Where was the World's First Cat Cafe?

Cat cafes have now become a global phenomenon, offering the typical fare of cafes, but with the added element of a cozier ambiance made possible by the presence of adorable kitties of all kinds. But where did this charming concept originate? The world’s first cat cafe opened its doors in Taipei, Taiwan, in 1998. Known then as Cat Flower Garden, this unique little business set the stage for a worldwide trend that has spread across 50+ countries over the past few decades.

How did it all start?

The Zhang family often gets credited for starting the world’s first cat cafe with Cat Flower Garden in 1998. However, the manager, Tracy Zhang, admits that they weren’t the first people in the world to have cats in a cafe, they were just the first to get media attention for it. After that, the story spread like wildfire.

Cafe Cats & Dogs (“Kitten Coffee Garden”) in Taipei, Taiwan

In the beginning, they only had five cats, and business was very slow. It wasn’t until a local television station did a piece on their business that things really started to take off. These days, the cafe, which is now called “Cafe Cats & Dogs” (also known as Kitten Coffee Garden), has had its fair share of animals and their kitty count has gone as high as 20. The count has now settled at 13 cats and 2 dogs, and all the animals are either strays they took in or gifted by friends. Unlike some of the spots that came after them, the cats at this cafe aren’t available for adoption and simply call it their permanent home.

So what’s the world’s first cat cafe like?

The cafe is quite low key, and has a comfy, homey vibe inside. The cats and dogs are often lounging, sleeping, eating, or playing with each other. If your timing is right, you can witness kitty feeding time! However, due to Taiwan’s animal protection laws, you aren’t allowed to feed the cats, and a member of the staff coordinates feeding time.

Feeding Time at Kitten Coffee Garden

The Kitten Garden Cafe is open Wednesday to Monday (closed on Tuesdays and public holidays) from noon to 10pm. You don’t need a ticket to enter the Cafe Cats and Dogs, but you must spend a minimum of NT$200 (about $6 USD) in order to stick around and the maximum time you’re allowed is two hours.

Unfortunately, the cafe doesn’t have WiFi and only accepts cash. The vibe is pretty old school, which makes sense for a business that holds the title of “world’s first cat cafe”. Also, children under 12 are not permitted in the cafe.

Where exactly is it located?

The cafe is located in Taipei’s Shilin district across from Zhishan Station on the MRT Tamsui line. You can check out their listing here for a detailed map, address, description, and social media links.

Inside, there is plenty of seating split across two rooms. Around a dozen small tables for the humans, and kitty cushions and beds for the animals. During the week it can get pretty busy, and on weekends its frequently full which is why the two hour time limit is in place for each party of guests.

The cats (and dogs) in residence

13 cats and 2 dogs call this cafe home, with the oldest cat being around 15 years old and the youngest born within the last two years. They’re all well behaved and don’t seem to mine the company of humans, even when things get a little busy.

“Where are my treats?”

Most of the kitties meander around the cafe, minding their own business. Some are more inquisitive and approach the patrons for a little attention, but just remember not to feed them! The owners are also pretty stern about other rules like not grabbing/picking up the cats or shining lights on them. These rules are displayed clearly on every table in the cafe.

Nap time at Cafe Cats & Dogs

After more than 25 years of business, many cats have joined the cafe and some have passed on. The walls of the bathroom are adorned with pictures and touching tributes to the cats that have passed away over the years. This cafe is a spot where you can truly feel the pure, and loving intentions that inspired the birth of the cat cafe movement across the world.

If you ever find yourself in Taipei, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to experience this unique cafe for yourself.