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Miami’s first cat cafe is open and we can’t even stand all the cuteness

You can get coffee at any café. But at this new Miami spot, you can also come home with a new best friend.

The Cat’s Meow Café is the city of Miami’s first cat café, one that aims to introduce animal lovers to shelter pets in need of homes.

The concept — a new partnership between owner Elizabeth Gallardo and Miami-Dade County Animal Services — is that prospective adopters can pet and get to know the kitties in an open, fun environment. The cats get play time and learn to interact with people (plus jump around on all those enticing ledges). All the cats are vaccinated and microchipped.

The people can drink beverages and eat vegan treats. The cats get a little affection and, if they’re lucky, a new family. It all works out.

Maisy and Loki greet each other on the ledges at the Cat’s Meow Café.
Maisy and Loki greet each other on the ledges at the Cat’s Meow Café.

The café originally opened in early March, but the grand opening was delayed because of the coronavirus pandemic. Despite such limitations, the café has managed to find homes for 50 cats so far, which is positive but just a fraction of what’s needed, considering the shelter takes in hundreds of pets each week.

“We are looking forward to continuing to find our furry feline Café residents their new families,” said Gallardo in a press release.

And if you’re not quite ready to adopt? That’s OK, too. Go for a little kitty cuddling time. The cats will appreciate it.

The Cat Lounge will be limited to eight people max, so your best bet is to reserve your time online.

Cat’s Meow Café

Where: 7541 Biscayne Blvd, Miami

Hours: Noon-7 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday

Cost: $17 for an hour in the cat lounge; private family packages available

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Connie Ogle
Miami Herald
Connie Ogle loves wine, books and the Miami Heat. Please don’t make her eat a mango.
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