Coffee shops are everywhere, but how many of them come with a room full of purring rescue cats ready to hop in your lap between sips? Fort Myers finally got in on the cat cafe trend when Cattyshack Cafe opened inside Gulf Coast Town Center, and it’s quickly become one of the more talked-about stops in the area for anyone who loves animals, caffeine, or both at once.
What makes Cattyshack stand out isn’t just the novelty of drinking a latte surrounded by felines, it’s the purpose behind it. Lee County has a serious stray and feral cat population, and this cafe partners with local rescue efforts to give adoptable cats a comfortable, social environment while they wait for their forever homes. It’s part coffee shop, part sanctuary, and the combination has made it a genuine local favorite rather than just a gimmick.
What There Is To Love
The main draw is obviously the cat room, a separate space from the cafe counter where you can sit, play, and relax alongside a rotating cast of resident and adoptable cats. Sessions run about 50 minutes for $15, and while walk-ins happen, booking ahead online is the smarter move since slots fill up fast, especially on weekends.
Every cat in the room is a rescue, and many are actively available for adoption through the cafe’s partnership with local shelter efforts. Staff members are known for knowing each cat’s personality inside and out, so if you’re curious whether a particular kitty is a lap cat or more of a watch-from-a-distance type, someone can usually point you in the right direction.
Beyond the cats, the coffee bar itself holds its own. Espresso drinks, lattes, cappuccinos, and frappes are made with locally sourced beans, and the menu also branches into fun extras like Italian sodas, dirty sodas, and specialty flavored drinks. There’s beer and wine available too, along with a charcuterie board for anyone who wants a light bite alongside their drink.
The cafe also runs a donation initiative called “Fund the Next Newbie,” which helps cover the cost of caring for incoming rescue cats before they’re ready to join the adoption room. It’s a small touch, but it reflects how much the business leans into its mission beyond just selling coffee.
Atmosphere & Décor
The space is bright, playful, and clearly designed with cat lovers in mind, from the feline-themed merchandise near the register to the whimsical branding throughout. The cat room itself is kept noticeably clean given how much traffic it sees, with climbing structures, cozy nooks, and plenty of space for cats to retreat if they’d rather nap than socialize.
It strikes a nice balance between cozy coffee shop and calm animal sanctuary. The main cafe area has a casual, welcoming vibe where you can order at the counter before heading back to the cat room, making it easy to split time between caffeinating and cat cuddling depending on your mood.
Other Considerations
Do I need a reservation? It’s not strictly required, but booking your cat room time slot online in advance is highly recommended since sessions are limited and popular times fill up quickly.
How much does it cost to visit the cat room? A 50-minute session runs $15 per person, which covers your time in the room with the cats.
Can I adopt a cat while I’m there? Yes, many of the cats in the cafe are available for adoption through the cafe’s rescue partnerships, and staff can walk you through the process if you fall in love with one.
Is it just for cat time, or can I hang out and work? The main cafe area outside the cat room is a comfortable spot to grab a drink and settle in, making it a popular choice for remote workers and students who want a calmer alternative to a typical coffee shop.
Cattyshack Cat Cafe
📍 9902 Gulf Coast Main St D-140, Fort Myers, FL 33913
Website: https://www.cattyshackcafe.com/
