Cat companions stimulate more lively conversations, boost morale and provide soothing company for cafe guests and staff.
Benefits
Not all cats adapt well to bustling, noisy environments and public interaction which could cause them distress without proper acclimating.
Concerns
Some health codes prohibit live animals around food prep areas or supplies, putting shop licenses at risk with resident cats present.
Hygiene
Medical bills, food, litter boxes and insurance raise costs for coffee shop owners even if a cat does increase revenue.
Expenses
Increased foot traffic and community connections enable more cats rescued by cafes to find forever homes with patrons.
Adoptions
Some shops install live pet-cam streams so patrons virtually visit with shelter cats without directly housing them onsite.
Alternatives
Barista supervision ensures cats don't get underfoot, overfed people food or harassed by undiscerning toddlers.
Supervision