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Booking & Tickets Information about bookings, tickets, rescheduling, cancellations and session details.
Do I need to book in advance?

We recommend booking online in advance to secure your preferred date and time, especially on weekends, public holidays and during school holidays. Booking ahead is the best way to avoid disappointment.

Can I walk in without a booking?

Availability can change throughout the day. If you are nearby, walk-ins may be available—you are welcome to come and check with us, but walk-in entry is not guaranteed.

What session lengths do you offer?

We offer 30-minute, one-hour and selected longer experiences. Please see our Experiences & Prices page for the current options.

What is included in my ticket?

Every ticket includes entry to the cat lounge for the selected session. Some experiences also include a drink, cat treats or other extras. The inclusions are shown with each experience before you book.

Can I reschedule my booking?

Eligible bookings may be rescheduled once, subject to availability:

  • More than 24 hours before the session: one reschedule at no additional charge.
  • Less than 24 hours but more than 4 hours before the session: one reschedule may be permitted with a fee equal to 50% of the total booking value.
  • Within 4 hours of the session: rescheduling is not accepted.

For a booking made less than 24 hours before its session, a one-hour grace period applies only while the session is still more than four hours away. After that grace period, the 50% fee applies if the session remains more than four hours away.

Reply directly to your original booking or order confirmation email. The applicable notice period is measured when your email is received, including outside opening hours. Your original booking remains in place unless and until our team confirms the change by email. See the full Rescheduling & Refund Policy.

Can I cancel my booking?

All bookings are final and non-refundable. If you cannot attend, please review whether your booking meets the conditions for a one-time reschedule in our Rescheduling & Refund Policy.

Are bookings refundable?

No. All bookings are final and non-refundable. This does not affect any rights you may have under Australian Consumer Law if Cat Cafe Melbourne cancels a session or cannot provide the booked experience.

What happens if I arrive late?

You may enter for the time remaining in your booked session, subject to the normal entry requirements. A late arrival does not extend the finishing time and does not provide an entitlement to extra time, a partial refund, credit or rescheduling. We recommend arriving with enough time to be ready for your scheduled session.

Can I extend my session?

If space is available, please ask our team whether you can purchase additional time. An extension is not guaranteed and remains subject to the capacity of the following session.

Do you sell gift vouchers?

Yes. Digital Gift Vouchers are available online and can be emailed to the recipient with a personalised message. They can be used toward eligible purchases in accordance with the applicable voucher terms.

Do I need to print my booking confirmation?

No. Please keep the confirmation email and have it available on your phone if requested. We can usually locate the booking at reception using the booking name or order details.

Can I bring additional guests who were not included in my booking?

Additional guests are not guaranteed entry and must each have a valid admission. Please reply to your original confirmation email before your visit so we can check availability. Venue capacity still applies.

Does booking all currently available spots make my session private?

No. A regular public session does not become private simply because you booked all spots that were showing as available. Please use our Private Sessions option if you need exclusive use of the venue.

During Your Visit What to expect during your visit, cat cafe rules and interacting with our cats.
What happens during my visit?

Our team will welcome you, check you in and explain the house rules that keep our guests and cats safe and comfortable. You can then relax and spend time with our resident cats at your own pace for the duration of your booked session.

Can I pat the cats?

Absolutely. Gentle pats are encouraged when a cat is comfortable and chooses to interact. Every cat has a different personality, so please let the cat decide how it would like to engage.

Can I pick up the cats?

No. Guests must not pick up or carry our cats. Some cats may choose to sit beside you or on your lap; please always allow them to control the interaction.

Can I feed the cats?

Only cat treats supplied by Cat Cafe Melbourne may be offered, and they must be given according to our team’s instructions. Do not bring or feed external food or treats. Anyone found feeding unauthorised food or treats to our cats will be asked to leave immediately without a refund.

Why are some cats sleeping or hiding?

Cats naturally sleep for many hours each day and sometimes choose a quiet space away from visitors. This is normal and important for their wellbeing. Please leave sleeping or resting cats undisturbed.

Why aren’t all the cats in the lounge?

Our cats are free to move between the cafe’s different areas and have access to private rest spaces. Some may be exploring, playing, eating or simply enjoying a quiet break. We never require a cat to interact when it chooses not to.

Can I bring my own cat?

No. Personal pets and other animals cannot enter the cafe. This protects the safety, health and comfort of our resident cats.

Can I bring toys for the cats?

No. We provide carefully selected toys that are safe and suitable for our cats. Outside toys may create safety or hygiene risks and are not permitted.

What if a cat does not want attention?

Please respect the cat’s choice. If a cat walks away, hides or otherwise asks for space, allow it to do so. Giving our cats control over their interactions helps maintain a happy, low-stress environment.

Can I wake a sleeping cat?

No. Please never wake, chase or disturb a sleeping cat. If you would like to interact, choose a cat that is already awake and receptive.

