The owner of Nottingham’s first cat cafe says she hopes it has proved doubters wrong as its first birthday approaches.
The opening of the Kitty Cafe, on Friar Lane, was delayed last year while work to convert the building was completed.
It proved hugely popular when it did get going in February, with shoppers drawn in by its offering of an eye-catching cuppa and re-homing service for the animals.
But some animal groups expressed concern about the eye-catching venture.
The Cats Protection Nottingham Adoption Centre manager worried that keeping naturally solitary cats in a busy environment could damage their health.
The claim was rejected by owner Kate Charles-Richards, who says enough quiet spaces are provided.
Today about 30 cats are at the cafe, including a handful of kittens who were abandoned by owners.
Kate says the venue now has agreements with several vets and rescue centres to help find animals in need new homes.
There are also staff members whose work is dedicated only to cat welfare.
Of course, we get to play with the cats
Kate Said: “It can be quite scary to do something new in today’s climate, there’s a lot of factors that go into it.
“Me and my husband work seven days a week. We are here all day every day just to ensure we are on the ground and know what’s happening and we’re fully involved in the business. And, of course, we get to play with the cats.”
She added another branch is to open later this year, although the location has not yet been decided.
