Inside Singapore’s Cat Cafe Craze: A Visit to the Lovable Feline Haven in Bugis!
If you love cats and coffee, then Singapore’s cat cafe scene is the perfect place for you. In recent years, cat cafes have become increasingly popular in the Lion City, with many people flocking to venues that are home to adorable kitties and serve premium coffee at the same time. The cat cafe craze all started in Taiwan, where the first cat cafe opened its doors in 1998. Since then, the trend has spread to other parts of the world, and now Singapore has its own fair share of cat cafes.
During my recent visit to Singapore, I decided to check out one of the city’s most famous cat cafes, Cat Cafe Neko no Niwa, located in the bustling area of Bugis. I had heard a lot about this place from fellow cat lovers and was excited to finally see it for myself. Here is what my experience was like and everything you need to know about visiting a cat cafe in Singapore.
What is a Cat Cafe?
For those who are unfamiliar with the concept, a cat cafe is a place where you can enjoy your coffee or tea in the company of charming feline friends. You get to pet, cuddle and play with these cats while sipping your favorite beverage. Cat cafes are especially popular in urban centers where people don’t have the space or the time to keep a pet of their own.
Cat Cafe Neko no Niwa in Bugis
The first thing that struck me about Cat Cafe Neko no Niwa was its peaceful and serene atmosphere. The cafe’s interior was designed to mimic a Japanese garden ambiance, with greenery, plants, and soft lighting creating a cozy and comfortable environment. Despite being located in the bustling Bugis district, the cafe was an oasis of calm and serenity.
The cafe had two sections, a non-cat section where you could order food and drinks, and a cat section where visitors could play with the feline residents. To enter the cat section, visitors had to pay an entrance fee of SGD 12 per hour, which included a complimentary drink.
The cat section had about 13 cats of different breeds and personalities, ranging from calm and collected to playful and adventurous. The cats were all friendly and used to being around humans, making them very approachable and fun to play with. I noticed that each cat had a name tag with a brief description of their personality and breed, making it easier for visitors to identify and interact with them.
It was an absolute pleasure to watch the cats play, lounge, and interact with each other and with the visitors. The staff was very attentive, and they made sure that the cats were always comfortable and happy.
Tips for Visiting a Cat Cafe in Singapore
1. Make a reservation: Most cat cafes in Singapore require visitors to make reservations before visiting. This is to ensure that the cafe doesn’t get overcrowded and the cats don’t get overwhelmed.
2. Be respectful: Remember that the cats are not there solely for your entertainment. They are living creatures with their personalities, likes, dislikes, and moods. Be gentle, attentive, and respectful when interacting with them.
3. Don’t wake up sleeping cats: Cats love their naps, and they will often take a snooze during the day. If you see a cat sleeping, don’t disturb them, as they may get scared or aggressive.
4. Wash your hands: Before petting or playing with the cats, make sure that you have washed your hands or used hand sanitizer. This will prevent the spread of germs, and the cats will appreciate it as well.
5. Be mindful of allergies: If you have cat allergies, it’s best to stay away from cat cafes as the cats’ dander can trigger allergic reactions.
Conclusion
Cat cafes are a unique and heartwarming concept that combines two things that people love – cats and coffee. Visiting a cat cafe in Singapore is an enjoyable and soothing experience that allows you to spend quality time with adorable kitties while enjoying a warm cup of joe. The cafes are well-managed, hygienic, and fun for people of all ages. If you’re a cat lover, don’t miss the chance to visit one of Singapore’s many cat cafes.
