8 Whimsical Ways to Celebrate Dr. Seuss Today

by Amber GuetebierMarch 2, 2020

You may think of him as a make-believe man in a striped hat, but the genius behind Dr. Seuss—Theodor Seuss Geisel—was very real, indeed. Born on Mar. 2, 1905, every year we celebrate this glorious, fabulous birthday by getting kids to Read Across America. We love Dr. Seuss, and we know you do too, so read on to for eight ways to have lots of good fun that is funny, today or any day.

photo: Amber Guetebier

1. Party like Fox in Socks.

Got a book-loving birthday boy or girl in your house? With some creativity and a few of your favorite characters, you can have a Seuss-tastic party in your own home.

2. Hear Like Horton.

Channel your inner Horton and outfit the kids with elephant ears they can wear inside, outside or even upside down.

photo of Lorax lunch plate by The Fantastic Five

3. Feast on Roast Beast.

Create a meal fit for all of Whoville with one of these Seuss-inspired recipes you can actually make, including green eggs and ham! And if eye candy is more your jam, here’s a dessert table that would make Thing 1 and Thing 2 seem calm.

4. Read, read, read.

Read in a car! Read in a train! Read in a box! Read with a fox! Whether it’s The Lorax, The Sneetches or another kid’s classic, make the man behind The Cat in the Hat proud by reading with your kids.

5. And write!

Not only was Dr. Seuss a proponent of reading, he remains an inspiration to aspiring young writers, showing kids that self-expression and silliness can be the highest form of literary art. Do Seuss proud with 3 clever (and easy) ideas for writing a story with kids.

catinthehats_rachelkaylynn_drseuss_national_redtricycle

photo: Rachel Kay Lynn

6. Do Cat-in-the-Hat projects.

Want to invite the Cat in the Hat into your house, even if your mother is not home? Try crafting one of our favorite easy projects inspired by this beloved Seussian feline.

7. Practice the rhythm method.

Try out a technique that will help kids explore the art of rhyme or freestyle poetry.

8. What Would Seuss Do?

If you should find yourself in Southern California (specifically the La Jolla area, where Dr. Seuss lived and wrote for many years) check out some of the ways to get in touch with the local legend. Or head to Orland, Fl where Universal Studios features Seuss Landing for all of your whimsical playtime needs!

—Amber Guetebier

10 of the Most Ridiculously Weird Pet Products We Kind of Secretly Want

by Shahrzad WarkentinJune 28, 2019

If your family includes a fur baby or two, chances are you’ve spent a good amount time and money gearing them up with their own toys, treats and accessories. Much like with your kids, pet owners do love to go all out to please their pets, but some items are a little more outside-the-box than others, like these weird pet products.

These are some of the most ridiculous pet products you can find:

Shed Defender

Amazon

If you love your pooch, but not all that fur that gets left behind on your furniture, then this dog leotard could be the answer. At the very least it will keep you in laughter, that is if you can convince your dog to wear it.

Available on Amazon, $39.99.

Dog Life Jacket with Mermaid Tail

Etsy

Keep your dog safe in the pool and make his mer-dog dreams come true with this mermaid dog life jacket.

Available on Etsy, $32.

Adjustable Pet Sling

Amazon

If you already wear your baby, why not wear your pets?

Available on Amazon, $22.99.

Bowser Beer

Amazon

At the end of a long day of barking and scratching what more could a dog ask for than an ice cold bottle of non-alcoholic dog beer. It comes in three delicious flavors: Beefy Brown Ale, Cock-a-Doodle Brew and Porky Pug Porter.

Available on Amazon, $26.99.

Meowsling Cat Wine

Amazon

You wouldn't want to leave your kitty out of the party. Pour your feline friend a glass of this catnip-infused, non-alcoholic "cat wine."

Available on Amazon, $11.98.

Pawdicure Polish Pen

Amazon

Every pet wants to look their best so help them put their best paw forward with a colorful pawdicure.

Available on Amazon, $7.99.

Cat Laptop

Amazon

Tired of your cat taking over your laptop? Give her one of her own.

Available on Amazon, $26.25.

Bubbletastic Bacon Bubble Machine

Amazon

Bacon-flavored bubbles, need we say more? The entire family can get behind this one.

Available on Amazon, $24.95.

