The non-profit organisation Cat Heaven Rescue Cat Café in Somerset West has launched a Paw Buddy Club, an innovative programme designed to give children a unique opportunity to learn about, interact with, and care for cats in a safe and nurturing environment.
The organisation, the first cat café on the African continent, offers a safe, fun, and hygienic environment for cats and people to enjoy each other’s company.
The Paw Buddy Club extends this mission by raising awareness about the large number of abandoned cats in shelters.
The latest initiative was inspired by Michael James Baumann, a two-year-old who adores cats but cannot have one of his own because of his family’s frequent travels. Michael’s love for cats and eagerness to learn about them helped the NPO recognise the need for a safe, structured environment where children canconnect with and learn about cats.
The club is for children who, like Michael, are committed to understanding and respecting cats while building special memories with them.
While the café’s age restriction of 10 years old still stands, this restriction does not apply to children who are members of the exclusive club.
Children who join the Paw Buddy Club will enjoy:
• Unlimited visits: Members can visit the café as often as they would like between Tuesday’s and Friday’s.
• Expert training: Learn how to safely and respectfully interact with cats under the guidance of Cat Heaven staff.
• A personalised certificate: Every Paw Buddy receives an official certificate recognizing their commitment.
• Wall of Honour: Members’ names will be proudly displayed on the café’s Wall of Honour.
• Starter pack: A welcome kit to commemorate their membership.
How it works:
To join the Paw Buddy Club, families must sign an indemnity form and pay the annual membership fee. This fee demonstrates the commitment of each child to learning about and respecting cats while supporting Cat Heaven’s ongoing rescue and care efforts.
