City Lifestyle

Want to start a publication?

Learn More

Featured Article

Purrfect Match

Needing a companion, perhaps a cat? Care for a cat with Catio Cat Lounge

Article by Mary Compton

Photography by Provided by Catio Cat Lounge

Originally published in Brentwood Lifestyle

Stroll over to Catio Cat Lounge in Nashville to play, foster, or adopt a cat or kitten. This 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization takes in cats of all ages and needs. The cats roam freely around the lounge, with spots for napping, toys for playing, and treats for those on good behavior. There are places to hide and places to get sky-high, allowing the cats to feel safe and engaged. They have a room for special needs cats, such as those who are older, have medical issues and disabilities, or ones who get overstimulated.

An adamant animal lover and loyal employee, Kaitlin Cashion, loves working and spending time with these cute kitties.  She loves “Being able to see the impact we’re making every day.” And says, “I get to see lives being changed every day with these cats.”

Since 2019, the cat lounge has placed over 6,000 kitties in loving forever homes.

Currently, there are approximately 90 cats listed for adoption. Since it is ‘kitten season,’ the lounge has its hands full of cats perfect for adoption.

Why choose a cat as a pet? Cats are easy to love, low maintenance, and great with people and families of all shapes and sizes. Cats each have a unique personality, flair, and temperament. They are a great way to teach responsibility and care.  

If you are considering adopting, feel free to stop by the lounge, as they love walk-ins and inquiries. With seven employees on staff, you can chat with a member of the team for any questions, as well as spend time with the cats to find the proper bond and match for you. Usually, you will spend 30 minutes to an hour visiting with the cats to find the right suit. They also encourage pair bonding adoptions, meaning adopting more than one cat, usually two together.  

When you find the kitty, the adoption process is simple. First, apply in person at the Catio, where one of the employees will be happy to walk you through the process. The method includes completing the application, acknowledging the Catio’s Adoption Contract, Conducting Reference Checks, and submitting it to the adoption manager. Once the adoption manager approves, then you are all set to take the kitty home, and an employee will conduct a follow-up in two weeks to see how the cat is acclimating.

While all Catio cats are spayed and neutered, if you adopt a cat from an outside source, ensure that it is spayed and neutered. This helps keep the cat healthy and also protects against long-term issues associated with overpopulation.

This fall, the Catio has some up-and-coming events. Catio plans on hosting its bi-annual Vendor Fair. Additionally, every few months, the Catio hosts various events, ranging from beer tastings to family-friendly activities and other fun-filled events. 

If you are interested in learning more about the Catio or how you can help its cause, please visit their website.

Thecationashville.com

Feline Facts

  • The oldest domesticated cat existed 9,500 years ago
  • Cats mark their owners as possessions
  • The richest cat in the world inherited $13 million from its owner
  • Cats spend 70% of their lives sleeping