In Japan, it is very common to find several neko cafés along the streets, or, in other words, cat cafés. This trend emerged in Japan because of the prohibition on keeping pets in most Japanese homes and residential complexes. The main idea behind these establishments is to give people the chance to play with and pet these felines. Upon entering, customers pay for their stay by the hour. The perfect place for cat lovers, where they can relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Image: Polineko
This trend has also arrived in Spain. In 2013, the first cat café in Madrid opened, La Gatoteca, located in the Lavapiés district. It is a nonprofit association that aims to help homeless cats find a new family. It also offers a wide variety of educational, therapeutic, and recreational activities related to the feline world.
The love for these felines has been growing, and another neko café opened last October, this time in the La Latina district: Polineko. While enjoying coffee or tea accompanied by some Japanese snacks, you can spend a pleasant time playing with and petting the cats at the café. The main objective of this bar is to promote the adoption of cats of all ages. You can also find books, comics and board games, as well as anime products characteristic of Japanese culture. At Polineko, you pay according to how long you stay, and a drink is always included.
Image: Polineko
But these kinds of establishments are not only found in Madrid; Valencia also opened a neko bar last year, El Passatge del Gats. Located at C/ Turia No. 28, it is the city's first Cat Café. Together with ADAANA Animal Shelter, they aim to improve the situation of the city's abandoned cats. El Passatge Dels Gats helps by providing shelter, care, and affection to rescued cats until they find a new home. As in other neko cafés, you pay an admission fee based on how long you want to stay.
Image: El Passatge del Gats
Although ARISTOCATS receive the necessary care and protection in these establishments, these bars should only be a temporary stop until they find a new home where they can receive the love and attention they deserve.