Mattel's Puppy Tweets

Amazon

Is your dog a social media maven? Clip this device onto her collar and every time she barks those Twitter followers are in for a tweet. Whenever your dog moves or barks with this wifi enabled device on you'll get notified via Twitter with one of 500 preloaded phrases.

Available on Amazon, $16.95.

Snuggie for Dogs

Amazon

Your dog deserves a cozy night on the couch too. Wrap him up in this blanket with sleeves and curl up for some Netflix.

Available on Amazon, $8.15.

—Shahrzad Warkentin

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Trader Joe’s Newest Treats Are for the Furry Friends in Your Life

by Erica LoopFebruary 19, 2019

Pet parents, rejoice: Trader Joe’s cat treats are almost here and they’re just purr-fect for your furry little BFF.

TJ’s has always had great foodie finds for the whole fam—and now our fave grocer wants to treat your feline family members to something tasty, too.

Photo: Mikhail Wasilyev via Unsplash

It’s no secret Trader Joe’s kind of has a thing for dogs: they even released an advent calendar just for dogs this past holiday season. But according to TJ’s Marketing Director Tara Miller, “We love cats and dogs, and we are introducing two new cat treats: one that’s chicken and one that’s tuna.” Speaking on the Inside Trader Joe’s podcast, Miller added: “Every cat will be happy this year. Not just dogs.”

When can you expect these new chicken and tuna cat treats to hit store shelves? Even though Miller dished on the soon-to-be introduction of these new products, she didn’t provide an exact date. Like the other items included in the “new products” section of the podcast, we only know that the treats will launch sometime in 2019.

Along with the cat treats, Miller also announced a few other new (for human) products coming 2019, including gluten-free pizza dough, more organic cookies, new salad kits, Neopolitan Joe-Joe’s ice cream, outside-in gnochhi (with the sauce inside), Caprese ravioli and a chips and guac snack pack!

Um, is anyone else suddenly starving?

—Erica Loop

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Just A-Swinging: 6 Creative Ways to Use Hammocks Around the House

by Abigail MatsumotoJuly 7, 2016

Think hammocks are nothing but net? From organizational hacks to kiddie hangouts, we’ve gathered up 6 ideas that give the good ol’ hammock a super cool upgrade. Scroll through our picks below for a few easy ways to make your home a sweet, swinging spot.

photo: Little Bit Funky

Under-the-Table Hammock
You can take the classic table fort to a whole new level with some old bedsheets or baby wrap. It’s easy to pull off and a great way to keep a kiddo entertained under the kitchen table while you’re prepping a meal. Get a helpful hammock guide over at Fun with Kids.

photo: Made It Mommy

Stuffed Animal Hammock
Who says hammocks are just for humans? We like how this idea from Made It Mommy gets toys in on the hammock fun–and helps corral the kids’ stuffed animal collection, too. Best of all, it’s a no-sew idea! Get all the details here.

photo: Thom Patterson via anna-white.com

Loft Bed Hammock
Who wants a boring bottom bunk when you can have a built-in hang out spot? Simply take advantage of a loft bed frame and secure your own swing. Just beware: Once there’s a hammock option, you may have a hard time getting the kids to sleep in their actual bed. Get inspired here.

photo: Settle Down Slinki

Cat Hammock
How cute is this kitty hammock from Settle Down Slinki? We’re willing to bet that the kids will get a kick out of this relaxation spot–but not as much as your cat will. It’s actually pretty easy to make (no sewing needed!) and may just lead to hours of feline entertainment. Get the how-to here.

photo: Lee Schellenberger via Brit + Co

Hanging Hammock Planters
These awesome macrame planters from Brit + Co are basically the flora version of a relaxing place to hang. They’re an easy DIY craft that even littles can help make—and there’s no better way to nurture your indoor plants. Check out the instructions here.

photo: Swoon Interiors

Basketball Net Hammock
You say “basketball net,” we say “sports gear storage”. This idea is the perfect way to decorate a pint-sized point guard’s bedroom and keep track of all those basketballs, too. Though Pottery Barn Kids is no longer selling this sweet net, you can try a DIY version thanks to She’s Crafty.

Which hammock would your kids love having in the house?

—Abigail Matsumoto

Kid Cat Clubs: Kitty Cafés Take NYC!

by Yuliya GeikhmanMay 11, 2016

New York City’s gone cat crazy. The town has whole-heartedly embraced the Japanese concept of the “cat café” and the kitty- and kiddie-friendly spots are opening around NYC faster than you can say “Meow.” (One, as recently as last week!) Visiting the cafes — where all the feline residents are up for adoption — is not only a thrill for the little ones, it’s a way to help socialize the cats and support small animal shelters. So what are you waiting for? There are purring cats to be petted!

