Cat Cafe Mori Neko

Established as a Certified NPO (認定NPO法人もりねこ), Cat Cafe Mori Neko (もりねこカフェ) in Morioka, Iwate, operates with the mission "Cats and Humans, Together in Happiness" (ねこも ひとも しあわせに). Uniquely specializing in FIV-positive (cat AIDS) rescue cats, Mori Neko provides specialized sanctuary for cats with this manageable but challenging diagnosis—cats typically excluded from standard adoption programs. The organization runs concurrent shelter operations and hosts monthly spay/neuter clinics via mobile surgical unit "Niko Wagon" in partnership with Nijino Hashi Spay Clinic, addressing root causes of cat overpopulation. The cafe functions as both visitor space and active fundraising vehicle; all shop profits directly support medical care, food, and facility maintenance for vulnerable rescue cats.

Visitors consistently praised the space's exceptional cleanliness and cats' visible contentment and safety—"the space is clean, and it conveys that the rescue cats are living comfortably here." Multiple guests noted the emotional impact of interacting with formerly vulnerable cats: "I was so happy that a cat sat on my lap" and "I felt the precious weight on my legs—true happiness." Many visitors expressed deep emotional connection, saying they wish these cats would find warm homes forever. The cats, mostly calm and socialized through dedicated staff work, are predominantly healthy, though some show effects of past trauma (behavioral retraining in progress). Staff demonstrates profound knowledge and care; visitors noted staff's obvious dedication to each cat's wellbeing. One visitor received pre-visit education about FIV-positive cats, helping set proper expectations. The cafe provides complimentary hand-washing and lint rollers for visitor hygiene. One reviewer noted some cats have skin/coat condition effects from FIV, which staff could better explain proactively.

Free admission with complimentary beverages (water, coffee, tea, and one canned drink option). Optional cat treats available at 100 yen for interactive feeding. Cat omamori (charm) and merchandise available in shop. Shop-only visits welcome at no charge. Located at 2 Chome-6-6, Saien, Morioka, Iwate. The cafe is closing May 17, 2026—this represents a final window for supporters to visit and contribute. Visitors are encouraged to purchase merchandise and donate generously to support the organization's ongoing shelter and spay/neuter programs beyond the cafe closure. The facility is a certified Animal Donation organization accepting donations for ongoing FIV cat care.