Jacey was living in a home with a veterinarian, but when one of the children went off to boarding school, she found ways to entertain herself. One of those ways was to sneak out of the house to climb onto the roof of the home. Her person realized this couldn't continue, and sadly sought a home for her. She made her way to San Diego and has been a resident cat for many years now. You'll notice some scarring on the left side of her face due to radiation therapy that took care of a nasal lymphoma. Despite her age and the cancer treatment, Jacey still runs around and plays like a cat ten years younger than her. Leo found himself abandoned in an empty house when his people moved. Because he was left behind after eight years, he was depressed when he arrived at The Cat Cafe. He didn't eat enough to keep his weight at a healthy level initially. But as he learned to trust the people on staff, he began to eat enough to sustain himself. That's why the veterinarians said Leo should stay with us at The Cat Cafe. While neither of these cats are adoptable, they're good ambassadors for their breed and they give return visitors a pair of cats they can look forward to seeing.
A woman is looking at a cat on a cat tree

The Importance of Cat Enrichment: Keeping Your Feline Friend Happy and Healthy

February 17, 2025
Cats may seem independent, but they need mental and physical stimulation to thrive. They can become bored, stressed, or even develop behavioral issues without proper enrichment. Whether you have a playful kitten or a laid-back senior cat, engaging their natural instincts through toys, activities, and interactive spaces is essential for their well-being. At The Cat Cafe , we prioritize cat enrichment to ensure our feline residents stay happy, active, and healthy while they await their forever homes. What is Cat Enrichment? Cat enrichment refers to activities and environments that stimulate a cat’s natural behaviors, such as hunting, exploring, climbing, and problem-solving. Without these outlets, cats can become bored, leading to stress, excessive sleeping, overeating, or destructive behaviors. Why is Enrichment Important? Prevents Boredom & Stress – A mentally engaged cat is a happy cat. Enrichment helps reduce anxiety and prevents negative behaviors like over-grooming or aggression. Encourages Natural Instincts – Cats are natural hunters and explorers. Enrichment allows them to use these instincts in a safe and controlled environment. Provides Exercise & Promotes Health – Interactive play helps prevent obesity and supports a cat’s overall well-being. Strengthens the Human-Cat Bond – Engaging with your cat through toys and activities builds trust and enhances your relationship. Ways to Enrich Your Cat’s Life at Home Want to provide a stimulating environment for your cat? Here are some simple and effective ways to incorporate enrichment into their daily routine: 1. Interactive Toys Cats love toys that mimic prey. Rotate different types of toys to keep things interesting: Wand Toys: Great for mimicking birds or small animals, encouraging cats to chase and pounce. Puzzle Feeders & Treat Dispensers: These challenge your cat’s mind and reward problem-solving. Ball & Track Toys: Perfect for self-play and encouraging movement. Catnip or Silvervine Toys: Some cats are highly stimulated by catnip, leading to bursts of playful energy. 2. Climbing & Scratching Areas Cats love vertical spaces—they help them feel safe and provide a great vantage point. Consider: Cat Trees & Wall Shelves: Give your cat a place to climb, perch, and observe. Scratching Posts & Pads: Satisfy their instinct to scratch while protecting your furniture. Window Perches: Let them enjoy watching birds and outdoor activity. 3. Hiding & Exploration Opportunities Providing spaces where your cat can hide or explore adds excitement to their day. Try: Cat Tunnels & Boxes: These create safe spots for stalking and ambushing “prey.” Paper Bags & Crinkle Tunnels: Cheap and entertaining ways to encourage exploration. Rotating Hiding Spots: Changing their environment (moving furniture slightly or introducing new textures) can keep things fresh. 4. Social Interaction & Playtime Every cat has a different personality—some love attention, while others prefer independent play. Regardless, spending at least 10-15 minutes a day actively engaging with your cat strengthens your bond and keeps them stimulated. Chase & Fetch Games: Some cats enjoy fetching small toys. Training with Treats: Yes, you can train a cat! Teaching simple commands like “sit” or “high five” using positive reinforcement can be mentally stimulating. Companion Cats: If your cat is social, another feline friend could provide companionship and play. 5. Sensory Stimulation Keeping your cat’s senses engaged can prevent boredom: Music & Nature Sounds: Some cats enjoy soft music or bird-watching videos. Outdoor Exploration: A secure outdoor catio or leash training allows for safe adventures. New Scents & Textures: Introducing new objects, blankets, or scents can engage curiosity. How The Cat Cafe Provides Enrichment for Café Cats At The Cat Cafe , we go beyond providing a cozy resting space for our resident cats—we create an interactive, enriching environment that helps them stay mentally and physically engaged while they wait for adoption. 1. A Multi-Level Play Space Our café features cat trees, shelves, and perches that encourage natural climbing and exploration. Cats love to survey their surroundings from high vantage points, and our design allows them to do so comfortably. 2. Interactive Toys & Play Sessions We keep various interactive toys available, and our staff and visitors engage in play sessions to help the cats burn off energy. Wand toys, laser pointers, and rolling balls keep them active and engaged. 3. Cozy Hideaways & Cubbies Not all cats are social butterflies—some prefer their own quiet space. We’ve created cozy nooks where shy or tired cats can retreat and feel secure. 4. Socialization & Human Interaction Many of our adoptable cats come from shelters or foster homes, so they benefit from the gentle interactions with visitors. This helps them become more comfortable around people, making it easier for them to transition into a forever home. 5. Enriching Adoption Process By allowing potential adopters to observe and interact with cats in a natural, enriching environment, we help match people with the right feline companion based on their energy level, play style, and personality. Conclusion: A Happy Cat is an Enriched Cat Cat enrichment is not just about play—it’s about meeting your cat’s physical and emotional needs. Whether through interactive toys, climbing spaces, social interaction, or sensory stimulation, creating an engaging environment ensures your feline friend remains happy, healthy, and mentally stimulated. At The Cat Cafe , we believe that every cat deserves an enriching life. Whether you’re visiting for a coffee or looking to adopt, our café provides a space where cats can thrive and showcase their unique personalities. Looking for inspiration to enrich your own cat’s life? Stop by The Cat Cafe to see enrichment in action —or better yet, find a feline friend to take home and create a stimulating space together! 🐾☕