Note: These cafés welcome walk-in customers, but for guaranteed quality kitty time, make a reservation online or by phone.

Little Lions
Little Lions is a slick space that opened in February and has already found more than 20 cats their forever homes.

All visitors must check in at the teahouse next door, which is full of cat-themed trinkets and a wide selection of delicious treats from scones to frittatas. Teahouse patrons can watch the kitties play through a large window that looks into the cafe space — which incidentally, is the key to enjoying the experience if you’re allergic and the rest of the family wants to pay the cats a visit. (Customers are also welcome to grab a snack from the teahouse and bring it into the cafe.)

The Cat Café
The cafe is large with plenty of climbing and hiding spaces, and for the most part, the cats are friendly and laid-back. Lots of comfortable couches and chairs are arranged around tables, so you really can just come in and eat at a table while your kids play with the cats. Some cats are more willing to play than others, but with 12 to 15 cats occupying the space at a time, there’s sure to be at least one cat who will win your kid’s heart.

When to Go With Kids
Children are welcome on weekends from 10 to noon, and on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 3 to 5. No more than 15 people can reserve at one time so don’t worry about it getting too crowded. But if you’re looking for a more intimate setting, opt for the weekdays when the place doesn’t get as busy. Another weekday bonus: every Thursday at 4:30, Little Lions hosts a half hour cat-themed reading circle. And if your child is over 9, he or she is welcome to join the regularly-scheduled movie nights; special kiddie movie nights are scheduled on occasion as well.

If your kids just want to play with the cats, there’s a wall of toys to choose from. Cat-themed books and toys are placed throughout the cafe (all of which are available for sale), and the kids will dig the adorable free cat ear headbands.

Groups & Parties
If you’ve got a large group of 15 or more you can book the entire space, and yes, Little Lions does birthday parties, but all guests must be age 8 or older.

Little Lions has it all: caring staff, a great space, and sweet cats. Just wait a bit before you bring your baby in: minimum age requirement is 3 years old (for the safety of everyone involved).

Little Lions
$11 per person
Wed. & Thurs. 3-5 p.m., Sat. & Sun. 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
40 Grand St.
Soho
646-484-6250
Online: littlelionsnyc.com

Brooklyn Cat Cafe
After a successful trial run as a temporary cat cafe in Fort Greene, the Brooklyn Cat Cafe is back and this time it’s here to stay. The cafe is run entirely by volunteers and works in conjunction with the Brooklyn Bridge Welfare Coalition to find its wonderful cats.

Walking into the cafe feels like walking into someone’s living room. Comfy couches line the walls, and an activity nook makes a perfect place for cats and kids to bond. Pre-packaged treats are available for purchase with plenty of vegan and vegetarian treats on hand, but the area has no shortage of options when it comes to food.

Unlike most other cat cafes, there are no designated kid times: children of any age are welcome any time the space is open. There isn’t much wiggle room, so kids can get up close and personal with the cats with a fun assortment of laser pointers and cat toys. Before you leave, help your kids peek into the enclosed glass space in the front, where a mother and her nursing babies are currently housed.

Watch the calendar for children’s events, like the upcoming cat masks craft day for 3 to 5-year-olds on May 21. (The cafe is also looking into ways interested older kids ages 12 and up can volunteer and help out.)

As this cafe is so young, the logistics are still being worked out, but chances are the space will get more crowded on weekends. Although the cafe is large, it’s narrow so leave the stroller at home if you can, and head straight for the back rug where the kitties love to play.

The Brooklyn Cat Cafe has some of the friendliest kitties, chosen lovingly by volunteers who know their way around cats. If you find it hard to walk away from these delightfully playful kitties, the Brooklyn Cat Cafe handles all adoptions directly. If you do decide to adopt, the cafe will help you out with a cat food care package and a few veterinarians who’ll throw in a discount.

Brooklyn Cat Cafe
$5 per person, per half hour
Wed.-Fri. 3-7 p.m., Sat. & Sun. 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
149 Atlantic Ave.
Cobble Hill
Online: catcafebk.com

photo: Koneko Cat Cafe

Koneko Cat Café
One of the pioneers in the NYC cat café scene (they claim to be the first cat café in the country!), the Lower East Side’s Koneko prides itself on having not one, not two, but three kid-friendly “Cattery” spaces, including an outdoor “Catio” — the only space of its kind in the U.S.

