After nearly one year in business, the Okanagan’s first cat cafe is thriving, despite initial doubts from some. The concept of a cat cafe, where customers can enjoy a cup of coffee while interacting with adoptable cats, may have seemed unconventional to some, but it has proven to be a successful venture for the owners of the Purrfect Cup Cat Cafe in Kelowna.
Owner, Sarah Vandeberg, recalls the skepticism she faced when she first shared her idea of opening a cat cafe. “People thought I was crazy,” she says. “They didn’t understand the concept and didn’t think it would work.” However, Vandeberg was determined to make her dream a reality and opened the cafe in November 2020.
Since then, the cafe has become a popular spot for cat lovers and coffee enthusiasts alike. The cafe has partnered with the local animal shelter, AlleyCATS Alliance, to provide a space for adoptable cats to socialize and potentially find their forever homes. “We’ve had over 30 cats adopted since we opened,” Vandeberg proudly shares.
The cafe also offers a unique experience for customers, who can enjoy their coffee and treats in the company of the friendly felines. “It’s a relaxing and therapeutic environment,” says Vandeberg. “People come in stressed and leave feeling happy and calm.”
The success of the Purrfect Cup Cat Cafe has inspired other entrepreneurs in the Okanagan to open similar businesses. “We’ve had people come in and say they’re opening a cat cafe in their town,” Vandeberg says. “It’s exciting to see the concept catching on.”
As the cafe approaches its one-year anniversary, Vandeberg is grateful for the support from the community and the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of both cats and humans. “It’s been an amazing journey so far,” she says. “I’m excited to see what the future holds for the Purrfect Cup Cat Cafe.”
