Our Story

  • Meet Kat Killoran, Founder and CEO of Purrrlandia Cat Lounge & Cafe. Kat began volunteering at her local animal shelter as a way to give back and find relief from the stresses of her corporate life. This experience not only served as therapy for her but also revealed an opportunity to better care for shelter cats and highlighted the healing power of feline companionship.

    At the shelter, Kat witnessed how fearful cats were often misunderstood and overlooked, leading to stress-induced health and behavior issues. Confined in small cages, these cats were unable to exercise their natural behaviors or show their true personalities, making it difficult for potential adopters to connect with them. Many visitors felt sad in the environment, and unable to make informed choices due to limited interaction with the cats.

    Inspired by the cat cafes she visited in Japan, Kat envisioned a similar sanctuary in the U.S. where refreshment, relaxation, socialization, and rescue could harmoniously coexist.

    Purrrlandia emerged from these experiences, providing a stress-free haven for rescue cats. Our focus is to provide an enriching environment for adoptable rescue cats while promoting education for responsible guardianship. We address the overcrowding and euthanasia challenges that shelters face by offering alternative sheltering, socialization, and adoption opportunities. At Purrrlandia, we also offer “purr-therapy” for those who can’t have cats or just love being surrounded by them.

  • At Purrrlandia, our mission is to transform the lives of rescue cats while fostering a culture of responsible guardianship and compassionate cat care. We provide a sanctuary where every cat is cherished and every guest is welcome. Through our unwavering commitment to advocating for homeless cats and promoting responsible guardianship, we empower our community to become stewards of feline welfare. We strive to pave the way for a world where every cat finds a loving forever home and receives the care and attention they deserve.

  • At Purrrlandia, we are more than a cat cafe; we are a promise of home for rescue cats and a community for cat lovers. Whether you are looking to adopt a new furry friend or simply want to unwind with a cup of coffee in the company of our cats, Purrrlandia offers a sanctuary for relaxation and connection. Our goal is to create a space where every guest feels valued, and every cat has a chance to find a loving home.

  • Kat Killoran, Founder and CEO

    With over 20 years of experience in human resources operations and non-profit engagement, Kat brings a strong organizational management background and dedication to animal welfare. This commitment has been fostered through her active volunteer work at local animal shelters. Kat’s goal is to establish Purrrlandia as the premier destination for adoptable rescue cats and the cat-loving community.

    Bob Killoran, Chief Brand Officer

    With over a decade of experience in kennel management and a wealth of branding credentials as a graphic designer and illustrator, Bob possesses exceptional skills for crafting a captivating and unified brand presence. Through his efforts, Bob ensures that the mission of Purrrlandia resonates far and wide, captivating the hearts and minds of all who share in the experience.

    Nya and Kumo Killoran, Chief Feline Officers

    An adorable dynamic duo with a combined 16 months of rigorous kitty expertise. Nya, the seasoned pro at 1 year old, and Kumo, the enthusiastic rookie at 4 months old, are our in-house consultants for all things feline. They provide expert feedback on food products, litter, toys, and grooming essentials, and have been instrumental in inspiring maximum enrichment for all our furry friends at Purrrlandia.

    When not busy with their professional duties, Nya and Kumo offer invaluable services like post-meeting love sessions, mid-day massages, and top-tier nighttime snuggles. With Nya’s wisdom and Kumo’s playful spirit, they guarantee a purr-fect balance of work and play.

A Brief History of Cat Cafes


The Beginning of a Feline Phenomenon

1998

The world’s first cat cafe, “Cat Flower Garden,” opened its doors in Taipei, Taiwan. This innovative venture aimed to offer young urbanites a serene space to unwind after hectic days. It quickly became a beloved tourist destination, setting the stage for a global phenomenon.

Blossoming in Japan

2004

The cat cafe concept truly blossomed when it arrived in Japan. The first Japanese cat cafe, "Neko no Jikan," opened in Osaka, catering to urban residents whose apartments often forbade pet ownership. These cafes provided a much-needed remedy for loneliness and stress, becoming popular havens for relaxation and feline companionship.

Crossing the Pacific

2014

New York welcomed America’s first cat cafe, sponsored by Purina ONE and featuring adoptable cats from North Shore Animal League. This cafe marked the beginning of a new era in the United States, blending the charm of feline companionship with a focus on adoption.

A Movement for Rescue and Adoption

2024

North America now boasts approximately 150 cat cafes, each blending the companionship model popularized in Asia with a strong commitment to rescue and adoption efforts. Purrrlandia Cat Lounge & Cafe, is proud to be part of this movement. We offer a sanctuary for rescue cats and a peaceful retreat for cat lovers, all while supporting our mission to save lives and educate our community.

Benefits of Cat Cafes

Benefits for Cats

Enhanced Well-being: Free-roam environment reduces stress and encourages natural behaviors, leading to healthier, happier cats.

Improved Socialization: Regular interaction with guests enhances social skills and adaptability.

Lifesaving Sanctuary: Relieves pressure on overcrowded shelters and reduces euthanasia risk by serving as an overflow sanctuary.

Personality Showcase: Cats can fully express their personalities in a comfortable setting, improving their chances of finding a forever home.

Meaningful Interactions: Potential adopters can engage comfortably with cats, leading to more informed and successful adoption matches.

Benefits for Visitors

Comfortable Engagement: Enjoy a cozy and friendly setting that contrasts with traditional shelter environments.

Informed Decisions: Spend quality time with cats to better understand their personalities and your compatibility before making an adoption decision.

Adoption Made Easy: Enjoy a seamless on-site and same day adoption process.

Cat Companionship: Whether you're unable to have a cat at home or just need some feline love, experience the joy of cat companionship without commitment.

Community and Connection: Join a community of fellow cat lovers and support a mission that saves lives and promotes feline welfare.