A clean and bright space, you can expect both sweet and savory Japanese eats here, as well as coffees, teas, and grown-up drinks ranging from wine to beer to sake and sparkling.

Kids are welcome any time, but an especially fun time to drop by is on Wednesday the official “Kids Day”, when lots of other young people are enjoying the feline friends. Make reservations for your visit online here.

Events & Parties
Koneko hosts multiple events throughout the month, and recently launched Kiddycat Party Packages. So, yes, if you have a cat-crazy kid, you can host a birthday party here. A starter party package for a minimum of 10 kids and max of 20 includes cake and candles, juice, 45 minutes of cat play time and a photo collage of the experience. Rates are $50 per child, with lots of add-ons available like photoshoots with a favorite cat, make-your-own kitty ear band, T-shirt, etc. and more.

Koneko
26 Clinton St.
Lower East Side
Info@konekonyc.com
Online: konekonyc.com

Have you visited one of NYC’s cat cafes with the kids? Tell us about your experience in the comments!

— Yuliya Geikhman

Seattle Meowtropolitan: The City’s First Cat Café

by Helen Walker GreenMarch 29, 2016

Looking for the purr-fect way to spend the day? Seattle Meowtropolitan, Wallingford’s newest coffee shop, is not only a good place to enjoy a cup o’ Joe, it’s home to a friendly clan of resident cats and a few felines looking for their forever homes. Read on for the tail of Seattle’s first and only cat café.

photo: Helen Walker Green

Furry Friends
PAWS for a moment to look through the windows of Seattle Meowtropolitan and you’ll see cats climbing along wooden walkways, snoozing in prime sunny spots, playing hide ‘n’ seek in cardboard boxes and just watching life pass by. You’ll also spot humans drinking coffee and having a bite to eat, surrounded by several bewhiskered friends.

photo: Helen Walker Green

The Cat Lounge
You can pop into the café any time for a coffee, delicious eats and a little cat watching through the viewing window, but you’ll need to make a reservation to enter the cat lounge. Psst… walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are highly recommended. For $10 per person, you and your sidekick can spend an hour in the company of these fine felines while enjoying a free coffee or kid-sized drink.

Good to Know: You must be 8 and over to enter the cat lounge, but younger sibs can still enjoy viewing the kitties from the café or enjoying a game of Cat-opoly.

photo: Helen Walker Green

The Knights of Meowtropolitan
The cat lounge is a custom-built, kitty hangout complete with medieval cat castle—where cats with names like Robin Masked Maiden and Clouds Soft Paws patrol along aerial walkways and sometimes try to “pet” unsuspecting humans as they pass underneath. The Knights of Meowtropolitan (the resident cats) and Feline Travelers (kitties up for adoption) will be happy to greet you with enthusiastic purrs, head rubs and the occasional playful swat. Cat lounge residents include Penguin the Explorer, Nova the Nose, Django Silky Fox, Pink Skywalker and Lily the Lapsitter (all featured in our photos… see if you can figure out who’s who).

photo: Helen Walker Green

The Furrball Facts
Entry into the cat lounge starts ten minutes after the hour (if you make a reservation for 11 a.m. your cat lounge time starts at 11:10 a.m. and lasts until noon.). Psst… order your free drink from the barista first, then check in. You will enter the cat lounge through an enclosed entry way, so no furry friends can escape. It’s similar to entering or leaving a butterfly garden, except you’ve got to be on the lookout for cat hitchhikers (probably a bit more obvious, what with the claws n’ all, but you never know).

photo: Helen Walker Green

Cats Rule!
The cats have made their own rules for you to follow: “Dear humans, welcome to the Feline Kingdom of Meowtroplitan.” Their rules include, “gently stick out a human paw and let us smell you first.” There’s also a sign telling you it’s “your own choice to bring food or drink into the cat lounge and you must assume responsibility for consumables” – this is how Seattle gets to enjoy a cat café and still abide by all the rules and regulations of King County’s Board of Health. Any food and drink you take in has to be consumed in the cat lounge and can’t be brought back out.

