Frequently Asked Questions
What is KitTea?
KitTea is a cat cafe that turned into a cat sanctuary in 2020. After moving locations, our cafe portion is no longer open, but we still have all of our rescue permanent residents and adoptable cats! Our mission remains to provide high-quality care to our permanent resident rescue felines and feature cats from rescues in order to socialize and find them homes at each cat's own pace.
Are the cats active … or will they be sleeping?
In short: both. Our cats are generally super friendly and social, which is why they are here. However, most cats sleep up to 16 hours per day. You’re likely to encounter a mix of cats playing, relaxing, napping, sitting on shoulders, and full-on sleeping. Our cats are not trained nor sedated, they do as they please when they please, just as cats should.
While it's hard to predict when the cats will be awake, cats tend to be most active during the first couple of hours after we open (12pm - 2pm on weekdays, 10AM - 12PM on weekends) and around dusk. If you are interested in a more laid-back vibe, afternoon nap time is very relaxing and a good way to de-stress.
Do cats spread COVID-19?
There is no evidence that these animals can transmit the disease to humans and spread COVID-19. COVID-19 is mainly spread through droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks.
Based on the limited available information, the risk of animals spreading the COVID-19 virus to people is considered low. Animals don't appear to play a significant role in spreading the virus that causes COVID-19. There is no evidence that viruses can spread to people or other animals from a pet's skin, fur or hair.
This is latest information coming from the cdc.gov and mayoclinic.org
Shoes Off?
Yes, but just in our pristine Cat Lounge. Socks are required.
The kitties spend most of the day on the floor and cat and human health is one of the few things we're sticklers about (along with premium wet food).
Do I need to buy a ticket in advance?
We always recommend you buy a ticket in advance to guarantee your desired day/time in the cat lounge, as our space is limited to 14 guests purr session. If there is availability, walk-ins are accepted.
Can I enjoy food and drink inside of KitTea?
Outside food and drinks (non-alcoholic of course) are welcome inside our cat lounge. Our neighbors at Arizmendi, Cafe Valencia and UpForDayz are all great nearby options if you would like to support local businesses. We have a small meownu of snacks like popcorn, chips, and candy available for purchase in addition to the complimentary cold canned beverages we provide with each ticket. Please note we do not allow cake to be served inside the lounge, unless you are holding a private event. Thank mew for your understanding!
How many cats are at KitTea?
Typically 18 - 30
As a cat sanctuary to 14 resident rescue felines, we are their forever home. We feature around 4 - 16 adoptable cats and kittens coming from various shelters in the state of CA. The count varies as cats find their forever homes (yay!) and it can take a little while before a new rescue arrives or acclimates into the cat lounge.
How much?
We like to think of a visit in our Cat Lounge as spa-like; a massage without the massage (unless you get Tippi on your lap). The process is akin to buying a ticket for a concert, but the band is 20-ish cats and the singing is much better than you'd expect.
Weekday, Weekend, and Holiday Cat Lounge Visits (55 min.) = $28 per purrson
Mewvie Nights (90 min.) = $32 per purrson
Why is the Cat Lounge ticketed?
To put it in San Francisco terms, we go through a Prius worth of cat litter every 3-4 months (3,300 pounds). That in addition to rent, medical care, 24/7 cat care, time necessary to socialize our at-risk rescue / adoption cats, 1,200 cans of cat food per month - we just can't survive solely on cat merchandise sales.
How do I get to KitTea?
KitTea is conveniently located at 1266 Valencia Street in the vibrant Mission District. We're a short walk from BART and MUNI at 24th and Mission (3 minute walk) and there is street/metered parking within walking distance.
If coming by car, please allow yourself extra time to find neighborhood or metered parking.
Please note: If arriving via Uber or Lyft, be sure to input our updated address (1266 Valencia St, San Francisco) rather than our business name.
Can I host a private event at KitTea?
KitTea is a unique location for parties and family gatherings. The cat lounge is available at a fixed price per hour with the option to include add-ons. Visit our private events page to learn more!.
Can I change or cancel my reservation?
It's in our DNA to say yes, (along with an alarmingly high number of Neanderthal genes - thanks 23andMe). Sometimes life or illness happens, but please be sure to give us at least 48 of notice and we'll happily reschedule your 55 minute cat lounge experience. Even though all sales are final during these uncertain times, we'll always do our best to accommodate your needs. Please email us at support@kitteasf.com with any re-scheduling requests.
Where do you get your cats?
We are fortunate to have relationships with (the utterly ameowzing) SF Animal Care & Control and The Cat People along with various shelters in the central valley of CA . We typically choose cats based on need (e.g. difficult to adopt, or on the euthanasia list). You'll notice that we have several black and tuxedo cats in our cat lounge, as they are the least adopted type of cat in The Bay Area.
Are kids allowed in the Cat Lounge?
We only allow children 9 years and older to enjoy our cat lounge, with the exception of the entire hour being booked with at least one guardian (buying all available tickets for the hour), or a Purrivate Event booking (up to 14 guests of your choosing!). This is to ensure proper supervision while interacting with our lovely rescue cats and to ensure guest experience remains calm and relaxing. Our insurance policy does not cover damage to belongings or injury to self sustained inside the Cat Lounge, including for younger guests. At least one adult (18+) needs to be present for every three children under 12 years of age.
Can I bring my own cat?
We understand that the term "cat lounge" can seem deceiving. Unfortunately, the answer is no, we are not a "BYOCat" establishment. It’s a hornet’s nest of socialization and communicable disease concerns. We are also unable to accept surrendered cats directly. In the sad event that you find yourself in this situation, we highly recommend finding a friend or family member who is able to take on the important role as pet parent as our shelter and rescue systems are underfunded and overcrowded. The Humane Society of Silicon Valley also lists a number of resources and, in lieu will take cats directly with a surrender fee. Our partner, Hopalong Animal Rescue, is also a good resource.
Do you accept volunteers?
We do not at this time, due to our limited space during the current health climate.
How can I best support KitTea's cats?
Cats need love, care, and attention, so simply scheduling a visit to our Cat Lounge can be just as beneficial for the cats as it is for their human counterparts. We also have a fun gift shop, online gift shop and a GoFundMe donation page to help us stay afloat during these uncertain times. You can also support our partners, each dedicated to the cause:
The Cat People The Cat People are an all-volunteer organization whose mission is to compassionately manage feral cat colonies and find fur-ever homes through their sanctuary!
Bengal Rescue Bengal Rescue’s mission is to rescue Bengal cats and other hybrid cats
Hopalong Animal Rescue is our non-profit partner rescue for adoptable kitties and they are always grateful for any support with their foster program. Hopalong Animal Rescue is dedicated team of volunteers who have saved numerous rescue kittens and cats over the last 10+ years!
Buster's Fund supports cats (and dogs!) in California's rural Central Valley. A portion of our proceeds are donated to them and we encourage you to do the same!
Friends of SF Animal Care and Control is a non-profit organization created to supplement the limited city-funding of SFACC. Check out how you can help pets in need by clicking here.
Resources for cat owners
Pet friendly housing in the Bay Area: