09-03-2025
Peoria cat cafe celebrates one year
PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) — A local cat cafe is celebrating one year in business all weekend long.
Since launching last year, River Kitty Cafe has found 'furr'ever homes for nearly 250 cats, blowing past owner Holly Walker's goal of helping 100 cats in one year.
'I think number 100 happened in September, just six months after opening. And so to be at almost 250 is is insane. A roller coaster, honestly, but it has been incredibly overwhelming. The response from the community adopting out our 249th cat today and one that one day shy of a year. And it's just been amazing experience, honestly,' said Walker.
The anniversary celebration features half-priced reservations, raffles and giveaways. Cat lovers enjoyed coffee and cookies while petting and playing with friendly cats and kittens.
'It's better than therapy, that it's very relaxing, A nice way to decompress after a long day. A lot of people come in looking for a cat to adopt, and so they like to see the cats in relaxed environment get to know their personalities and things like that,' said Walker.
With spring around the corner, so is kitten season. Walker said they partnered with Peoria County Animal Protection Services to raise funds for spay and neuter programs. They raised $3,000 for the shelter through their 'Neuter Your Ex' fundraiser for Valentine's Day.
'It's always dire. This is the time of year where kittens litters of kittens are being born. Seems like back to back,' said Walker.
With one year down, Walker said she is just getting started. She hopes to expand or add a second location.
The festivities continue from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.
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