photo: Helen Walker Green

Fluffy Encounters
Once you’ve settled in with your java and treats, and the kiddos have their hot chocolates (psst… be sure to ask for a cool cinnamon paw print on top!), you’ll be surrounded by felines of all stripes (and some with none). Feline Guardians (human staff) keep a friendly eye on things and cats can retreat to their cats-only room if they get tired of being social.

photos: Helen Walker Green

The Cool Cat Vibe
The cat lounge has a nice coffee shop atmosphere with wooden benches and sheepskins. You can pet the cats, play with them (cat toys provided) or simply relax and enjoy time spent in the zen-like presence of kitties.

photo: Helen Walker Green

Meowtropolitan’s cats are most active at the beginning of the day, after feeding time. If you’re free at 11 a.m. and want to play with furry bundles of energy, that’s the best time to reserve. But the café encourages everyone to be open to adopting cats who are not the most social and energetic. Some cats just want a loving home to relax in and enjoy sitting on your lap and being pampered.

photo: Helen Walker Green

The Story Behind Cat Cafés
Cat cafés got their start in Taiwan, when the Cat Flower Garden opened in 1998. They soon became a big hit in Japan where many big city residents could not have a pet in their apartments. Now, the cat café business has spread worldwide—you can sip coffee and cuddle with cats everywhere from St. Petersburg to Paris to Mexico City!

photo: Helen Walker Green

Good to Know: Pick up a Meowtropolitan stamp card—you’ll get a stamp for each drink purchased or cat lounge visit. Buy 8 and your 9th drink or cat lounge visit is FREE!

Seattle Meowtropolitan
1225 N. 45th St.,
Seattle, Wa 98103
206-632-2330
Online: seattlemeowtropolitan.com or map it

Cat Lounge Hours: Tues.-Sun., 11 a.m.-3 p.m. & 4 p.m.-9 p.m.

Note: The cat lounge is closed on Mondays, but the café is open and you’re welcome to come by and watch the cats relax on their “day off.” Visitors must be at least 8 years old to enter the cat lounge and all visitors under 13 must be accompanied and supervised by an adult. Walk-ins are welcome based on availability.

Have we purr-suaded you to check out Seattle Meowtropolitan? Did you have a paw-sitive experience? Tell us about your experience in the Comments below!

— Helen Walker Green

5 Easy Ways to Make The Cat in the Hat

by Gabby CullenFebruary 27, 2015

Is it too cold to play outside today? Do you like to cut, glue and scribble away? We’d like to think this might be a little diddy Dr. Suess might say! In honor of the author’s birthday we’ve dug deep in our hats and pulled out the most awesome ways to make that loveable (but oh so troublesome!) rainy day visitor. Scroll down to see five different and easy ideas for crafting the Cat in the Hat.

photo: Kimberly via A Night Owl

1. Paper Plate Cat Hats
Parents, you’ll love watching your kids prance and dance like that mischievous feline. Mama Kimberly of A Night Owl offers up an easy way to explore The Cat in the Hat with (what else?) mile-high cat hats. Paper plates, red and white paint, glue and eager Seuss fans are all you’ll need, as well as the complete tutorial over at A Night Owl.

photo: Wendy Piersall via Woo Jr.

2. Cat in the Hat Puppet
Grab your red, white and black pipe cleaners, googly eyes and glue–hot glue works best but Elmer’s will do the trick–and get to creating a Cat puppet. It’s the perfect prop for re-creating that rainy day tome. Got a few extra minutes? Hope over to Woo Jr, where blogger mama Wendy overs up the how-to for not only the Cat in the Hat but his partners in crime, Thing 1 and 2.

photo: Vic Saley via Obseussed

3. Cat in the Hat Pencil Cup
Vic Saley is Obseussed, as you can clearly see with a quick click over to her blog. We are obsessed with her adorable Cat in the Hat pencil cans. A Seuss worthy project, it’s also a great way to reuse old cans—the Lorax would approve! Have the kids color the cat’s hat, then work with other materials including felt, glue and marke pens. For the whole she-bang, hop over to Obseussed.

photo: via The Stuff We Do

4. Cat in the Hat Foot Prints
Footprint art anything is always a hit and we love how blogger/teacher Sherry transformed little toes into a liking of the classic Seuss character. Grab some construction paper, red and green paint, googly eyes and get steppin. For more about how to create this craft, head over to The Stuff We Do.

photo: Melissa Coleman via This Girl’s Life

5. Classic Cat in the Hat
A fine design, oh what a find! We are loving this classic Cat in the Hat paper plate craft (those whiskers!) Melissa Coleman offers up a tutorial using those go-to supplies all kids can use, including markers or paint (pick one!), pipe cleaners, googly eyes, paper and of course, paper plates. We love the extra bowtie added for a little pizzazz. Find out how it’s done over at This Girl’s Life.

