LINCOLNTON, N.C. — Looking for a cup of coffee with a side of cuddles? Purrfect Pour Cat Café in Lincolnton offers just that — a place where customers can sip their favorite beverage while interacting with adoptable cats and helping homeless cats find their forever homes.
"It’s basically half coffee, half cats," co-owner Daniel Lindsay said. "Folks can come in and get beverages and snacks, and then take them into our cat room where up to 12 adoptable cats are waiting for attention."
Lindsay and his wife Leslie were inspired to open the café after visiting a similar business. Since opening in April, they have seen more than 160 cats adopted.
"It’s a great opportunity to give back to the community and help animals," he said. "There’s so many cat lovers out there. We thought this could be a unique way to mesh both worlds."
Visitors pay a small fee to spend time in the cat room, and that money goes directly to the cats. Visitors can reserve a spot ahead of time on the shop's website.
"It’s $12 an hour during the week and $15 on weekends," Lindsay said. "That fee helps keep the cats fed, the lights on, and the litter stocked."
The café isn’t just for potential adopters. Lindsay noted that people of all ages and backgrounds come to enjoy the relaxing atmosphere.
"We have older folks that come here to exercise their minds, and even kids with autism," he said. "The cats have this calming effect, and it’s amazing to see the difference it makes."
While kittens often draw visitors, Lindsay finds the most satisfaction in seeing older cats find homes.
"My favorite thing is when an older cat gets adopted, especially one that’s been surrendered after a lifetime with its owner," he said. "It really makes my day when we can help them."
The café works closely with Lincoln County Animal Shelter to ensure all cats are fully vetted before being placed for adoption. With plans to expand, the Lindsays are excited about the future.
"Our goal for this year is to adopt out 500 cats," Lindsay said. "We’re well on our way, and with the community’s support, we hope to open another location soon."
Whether you're a coffee lover, a cat lover, or both, Purrfect Pour Cat Café offers a spot to relax while giving back.
Contact Sarah French at Sarah@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.