In Japan, it is very common to find several neko cafes on the streets, or in other words, cat cafes. This trend emerged in Japan due to the prohibition of owning pets in most Japanese homes and residential complexes. The main idea of these establishments is to be able to play with and pet these felines. Upon entering, customers pay for their stay by the hour. The perfect place for cat lovers, where you can relax and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Image: Polineko
This trend has also reached Spain. In 2013, the first cat cafe in Madrid opened, La Gatoteca, located in the Lavapiés neighborhood. It is a non-profit association that aims to help homeless cats find a new family. Additionally, they offer a wide variety of educational, therapeutic, and recreational activities related to the feline world.
The love for these felines has grown, and last October, another neko cafe opened, this time in the La Latina neighborhood, Polineko. While enjoying a coffee or tea accompanied by some Japanese snacks, you can have a pleasant time playing with and petting the cats at the establishment. The main goal of this bar is to promote the adoption of cats of all ages. Furthermore, you can find books, comics, board games, and anime products characteristic of Japanese culture. At Polineko, you pay based on the time you intend to stay, and a drink is always included.
Image: Polineko
But we don't only find these types of establishments in Madrid; in Valencia, a neko bar also opened last year, El Passatge del Gats. Located at C/ Turia Nº 28, it is the city's first Cat Cafe. Together with the ADAANA Protectora, they seek to improve the situation of abandoned cats in the city. El Passatge Dels Gats collaborates by offering shelter, care, and affection to rescued cats until they find a new home. As in other neko cafes, you pay an entrance fee based on the time you wish to stay at the establishment.
Image: El Passatge del Gats
Although in these establishments the ARISTOCATS receive the necessary care and protection, these bars should only be a place of transit until they find a new home where they can receive the affection and attention they deserve.