What is your favorite way to make The Cat in the Hat? Share with us in the Comments!

–Gabby Cullen

Just Opened! A Purr-fect Place for Cat Lovers

by Marissa MullenJanuary 26, 2015

Let’s face it — lots of kids are fascinated by cats. After all, cats can shimmy up walls, scamper atop high furniture, and are loving and playful. If your family is not quite ready for a cat of your own though, pay a visit to San Diego’s newly-opened Cat Café downtown. Kiddos can pet and play with the kitties, and you even have the option of adopting one (or more). Here’s your insider’s guide to The Cat Café.

The Cat Café Concept
Cat cafés originated in Taiwan, and eventually became popular in Japan, where many apartments forbid pet ownership. They are slowly gaining popularity within the United States and throughout the world. For kids wanting a kitty but can’t have one of their own -– whether due to allergies, household rules or otherwise — a trip to the Cat Café in San Diego is one way to let them get the kitty time they’re craving.

Photo Credit: Marissa Mullen

What’s Inside
When you enter The Cat Café, you’re greeted with the coffee shop area where you begin your journey. All that’s required to see the cats is to purchase a drink or food item. On the menu are a variety of different coffees, hot chocolate, tea, assorted sodas, and bottled water. If you want a treat to munch on, there are also tasty muffins, croissants, donuts, scones and other snacks. You can then move on to the enclosed play space, which houses the cats.

The number of cats running the joint varies at any given time, but there could potentially be as many as ten. Feel free to spread out on the comfy carpet and pet the kitty of your choice. The room is filled with feline comforts like soft beds, scratching posts, and climbing shelves. There are also feather toys, balls, and cat tunnels that kids can use to interact with the cats. Tables and chairs are set up, should you prefer to sit with your drink and simply watch the kitties in action. There’s even free Wi-Fi!

Want To Take A Kitty Home?
The Cat Café offers the unique experience of giving you a good look at the cats’ personalities through lots of hands-on playtime and cuddling. If you and the kids fall in love with a kitty (which is likely to happen), you have the option of adopting it! The Cat Café has a partnership with the San Diego Humane Society, which is where the kitties in the café come from. The cats have been spayed, neutered, and are up to date on their vaccinations. Simply pay the reasonable adoption fee of $65 for cats or $95 for kittens, and you can take one home on the same day. You’ll also get a box of freebies for your new kitty.

Know Before You Go
The Cat Café is open daily from 7 a.m – 3 p.m. If it’s busy, there will be a little bit of a wait before you can claw your way into the cat area. But it’s worth it! There’s also a 15-minute time limit to play with the kitties when there are a several people waiting. Remember to encourage your little ones to be gentle while petting the kitties!

472 Third Ave.
San Diego, Ca 92101
619-786-2289
Online: catcafesd.com

Have you visited The Cat Café? Tell us what you thought about it!

— Written and photographed by Marissa Mullen

Meow Parlour: LES Cat Cafe Offers Cats Without the Commitment

by rtstephaniepedersenJanuary 7, 2015

If your kids wish you were one of the 30 percent of NYC households that owns at least one cat (statistic courtesy of the American Veterinary Medical Association), they now have an easy way to enjoy kitty time: Meow Parlour, the new “cuddle a kitty” cat cafe that just opened on the Lower East Side.

The Cat Cafe Concept

Modeled on cat cafes popular in Japan (where small apartments and a pet-averse culture make it difficult to own a feline), South Korea and Taiwan, this is an animal lover’s dreamland – perfect for kids who want a kitty but can’t have one. Whether you’re a cat free household due to allergy, your apartment building’s “no pet” rule, or a simple lack of interest on your part, Meow Parlour should cure your kid’s cat wish, at least for a little while.

What You’ll Find Inside

The Meow Parlour boasts 12 free-roaming cats, from kitten to mature adult. Some are outgoing, some just-friendly-enough, others timid. To spend time with all of them, you rent access to the space, dropping by a 30-minute visit or staying for up to 5 hours. Prices start at $4 per person per half-hour. The number of guests is limited to 10 at a time. Not into cats yourself? Let your kid do the cuddling while you take advantage of complimentary Wi-Fi and a moment to use your laptop without your kid asking for attention.

