Play with cats at these 6 cafes and lounges
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
One of many rescue cats at Cattfeinated Cat Cafe in Greensburg. Photo: Courtesy of Cattfeinated Cafe
If you're into cats, coffee and camaraderie, you're in luck with these Pittsburgh-area cat cafes and lounges.
Why it matters: Cafes help socialize adoptable rescue cats in a free-roaming environment — an alternative to traditional shelters.
- Plus, science shows interacting with animals can lower blood pressure, reduce stress hormones and increase feelings of social support.
How it works: You'll likely be asked to make a reservation and sign a waiver recognizing the cats may use their teeth or claws.
- Each cafe has its own rules and beverage selections.
- The cats are already spayed or neutered and vaccinated.
- Adoption costs are typically $65-$150.
Why we like it: Black Cat Market partners with Frankie's Friends to find homes for rescued cats from all walks of life, including older cats and those with specific needs.
- The cafe hosts events like yoga, paint nights, poetry readings and craft fairs.
- The cats have the best names, like Cheez-It and Able, Fable, Mable and Sable.
If you go:
- Address: 5135 Penn Ave., Garfield
- Cost: $9 for 30 minutes.
- Reservations: Make reservations here.
Why we like it: The cafe partners with Wayward Whiskers to find homes for rescues and has an on-site thrift shop and pet-themed merch for sale.
- It's Westmoreland County's first cat cafe, offering two cat rooms and a full coffee bar with baked goods and seating.
If you go:
- Address: 159 E. Otterman St., Greensburg
- Cost: $10 for 45 minutes.
- Reservations: Make reservations here.
Why we like it: It's a cat rescue that takes in surrenders and strays through a foster network and helps them find permanent homes.
- The lounge hosts events like sound baths with cats, bingo and book clubs.
If you go:
- Address: 4552 McKnight Road, Suite 400, Ross Township
- Cost: $5 for 1 hour.
- Reservations: Make reservations here.
Why we like it: This budget-friendly cafe has snacks, beverages and cat-themed books and games available while you visit adoptable rescue cats.
Zoom in: No appointments needed.
If you go:
- Address: 104-106 E. Swissvale Ave., Edgewood
- Cost: Pay what you can.
Why we like it: Cats N'At works with rescue Conquer the Colony to find homes for foster cats.
- There's a cat lovers' boutique and an area separate from the lounge filled with games and books.
- It hosts events like coloring with cats, reiki, yoga and private parties.
Zoom in: The lounge doesn't offer food or drinks, but visitors are welcome to bring their own or have it delivered.
If you go:
- Address: 73 Shenot Road, Wexford
- Cost: $10 for 30 minutes.
- Reservations: Make reservations here.
Why we like it: Pittsburgh's newest cat lounge opened in late January in Bellevue.
- It has several visiting rooms, including one with kittens.
- The lounge features murals created by local artists and hosts events like Full Moon parties.
- "Visitors can come just to pet cats, to work/study, spend time with friends, or to potentially adopt," its website says.
Zoom in: These adoptable cats were rescued by owner Anna Montano, who also works with Conquer the Colony to provide vet care.
If you go:
- Address: 51 N. Balph Ave., Bellevue
- Cost: $15 for 1 hour.
- Reservations: Make reservations here.