Cat Therapy — Local services in Santa Barbara

A Purr-fect Experience at Kat Therapy in Santa Barbara

I recently had the opportunity to visit Kat Therapy in Santa Barbara, and I can't help but express my deep gratitude for this wonderful sanctuary. For those seeking a peaceful retreat filled with feline friends, this is the place to be. Kat Therapy isn't just a cat house; it's a haven for both humans and cats alike.

From the moment I walked in, I was enveloped in a serene atmosphere where cats roam freely, play, and nap as they please. The joy of interacting with these lovely creatures is immeasurable. It's a unique experience where you can sit and cuddle with a cat, play with a group of them, or simply observe their quirky behaviors—all while they enjoy a safe and loving environment.

What's truly admirable about Kat Therapy is its mission. The cats here are adoptable, and the whole point of this establishment is to provide cat therapy while also finding forever homes for these adorable animals. The small fee for entry is a small price to pay for the happiness and relaxation you receive in return. Moreover, this fee goes directly towards the care of the cats, including their food and maintenance, ensuring that they can continue rescuing cats from shelters.

The staff at Kat Therapy deserve a special mention for their dedication and the success they've achieved in the adoptions. Their passion for the welfare of these cats is evident in the way they maintain the space and care for the animals. It's clear that they are not just doing a job; they are fulfilling a calling to make a difference in the lives of both pets and people.

During my visit, I was touched by the tranquility and therapeutic atmosphere that only the presence of cats can provide. It's a heartwarming experience to see cats who may have once been without a home now receiving love and attention, with the potential to join a loving family.

In conclusion, Kat Therapy in Santa Barbara is more than just a cat cafe—it's a community service and a therapeutic getaway rolled into one. Whether you're a cat lover, looking for some stress relief, or considering adding a feline to your family, this place is a must-visit. You'll leave with a full heart, knowing that your patronage helps keep this beautiful cycle of rescue and adoption going. I wholeheartedly recommend Kat Therapy to anyone looking for a dose of joy and the chance to make a positive impact on the lives of these...

My daughter was so happy to visit Cat Therapy! There were 10-11 cats that we could find (they were sleeping in nooks or up high). They were mostly happy to let us rub tummies and heads but essentially wanted to be left alone. They became much more curious when we took out what must have been a popular toy because many came to us and engaged. We have a rescue who is skittish so we knew how to interact but having them engage made it more enjoyable.

The place is open and airy with benches and chairs to sit on. Comfortable and clean - no cat hair or litter tracking. We don't know the area but I would have been happy to get us tea or coffee and sit and just be with the cats. My daughter was happy as a clam just to sit and be still and definitely wants to return.

Three things that I'd note: There is a smell. Not terrible but noticeable when you arrive (I just didn't expect it - which was naive). One of the cats had a cold, was sneezing repeatedly and were worried about that. A family came by and was at the window outside with little kids and they were tapping at the window and the parents or grandparents lifted the children to stand on the window ledges. They were loud and annoying to us - I can only imagine the cats. It was a nuisance and intrusive. Perhaps a sign and/or the attendant might have told them to not tap the window as it's stressful for the cats? That may be normal practice but the attendant said she was subbing and didn't have a lot of knowledge or info to share.

All in all - we recommend and will revisit. We hope many more cats and rescued and adopted through Cat Therapy.

• post response from CT - thank you for letting us know. We are so glad they are...

The idea behind this place is cool. It is NOT one of those coffee cafes where you can grab a latte and sit in a separate room and hang out with cats. That said, my kids loved it and wanted to stay longer; the person with the wallet (me) denied that request.

Essentially you pay $12 per person to get in for 15 minutes. The staff will make sure you’re out at 15 minutes.

The space is a good sized room, clean, with a lot of cool cat furniture and some 7 or so cats. It is a place used to socialize cats before they are adopted so several of the cats wanted absolutely nothing to do with people, or kids, and two of them took swipes. Others were appreciative of back scratches and one younger one was interested in playing. The cats appear to be well cared for.

The people furniture is wooden benches so keep this in mind if you have physical disabilities or limitations. There is no cafe to speak of, at least when we were there the only items for sale were some touristy trinket things sold to support the place.

Overall cool idea that is way expensive for the experience, especially if you have a couple or more kids. I guess think of it more like...