Because of health department regulations, no food is made or sold within the cat café, though you can bring in food that you’ve purchased at the Meow Parlour Patisserie (owned by the Meow Parlour owners), just a few steps away. Macarons, doughnuts, pastries, coffee, tea, hot chocolate and other pastry house treats are available. Everything on the Patisserie menu is seriously amazing: The owners are pastry chefs who met in culinary school; they first opened a pastry shop together before branching into the world of pet parlours.

How Can You Get Cat Cuddle Time?

Visitations must be booked ahead of time and we hear the slots for older kids and adults are filled through February. Jump onto the online scheduling page to reserve your day and time for the future now. The Meow Parlour has extensive rules about who can visit the Parlour, how many people can come as a group, hand sanitation, how to behave around sleeping cats, which animals are to be left alone and even visitor behavior within the space. Be sure to read the rules online before submitting your booking. And whatever you do, do not bring in a person who you haven’t registered beforehand: The Meow Parlour is very strict about such things and one unregistered person is enough to get the entire group turned away.

Meow Parlour’s main hours are for guests ages 10 through adult. Younger visitors are allowed only during specially-designated times on Mon., Tues. and Thurs., from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Note: Meow Parlour is very strict about this, so don’t try to sneak an underage sibling in with your older children during main hours. Further, be prepared to sign a release on all kids you bring into Meow Parlour.

All of that being said, don’t let the fussy rules scare you away. The staff is friendly and well meaning and wonderful at showing the kids how to treat cats with respect and love. Meow Parlour is a fun, easy way to introduce your kids to cats if you don’t have pets at home. Gift certificates are available, if you want to share the love with other cat-crazy kids or adults.

What Happens if You Fall in Love?

Should all this time in the Meow Parlour lead you to want a fabulous feline of your own, you’re in luck: All animals are up for adoption through KittyKind, an all-volunteer rescue group; visiting over several days lets you and your family get to know a particular animal before committing. As Meow Parlour mascots leave for forever homes of their own, KittyKind provides new cats for Meow Parlour guests to spend time with.

Go:

Meow Parlour
46 Hester St., Lower East Side
Online: www.meowparlour.com/
No phone calls
General Visiting Hours: Tues. – Thurs. 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Visiting Hours for Children Under 10 years: Mon., Tues, Thurs.: 3 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Photos: Meow Parlour

Spring Fling! See Old Navy’s New Fashion Looks for Kids

by Julie SegussDecember 20, 2014

Dreaming of warmer (and less snowy!) days ahead? Get your kids ready for that first warm, sunny day with some adorable duds from Old Navy’s spring collection. You’ll love their graphic tees and high-top sneakers for boys and pretty dresses and tops for girls. We picked a few outfits that are perfect for NYC kids to wear for this season’s first picnic in Central Park or playground play date.

ABOVE: Whether he’s kickin’ around a ball in Brooklyn Bridge Park or riding in the stroller through the West Village, your little guy will look city-cool in this black and grey outfit. Pair dark blue pants – that can be rolled up with buttons when the afternoon sun heats up the day – with a bold graphic tee. You know he’ll love choo-choo’ing all over town.

ABOVE: Denim and stripes collide in this trendy little number for your mini fashionista. You’ll love that even though it looks like two pieces, it’s an all-in-one dress that makes getting ready and getting out the door before preschool a breeze. She’ll be ready to walk the runway at Fashion Week, or at least ride the carousel in Bryant Park, wearing red flats with adorable heart cut-outs.

ABOVE: You know she’s going to want to break out the shorts the second the mercury makes it above 60 degrees, so have a new pair waiting for her. These navy shorts will go with just about anything including this bright, bold kitty tee. A sweet look for your little animal lover, perfect for watching dogs run around Central Park or enjoying some feline cuddle time at the Lower East Side’s Meow Parlour.

ABOVE: Easy does it for your NYC guy. Dress him head-to-toe in basics that can be mixed and matched again and again. A colored tee, hooded jacket, black sneaks and jeans are the kind of style that works for boys when they’re walking on The High Line with friends, rockin’ out at after-school music lessons or taking the subway.

Which look is your favorite?

— Julie Seguss

ML Interest Tag: feline

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