FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is a cat art gallery?
A cat art gallery is a quiet, curated gallery space where you can enjoy original local artwork in the company of adoptable rescue cats. Like a cat café, visitors pay to spend 50 minutes with the cats, and hopefully that results in some adoptions. The cats live here as part of a calm, enriched environment, and visitors get to experience art in a uniquely soothing way. It is not a playground, and not a zoo.
Is this a cat café?
Nope. There is no food or drink service in the gallery space. This helps keep the environment clean, calm, and comfortable for both cats and humans.
Can I bring my cat?
As amazing as your cat undoubtedly is … no.
Our cats live here full-time and introducing outside animals would be stressful and unsafe. We also have a limited capacity to ensure the cats’ well-being.
Where do the cats come from?
We have partnered with local rescue K9 Advocacy, who, as the name implies, look after lots of dogs, and also have around 200 cats in their care at any given time. The cats are looking for their forever homes. Adoptions go through K9. Some are very socialized, some are working on that; all are very much in charge of the space.
Can I surrender my cat to you?
We do not take cats directly from the public. If you need to surrender a cat, we recommend contacting a local rescue organization who can assess and place them appropriately.
How many cats are in the gallery?
We maintain a small, carefully managed number of cats to ensure everyone’s comfort. This is not a “wall-to-wall cats” situation – it’s intentional, peaceful, and cat-approved. Having said that, we want to provide space for as many cats as possible, allowing K9 to take in even more cats. As we are just starting out, the number may be smaller at first (4-8) and then grown to up to 20.
Won’t it smell?
Not really. Cats are naturally clean, and our staff are extremely on top of cleaning and litter maintenance. If it smells like anything, it’s usually “calm” and “contentment.”
Isn’t this stressful for the cats?
The gallery is designed around cat autonomy. Cats are never forced to interact, can leave at any time, and have access to private, off-limits areas where humans are not allowed.
Rules are in place for visitors (no picking up, chasing, waking sleeping cats, or rough handling), and staff monitor the cats throughout the day.
Are the cats healthy?
Yes. All cats have been vet-checked and are monitored daily. We take health, hygiene, and stress levels very seriously.
Can I pet the cats?
If a cat approaches you – yes.
If a cat ignores you – that is a firm no.
Consent is very on-brand here.
Why would I want to visit?
- You love art
- You love cats
- You need a calm, quiet break from the world
- You can’t have pets where you live
- You enjoy peaceful experiences that don’t involve small talk
Also, spending time with animals is proven to reduce stress. We’re not saying it’s therapy… but we’re also not not saying that.
Do I need a reservation?
Reservations are strongly recommended, as we limit the number of visitors at one time to keep the environment calm. Walk-ins may be accommodated if space allows.
• Appointments begin on the hour.
• Please be on time. No extra time is provided due to lateness.
Is there an admission fee?
Yes. The fee helps cover:
- Daily care of the cats
- Staff supervision
- Cleaning and maintenance
- Housing costs
Can I bring children?
Many cat cafés (it’s the only thing we can compare to as there aren’t other cat art galleries) don’t allow children at all. We do at this time, but we are going to see how it goes. Children are welcome only if they are able to follow gallery and cat rules.
- Very young children may find the space challenging
- Children must remain calm, quiet, and supervised at all times
This is a gallery, not a play space – and the cats will absolutely enforce that vibe themselves.
What if I’m allergic to cats?
If you have cat allergies, we recommend proceeding with caution. While the space is kept very clean, cats do live here. If your allergies are severe, this may not be the experience for you.
Is the gallery wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, not at this time. We are working on getting a grant to change that as accessibility is important to us.
Can I donate?
Yes, and thank you – that’s very kind.
We accept monetary donations, which support cat care and our rescue partners. For item donations, current needs will be listed on our website along with a link to our Amazon wish list.
Do you host private events?
We do offer select private bookings that align with the calm nature of the gallery. Think small groups, mindful events, and quiet celebrations – not loud parties. Please contact us for details.
What should I wear?
Wear whatever makes you comfortable. Long pants are recommended. Shoes must be removed so socks are necessary.
Any final rules I should know?
- Be gentle
- Be quiet
- Let the cats lead
If you can handle that, you’ll fit right in.
A Note About Petting Cats
Unlike dogs, petting is not a natural or constant need for cats. While some cats enjoy touch, many become overstimulated if petting goes on too long. When this happens, a cat may bite or scratch – not out of anger, but because their nervous system needs a break.
Once a cat reaches this overstimulated state, it can take several minutes (or longer) for them to settle again. Respecting their limits keeps everyone safe and comfortable.
Let the Cat Take the Lead
- Wait for the cat to approach you
- Offer a still hand and allow the cat to choose contact
- Keep petting brief and gentle
- Stop immediately if the cat moves away
Watch the Body Language
Cats communicate clearly – if you know what to look for:
Happy & Comfortable:
- Slow blinking
- Leaning in or rubbing against you
- Relaxed body and tail
Time to Stop:
- Tail flicking or swishing
- Ears turning sideways or back
- Tense body
- Sudden turning of the head toward your hand
When in doubt, stop petting. A cat that feels respected is far more likely to return for more affection later – on their terms.
While our cats are well cared for and their nails are regularly trimmed, cats are animals and unpredictable behavior can occur. By entering the gallery, you acknowledge that scratches or bites may happen, and Lizzy B’s/Gallery 39 is not responsible for injuries resulting from interactions with the cats.
You must sign the WAIVER and FAQs document and bring it with you when you come, or e-mail it to us in advance. If you forget, we will have copies here.