A beloved cat cafe has announced it’s being forced to close after seven years due to soaring costs.
At the quirky eatery customers can have a drink or a bite to eat surrounded by 16 moggies.
Bosses said they had made the “very difficult decision” after battling increasing expenses.
The Cosy Cat Cafe located in Herne Bay, Kent, will close its doors for good at the end of the month.
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The owner, Chris, wrote: “Despite our efforts to continue trading, we have had to accept that the time has come to close the cafe.
“Rising costs, to name but one thing, has forced our decision.
“It is with great sadness that we want to let everyone know that we are closing on 31 January.
“Without the support of our wonderful volunteers, sponsors and customers, we would have closed earlier.”
They went on to plead with animal lovers in the area to take in the felines who live there, as reported by Need To Know.
Chris added: “The cats are and will be our priority and although some of the cats have offers of forever homes there are still cats looking for a new home.
“If you are considering adoption, then please either send a message to our page or drop us an email as we will not be able to respond on our Facebook page.
“All of the cats are indoor cats only, they haven’t been used to roads so you would have to either keep them indoors or if you have a catio that would work.
“We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has been on this journey with us over the past seven years and we hope that you are able to pop in and see us before we close.”
The announcement triggered an emotional response from customers and residents and many have offered to help rehome the cats.
One person said: “Really sorry.
“We love waving at the cats through the window.”
Someone else said: “I’m so very sad to hear that you’ve had to make this very difficult decision.
“Your cafe was such a warm and welcoming place when we visited after losing both our beautiful girls during a Christmas holiday way back in 2018.
“I’ve never forgotten the solace I found, being able to have long-missed cat cuddles.
“We have nothing like The Cosy Cat Cafe where we live, which made it an even more memorable experience and one I’ll always remember.
“Thank you for offering such a special place.
“Wishing you all, cats and humans, all the very best for the future.”
A third person added: “So sorry to hear this Chris.
“I have three indoor cats and can adopt another one if you still have any needing homes.”
Another local said: “This has made me feel so sad this afternoon.
“Whenever I’ve been in, as a bit of a bonkers person I have enjoyed lots of cat cuddles and nothing but kindness from Chris and everyone.
“I want to come down as soon as possible but I worry about the weather over the next day or so.
“Thank you for everything.”
A fifth person added: “A tough decision for you Chris but you have tried your best.
“So sad for the gorgeous cats but I know you will ensure they go to the best homes
“Thinking of you and your amazing staff and volunteers and sending hugs
“The Cosy Cat Cafe has been an amazing place and has always had the cats’ interests and welfare at heart
“Hoping all the cats find their purrfect new homes and settle in quickly.
“We will look forward to visiting next week and saying farewell to you all.”
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