Julie Ondang has built what many might consider a dream retirement with the grand opening of the Catloops Cat Café.
As the owner and operator of Catloops Cat Café, Ondang has created a space where roughly 15 cats roam freely at any given time, greeting visitors, playing and more often than not, curling up for a nap beside a new friend. For the cats, it’s more than just a cool space with amazing toys and climbable walls. It’s a stepping stone to socialization and, more importantly, a permanent home.
“All of the cats here are rescue kittens from feral colonies,” Ondang explained. “This gives them a chance to be seen, to be socialized and to find families.”
The café works closely with Sammy’s Forgotten Felines Cat Rescue, an organization Ondang has directed since 2019. In many ways, the café is a natural extension of that work. A solution to a long-standing challenge. Getting rescue cats to forever homes.
“Sammy’s needed a place for the cats to be seen,” she said.
The idea for the café began to form the same year the rescue was founded. But turning that vision into reality wasn’t simple. Plans were set in motion in 2019, only to be stalled by the pandemic. The project was put on hold for years before Ondang and her team revived it in late 2024. And now, after a handful of hiccups, here in early 2026, Catloops Cat Café finally opened its doors.
And of course, it very quickly became a community favourite.
Visitors book their time in 50-minute blocks, with up to 12 to 15 people enjoying the space at once. Upon arrival, guests are given a toy to interact with the cats, or they can simply relax and let the animals come to them. It’s really about being in their space.
The café prioritizes the well-being of its feline residents. If the cats become overwhelmed, they can retreat to a designated quiet area away from visitors. Though according to Ondang, the kittens have quickly warmed up to having visitors in their space.
While most of the cats are available for adoption, two have taken on permanent roles. Boon, a natural greeter, welcomes guests as they arrive, while Swirl helps teach new kittens how to interact and adjust to the environment.
Beyond adoptions, the café has become a lively hub for events. From Thompson Rivers University study nights to Dungeons & Dragons sessions, yoga classes, wine tastings, colouring nights and more, there’s always something happening. Ondang’s son, Dan, has played a key role in organizing these community gatherings.
Support from local veterinarians has also been instrumental in getting the café up and running.
“It’s been amazing,” Ondang said. “The community has really shown up for us.”
For Ondang, the work is deeply rewarding.
“Let’s face it, it’s a good job,” she said with a smile. “What a fabulous way to retire.” And while we sat and chatted with kittens curled up beside us and others playing at our feet, it is hard to argue with that sentiment.
Ondang’s mission goes beyond the café walls. She hopes the space also raises awareness about animal welfare and responsible pet ownership.
“Support your rescues, they all need help,” she said. “And spay and neuter your pets.”
At Catloops Cat Café, you can support your local rescues. All while sipping coffee and hanging out with more than a dozen furry friends. For further details and bookings, visit
catloops.ca.