- Make a Reservation. The cats at affoGATO are the talk of the town, so there is not always space in the cat lounge, especially on the weekends! Guarantee your space with a reservation. This also lets you conveniently pay and fill out the waiver ahead of time, so there’s no stress, only fun! No reservations are needed to hang out on the cafe side and enjoy a drink.
- Kids Ages 12 and Under Are Allowed on Sundays and Some Special Holiday Hours. Click “family friendly hangout” on the scheduling page to see the options. Minors aged 13+ are welcome in all cat lounge hangouts. Minors ages 15 and under must have an accompanying adult with a paid reservation in the lounge. Ages 16+ do not require parental supervision. All minors must have a parent or guardian’s signature on the digital waiver. Click here to see our tips for kids at the café!
- We Are Wheelchair Accessible. We’re not able to install a permanent ramp because of the narrow sidewalk, but ring the doorbell out front and we’ll bring the ramp right out! Once inside, the entire space is on one floor. We also have an accessible restroom with a grab bar. The furniture is all light and easy to move, and there is always a lounge attendant to help, so everyone can access the entire space!
- Show Up 10 Minutes Early. This will make sure you have ample time to park, check-in, and enjoy every minute of your cat time!
- Parking and Public Transport Are Available. St. Theodosius generously allows our guests to use the lot behind the café every day except Sundays and during some special neighborhood or church events (such as Taste of Tremont). Our customers may disregard the posted “tow-away” signs except Sundays and those events. Please be courteous by single-parking and do not litter. There is also ample street parking, the 81 bus stop, towpath access for bikes, and scooters for rent!
- Pick the Purrfect Time. Cats are crepuscular, and are most active at dawn and dusk. That means the middle of the day can be a little sleepy! If you’re looking for active playtime, we recommend coming during our first appointment or last appointment of the day. Also, weekends tend to be busier, so if you come on a weekday there are usually less people with whom to share the cats!
- Make a Good Impression. Be the “cat whisperer” of your group! Here are some helpful links: Cats at affoGATO, How to Politely Introduce Yourself, and Reading Cat Body Language. Remember that the shelter cats here will have a different level of trust than your friend at home, and they all have different likes/dislikes.
- Follow the Rules. Guests who don’t may be asked to leave without a refund. [COVID-19 Update: This includes our current COVID-19 rules, including wearing a mask.]
- Ask the Attendant. Our attendants know the cats really well, and are happy to give you info about how to have great interactions with each cat. Maybe it’s a special toy, or the perfect spot they like to be scratched, we have all of the best tips!
- Adopt a Cat. Most of the cats at affoGATO are available for adoption! Our attendant is happy to help you find your new best friend, and you can learn more about our process here. No pressure though, even if you don’t adopt you’re still helping to socialize them!
Want even more info? Read our FAQ here, or meet the cats!