Calm, clean and cat friendly

House Rules

To keep The Scratching Post calm, safe, clean, and enjoyable for both our cats and our visitors, we ask all guests to follow our house rules during their visit.

Cats first, always

Their comfort and wellbeing come first.

Our cats’ comfort and well being always come first. Some will be curious and sociable, while others may prefer to snooze, observe from a distance, or enjoy their own space.

We always let the cats set the pace.

Before your visit

Please follow these house rules.

They help us keep the cafe peaceful, hygienic, and safe for our resident cats and visitors.

Please use the overshoes provided

All guests must wear the overshoes provided when entering the cat area. This helps us maintain good hygiene and keep the environment as clean and safe as possible for our cats.

Please clean your hands as requested

Good hand hygiene is an important part of visiting the cafe. We ask all guests to follow our hand hygiene guidance, including sanitising or washing hands when asked to do so.

Please be gentle and calm around the cats

Quiet voices and relaxed behaviour help create a peaceful environment for everyone.

Let the cats come to you

Some cats enjoy attention straight away, while others prefer to take their time. Please allow them to choose how and when they interact.

Please do not pick up, chase, or corner the cats

Not all cats enjoy being handled, and we want them to feel safe and in control of their space at all times.

Please do not wake sleeping cats

If a cat is curled up and resting, please let them enjoy their nap.

Food and drink are for people only

Please do not feed the cats unless invited to do so by a member of staff.

Please follow staff guidance at all times

We know our cats well and may step in if a cat needs space or a situation needs calming down.

No visitor pets, please

While your pet may be very familiar with cats and quite happy in their company, our resident cats may not feel the same. To help keep the cafe calm, safe, and stress-free for them, visitors must not bring their own animals into the cat lounge.

Children attending Kitten Club must be supervised throughout

Kitten Club sessions are designed to be calm, smaller-group experiences for younger cat lovers, with their responsible adult present and supervising at all times.

Please remember that cats are animals

Even in a calm and carefully managed setting, cats may occasionally scratch or nip if startled, overstimulated, or caught up in playful behaviour. Grabbing with paws and scratching can sometimes be part of normal cat play, especially in younger or more energetic cats. Please interact gently, follow staff guidance, and respect each cat’s space at all times. If needed, we recommend following current NHS advice on animal bites and scratches.

Most importantly, enjoy your visit

Relax, take your time, and enjoy getting to know our cats in their own way.

Ready to visit?

Book your seat before you arrive.

Booking helps us manage the cafe calmly and comfortably for people and cats.

Go to booking