When my granddaughter announced that her birthday party was going to be held at the “Cat Café,” I was less than excited. Nope, not a big cat lover. It’s not that I despise furry felines, it’s just that I’m allergic (it’s the dander). And, it’s only natural to have an aversion to creatures who make your eyes itch, face swell, and throat close- not to mention the hives.

But… there was no way I was going to miss her special day, so I set off with a purse filled with allergy meds and a heavy-duty face mask. I was assured the cats were in an enclosed space separate from the café, so there shouldn’t be any issues. Even so, I was a bit apprehensive.

The birthday girl was bubbling with excitement. Kids love turning a year older (which could be a lesson for all of us).  Of course, having a party with cats, friends, cupcakes, and gifts makes it even sweeter. She is a big animal lover; one of those people who is a natural with four-legged creatures. It’s not surprising this was her ideal party location.

What a pleasant surprise! The Cat and Craft Café (located in North San Diego County) was a very cool place for a party, even for the allergic. There is a “lounge” area for the cats filled with toys, climbing places, and hiding areas. There is also a cat door so the animals can enter and exit as they wish. A large glass window surrounds the lounge so that all visitors can observe the fun.

I enjoyed some yummy tea and happily watched a group of preschool girls in party dresses dance around with the kittens and cats. My granddaughter was mesmerized as she waved a feathered wand and the cats leaped in delight. This was definitely more enjoyable than a traditional party with the swinging pinata.

Another cool thing about the café is that all of the felines are up for adoption. The café serves as a foster site for the Rescue House which is an organization dedicated to assisting cats through rescue, foster, and adoption (www.rescuehouse.org).

All in all, it was one of the most low-key, creative parties that I have attended- and all for a good cause. The experience was also a great reminder not to jump to assumptions and expect the worse.  Had I leaned into those visions of allergy misery, I would have missed out on this purrrfect party.