Taipei\’s Cat Flower Garden has been frequently referred to as the world\’s first cat café, but it didn\’t experience a bustling start when it first opened nearly two decades ago.
What Is The Cat Flower Cafe
The title of the world\’s oldest operating cat café belongs to Kitten Garden, which is located in Taipei, Taiwan, China, and has been in business for an impressive 24 years. Known alternatively as \”Cat Flower Garden\” this unique establishment first opened its doors in 1998, situated near Zhishan Station in Taipei\’s Shilin District.
Currently, Kitten Garden boasts a diverse animal family, which includes 12 cats, along with two dogs and a bird. Visitors can enjoy the novelty of cats freely roaming, even hopping onto tables and interacting with patrons. Additionally, treats for the feline residents are available for purchase at the café. The menu offers a wide variety of food and the café\’s shelves are stocked with an assortment of cat-themed books. Kitten Garden\’s success has paved the way for the emergence of similar cat cafes not only in Taipei but also around the world.
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Inside The Kitten Garden
Inside, these feline residents have the liberty to roam as they please, which includes jumping onto tables and mingling with the guests. Snacks tailored for these delightful creatures are available for purchase, making it an ideal spot for those who relish the company of furry companions while sipping a beverage. When left undisturbed, the cats can often be found indulging in lengthy catnaps, sprawled out on chairs or nestled in cozy corners. They tend to wake up when food is on offer, but by and large, they appear to thoroughly relish their peaceful moments of slumber.
Cat Flower Garden\’s menu presents a delightful selection of beverages, including fruit teas, coffee, and the occasional sweet treat such as cakes and cookies, some of which are freshly baked in charming cat-shaped designs. The cafe\’s interior is adorned predominantly in shades of pink, radiating an aura of sheer adorableness. As an added bonus, their shelves are thoughtfully stocked with an assortment of books dedicated to our feline friends.
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According to the manager, cafes with cats had been in existence prior to Cat Flower Garden\’s establishment. However, this cafe was the initial pioneer of combining cats and cafes and they were the first to gain extensive media attention on a global scale. That\’s how they earned the title of the \”first cat cafe\”.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our exploration of the iconic Cat Flower Garden, a pioneering establishment that holds the title of the first cat cafe still in existence, we hope you\’ve enjoyed this journey through the heartwarming world of feline companionship and cozy cafe culture. The history, charm, and dedication of this unique cafe have left an indelible mark on the global cat cafe phenomenon.
We\’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences related to cat cafes or any questions you might have about Cat Flower Garden. Your comments and insights are an essential part of the conversation, and we encourage you to share your thoughts with us. Feel free to leave a comment below, and let\’s keep the conversation going!

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