A new cat café opening in Whitchurch is set to blend feline companionship with a mission with a heart: supporting local animal rescue initiatives. Purrfect Harmony Café, slated to open next month on High Street, will partner with nearby shelters to raise funds and awareness for homeless cats while offering a cozy space for visitors.
Furry Mission: Café to Donate Profits to Rescues
Owned by animal advocate Lisa Bennett, the café will host 12 rescue cats from Whitchurch Animal Welfare Society (WAWS), all available for adoption. A portion of every drink and pastry sold—along with a £5 entry fee—will go directly to WAWS for veterinary care and spay/neuter programs.
“Whitchurch has needed a cat café, but I wanted it to be more than just a novelty,” Bennett said. “Each cat here has a story, and we hope their presence will inspire adoptions while funding rescue work.” The café will also feature a “Wall of Hope,” displaying photos and stories of cats waiting for homes.
Community-Driven Design with Feline Comfort in Mind
The space has been designed with cat welfare as a priority: separate “quiet zones” for shy felines, climbing structures, and natural light. Veterinarian Dr. James Cooper, who advised on the café’s setup, praised the focus on animal well-being: “Too many pet cafes overlook cats’ needs, but Lisa has created an environment where they can thrive.”
Local businesses have rallied behind the initiative: Green Bean Roasters is supplying fair-trade coffee, and Bake & Bloom will bake cat-themed treats—none containing ingredients harmful to felines. “It’s amazing how the community has come together,” Bennett noted.
Launch Event to Spotlight Rescue Cats
The grand opening on June 15 will feature a “Meet the Cats” event, with WAWS volunteers on hand to discuss adoption processes. The first 50 visitors will receive a free tote bag printed with rescue cat artwork, and a raffle will offer prizes like cat-sitting services and pet store vouchers.
Councillor Mike Evans, who supports the café, said: “This initiative combines two important things—community gathering spaces and animal welfare. It’s exactly the kind of project that makes Whitchurch special.”
As the café prepares to welcome guests, Bennett hopes it will spark a broader conversation about rescue pets: “Every cat here was once homeless. We want to show that rescued animals make incredible companions—and that a cup of coffee can help change their lives.”
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