Why do I need to sanitise my hands?

Hand sanitising reduces the spread of germs and helps protect our cats and visitors. All guests must sanitise their hands before entering the cat lounge and whenever requested by our team.

Do I need to remove my shoes or store my bag?

Yes. We ask guests to remove their shoes and place bags in the storage area before entering the cat lounge. Our team will guide you through this during check-in.

Children & Families Information for visiting families and the requirements that protect our guests and resident cats.
Is there a minimum age to visit?

Infants and toddlers are not permitted, and children under 8 are generally not permitted. For a child nearing 8 years of age, a parent or guardian may contact us before making a booking to request written approval.

Do you ever approve a visit for a child under 8?

We may consider a request for a child nearing 8 where the child can remain calm, follow our rules and interact appropriately with the cats without disruption. Approval is entirely at Cat Cafe Melbourne’s discretion and must be received in writing before making a booking. Booking first does not guarantee entry.

What is required if a child under 8 is approved?

A signed waiver is required before entry, and the child must remain under close adult supervision at all times. The supervising adult is responsible for ensuring the child follows the house rules and interacts gently with the cats.

What happens if a child becomes upset or disruptive?

Our cafe must remain calm for the cats and other guests. If a child becomes distressed, runs, shouts or repeatedly disregards the rules, we may ask the supervising adult to take the child outside or end the visit. A visit ended for safety, animal welfare or failure to follow the rules is not refundable.

Are prams and strollers permitted?

Infants and toddlers are not permitted, so prams and strollers are not ordinarily required. If an approved child or another guest has a specific accessibility need, please contact us before booking because space in the lounge is limited.

Can I bring a baby, infant or toddler?

No. Babies, infants and toddlers are not permitted inside the cat lounge.

Can I book a birthday celebration?

Yes. Guests who meet our age requirements are welcome to celebrate a birthday with us. For a larger group or an exclusive celebration, please review our Private Sessions or contact us before booking.

Can I bring a birthday cake or decorations?

No. Outside food and drinks, including birthday cakes, cannot be consumed inside the cafe. Only drinks purchased from Cat Cafe Melbourne may be consumed inside.

Balloons, confetti, glitter, streamers, party poppers and other decorations that could frighten or endanger the cats are also not permitted.

Can families and groups stay together?

Our cat lounge is an open, shared space without assigned seating. Your group may move around and sit together where space allows, but fixed or exclusive seating cannot be guaranteed during a public session.

What if someone in our group does not want to enter the cat lounge?

Only guests with a valid admission may enter the cat lounge. A friend or family member who is not participating may wait outside the lounge where appropriate, subject to the limited space available.

Accessibility What to know before visiting if you have accessibility requirements.
Is Cat Cafe Melbourne wheelchair accessible?

Our ground-floor lounge is accessible for most wheelchair users, including power wheelchairs. The upstairs lounge is accessible only by stairs. Many of our resident cats spend time downstairs, so wheelchair users can still enjoy time with the cats. Please contact us before booking if you would like to discuss a specific requirement.

Are the toilets wheelchair accessible?

No. Our guest toilet is upstairs and is accessible only by stairs. We do not currently have an accessible toilet on the ground floor.

Do you accept Companion Cards?

No. Cat Cafe Melbourne does not participate in the Companion Card program, and every person entering the cat lounge requires a valid admission.

I have limited mobility. Can I still visit?

Yes. Many guests with limited mobility enjoy the ground-floor lounge. Please contact us before booking if you would like help planning your visit or have specific requirements.

Can I use a walking frame or mobility aid?

Yes. Walking frames, canes and other mobility aids are welcome. Space on the ground floor is limited, so contacting us before booking will help us prepare for your arrival.

Are assistance animals permitted?

No. Because our resident cats roam freely throughout the premises, we cannot accommodate assistance animals or other visiting animals inside the venue. This protects the safety, welfare and comfort of our resident cats and visiting animals.

Is there accessible parking nearby?

Public parking options are available nearby, but availability changes throughout the day. We recommend checking current parking information and allowing additional time before your session.

Can I contact you before booking about accessibility?

Of course. Every guest’s needs are different. Please contact us before booking and we will help you assess whether the venue suits your requirements.

Our Cats Meet our resident cats and learn how their wellbeing, choices and routines come first.
Where did your cats come from?

Our cats came from a variety of backgrounds and have been adopted into our family. Each was carefully considered for its personality and suitability for a cat cafe environment.

Are your cats available for adoption?

No. Our resident cats are permanent members of the Cat Cafe Melbourne family and are not available for adoption. If you wish to adopt a cat, please contact a reputable local animal shelter or rescue organisation.

Can I buy one of your cats?

No. Our cats are cherished permanent residents and are not for sale.

How many cats live at the cafe?

More than 20 resident cats call Cat Cafe Melbourne home. Each has a unique personality, favourite resting place and daily routine, so every visit is different.

