Ukrainian Cat Cafe Remains Open Despite The War To Make Sure The Cats Are Looked After

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has put the eastern European country in an increasingly complicated crisis. With estimated fatalities of at least 9000, around 1 million displaced, and hundreds of buildings destroyed (as of this writing), the threat of a nuclear war and ramped up assaults are clouding the entire country with fear and uncertainty. Understandably, many homeowners and shop owners have chosen to abandon their properties to flee to safety. But the owner of Cat Café Lviv decided to stay put and keep the shop open to serve its customers and protect their resident cats despite the unceasing conflict.

Cat Café Lviv has been bringing joy and delectable dining experience to people for over 6 years. Its owner, Serhii Oliinyk, decided to stay and keep the restaurant open amid war to provide a safe place for diners, hoping to give them a moment of respite in the comfort of yummy treats and delicious drinks. This Ukrainian cat café is also home to 20 adorable kitties who keep diners company. So customers can pet these furry felines while they sip a tasty drink for a purrfect dining experience.

This Cat Cafe In Ukraine Stays Open Despite The Russian Invasion

One of the reasons why Cat Cafe Lviv chose to stay open despite the Russian invasion is to protect its resident cats. Fleeing the city would also mean leaving the cats behind and Oliinyk thinks that wasn’t an option for them. While other shop owners who refused to leave the city opted to close their doors for customers, Oliinyk continues to open its doors for those in need of heartening food and positive emotions courtesy of the cute felines.

“Our cats have been living in [the] cat cafe since the age of 4 months,” Oliinyk explained. “They are like family. We realized that we would never leave our country, that this was the only place where we could see ourselves in the future.”

Conveniently, two of the café’s three large rooms are located in the basement. These rooms can offer a safe shelter for customers and cats in case of a sudden air attack. Needless to say, Cat Café Lviv can make use of financial donations during these difficult and dangerous times. With fewer customers coming in, the restaurant could hardly cover business expenses including payroll, utilities, maintenance, and (of course) cat foods. The café has posted the details on their Facebook page on how you can support their cause. To help Ukraine stand firm against the invasion, 50% of the donations will proceed to the Ukrainian army.

Source: Facebook