Get A Gato

Get A Gato operates as a dual-space establishment in Philadelphia, combining a full-service Colombian-inspired cafe in the front with a ticketed cat adoption lounge in the back. Operating as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit partnered with House of the Cat and The Cat Collaborative, Get A Gato's mission centers on finding permanent homes for rescued strays while simultaneously freeing up space and resources at partner shelters. The organization functions as a foster home for rescue cats, providing them visibility and socialization opportunities that significantly increase their adoption chances. Sessions in the cat lounge run 50 minutes and are priced at $15, with a 50% discount available for Tuesday through Thursday sessions.

The cafe itself merits particular attention, as reviewers consistently praised the quality of the beverages and snacks available—lattes, chai, matcha, and kombucha all received specific praise for being genuinely delicious rather than an afterthought. The design intentionally separates the cafe from the cat lounge, allowing visitors to either enjoy refreshments while observing cats or spend dedicated time in the lounge. Each cat wears a color-coded collar indicating its personality and behavioral tendencies, and detailed name tags and introduction cards help visitors understand individual cats before interaction. The space is notably clean with a separate litter area, ensuring the environment remains fresh and welcoming.

Staff members across multiple reviews are described as caring, knowledgeable, and genuinely affectionate with the cats. The owner's personal investment in the cats' wellbeing is evident to visitors, and staff members actively help match people with suitable cats based on personality compatibility. Reviews highlight the organized systems in place—from the coding system for cat information to the separate decompression breaks scheduled into daily operations—reflecting thoughtful management. Multiple long-term visitors mentioned becoming regulars and eventually adopting, praising both the cafe experience and the adoption process.