How do you look after your cats?

Their wellbeing is our highest priority. Our cats receive quality nutrition, regular veterinary care, enrichment, private resting spaces and daily attention from our experienced team. We continually monitor their comfort and health.

Do the cats have private rest areas?

Yes. Our cats always have access to private areas away from visitors whenever they wish to rest or enjoy quiet time. They are free to choose whether to spend time with guests.

Why don’t all the cats come up to me?

Every cat has a different personality. Some readily approach visitors, while others are more independent or prefer to observe from a distance. Letting the cats make the first move creates the best experience for them.

Why can’t guests carry the cats?

Allowing each cat to choose when and how it interacts builds trust, reduces stress and protects its long-term wellbeing. For that reason, guests must not pick up or carry the cats.

Photography & Filming Guidance for personal photos, videos, social media and professional content creation.
Can I take photos during my visit?

Yes. Personal photography is welcome provided it does not disturb our cats or other guests. Please keep equipment compact and follow any directions from our team.

Can I film videos?

Yes. You may record short videos for personal use and social media as long as filming does not disturb the cats or other guests.

Can I use flash photography?

No. Flash photography is not permitted because sudden bright light can startle our cats and disrupt the calm environment.

Can I bring professional camera equipment?

Small handheld cameras are welcome. Please contact us before booking if you plan to bring professional photography or videography equipment so we can assess the space, safety and session requirements.

Can I book a professional photoshoot?

Professional, promotional or commercial photoshoots require prior approval. Please contact us before booking so we can discuss your project and the most appropriate session.

Can I use the cafe for commercial content creation?

Commercial photography, videography and content creation require written approval before your visit. Additional conditions or a private-session booking may apply.

Can I photograph other guests?

Please protect the privacy of other visitors and do not photograph or film anyone without their permission.

Can I bring a tripod or lighting equipment?

Tripods, light stands and other large equipment are not permitted during ordinary public sessions unless we have approved them in advance. This protects clear walkways and everyone’s safety.

Can I post my photos on social media?

Of course. We love seeing your photos and videos. If you share your visit, tag @catcafemelbourne so we can see your favourite moments.

Can I livestream from the cafe?

Brief personal livestreaming may be permitted if it does not disturb our cats or other guests. Commercial streams, extended broadcasts and setups involving extra equipment require prior approval.

Food & Drinks Information about our drink service, outside food and the treats approved for our cats.
Do you serve meals?

No. Cat Cafe Melbourne is not a full-service cafe or restaurant. We provide a cat lounge experience with a selection of drinks and approved cat treats rather than a food menu.

What drinks are available?

We offer a selection of hot and cold beverages. Some experiences include a drink while others are entry only or include cat treats. Please see Experiences & Prices for current inclusions.

Can I purchase a drink if my ticket does not include one?

Yes. Drinks can be purchased during your visit even when your experience does not include one.

Are drinks served in takeaway cups?

Yes. All drinks are served in takeaway cups with lids. Please keep an eye on your drink because our curious cats may move or jump nearby. We cannot replace a drink that is accidentally spilled, even when a cat is involved.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?

No. Outside food and drinks cannot be consumed inside the cafe. If you need to carry something for a medical reason, please contact us before your visit and follow our team’s instructions.

Why is outside food not permitted?

Outside food can attract the cats, create mess and introduce ingredients that may be unsafe for them. The rule protects the cats and keeps the lounge clean and comfortable.

Can I feed the cats my own treats?

No. Only treats supplied by Cat Cafe Melbourne may be given to our cats. Bringing or secretly feeding outside food or treats is strictly prohibited. Anyone found doing so will be asked to leave immediately without a refund.

Do you sell cat treats?

Yes. Selected experiences include cat treats, and approved treats may also be purchased separately. Our team will explain how to offer them safely and fairly.

Do you cater for dietary requirements?

Our beverage range is limited because we do not operate a kitchen or restaurant. Please contact us before booking if you need to check whether a suitable drink option is available.

Where can I eat before or after my session?

There are many cafes and restaurants nearby where you can enjoy a meal before or after visiting Cat Cafe Melbourne. Food purchased elsewhere cannot be brought into the cat lounge.

Step 1: Please review the following important booking information before you book.

Refund & Rescheduling

All bookings are final and non-refundable. Rescheduling is only permitted when the requirements of our Rescheduling & Refund Policy are met, including the applicable notice periods and restrictions. Fees may apply. Where rescheduling is permitted, each booking may be rescheduled once only.

View full Rescheduling & Refund Policy

Children Under 8

Infants and toddlers are not permitted. Children under 8 are generally not permitted.
For children nearing 8 years of age, a parent or guardian may contact us before making a
booking to request approval.

Read Our FAQs

Have a question? Our FAQs answer the most common questions before your visit.

View our FAQs