What Crumbs & Whiskers is and how the pricing works
Crumbs & Whiskers is a cat café chain where you pay an hourly rate to spend time in a room with adoptable cats while eating food and drinking beverages. You do not pay separately for the cats — the hourly fee covers your access to the cat interaction space. Food and drinks are ordered and charged separately, like at any café.
The hourly rate varies by location and time of day. Peak hours (typically afternoons and weekends) cost more than off-peak hours (weekday mornings). Most locations charge between $15 and $30 per hour, though this changes by city and season. You book a time slot in advance through their website or by phone, and your session begins when you arrive.
The cats in the space are all available for adoption through partner rescue organizations. Crumbs & Whiskers does not own the cats — they are fostered or temporarily housed there. If you want to adopt one of the cats you meet, the café can connect you with the rescue organization handling that cat's adoption.
Key Takeaways
- You pay an hourly rate to enter the cat room, with prices varying by location, day of the week, and time of day.
- Food and drinks are ordered separately and cost extra, similar to a regular café menu.
- All cats in the space are adoptable through partner rescue organizations, and staff can help you start the adoption process if you find a cat you want to take home.
- You must book a time slot ahead of time — walk-ins are not typically accepted because space is limited.
- Sessions usually last one hour, though some locations offer longer blocks if you want to extend your visit.
How to book a session at Crumbs & Whiskers
Booking happens online through the Crumbs & Whiskers website or by calling the specific location you want to visit. You select your preferred date, time slot, and how many people will be in your group. The website shows you available times and the price for each slot — off-peak times are cheaper than peak times.
Most locations require you to book at least a few days in advance, especially for weekend slots. During busy seasons (holidays, summer), slots fill up weeks ahead. You pay when you book, not when you arrive. If you need to cancel, check the location's cancellation policy — most allow free cancellation up to 24 or 48 hours before your session.
When you arrive, staff will give you a brief orientation about how to interact with the cats and any house rules for that location. Some cats are more social than others, and staff can tell you which ones are friendly and which prefer to be left alone.
What to expect during your visit
Your session takes place in a dedicated room filled with cat furniture, toys, and the adoptable cats. You can pet, play with, and photograph the cats. The room is designed so the cats can retreat to high perches or enclosed spaces if they want a break from interaction.
You can order food and drinks from the café menu at any point during your session. Staff bring items to you in the cat room. Typical menus include coffee, tea, pastries, sandwiches, and desserts — the exact offerings vary by location. Prices are standard café pricing, usually $5 to $15 per item.
The session is yours to use as you like. Some people spend the whole hour playing actively with the cats; others sit quietly and let the cats come to them. You can take photos and videos. Most locations allow you to bring your own camera or phone, though some have restrictions on professional photography or video equipment.
Age requirements and group size limits
Most Crumbs & Whiskers locations require visitors to be at least 13 years old, though some allow younger children if accompanied by an adult. Check your specific location's policy before booking, as rules vary. Children under the age limit may not be permitted in the cat room at all, even with supervision.
Group size is usually limited to 4 to 6 people per session, depending on the location and room size. Larger groups may need to book multiple time slots or split into separate sessions. If you are planning a group visit, book as early as possible because group slots fill quickly.
Allergies, health, and cat safety
If you have cat allergies, Crumbs & Whiskers may not be the right experience for you. The cat room is not allergen-free, and you will be in close proximity to multiple cats for an hour. Some locations offer allergy-friendly sessions with fewer cats or at different times, but this is not standard across all locations — call ahead to ask.
Staff enforce rules to keep the cats safe and comfortable. You cannot pick up cats unless staff say it is okay, and you must wash your hands before entering the room. Do not corner a cat or force interaction. If a cat shows signs of stress (hissing, swatting, hiding), leave it alone. Staff are watching and will redirect you if needed.
If you are sick or have been sick recently, many locations ask that you reschedule. This protects the cats from illness. Check the location's health policy when you book.
Adoption process if you fall in love with a cat
If you want to adopt one of the cats you meet, tell a staff member before you leave. They will give you information about the rescue organization that is handling that cat's adoption. The adoption process is separate from Crumbs & Whiskers — you work directly with the rescue.
Adoption typically involves filling out an process, providing references, and sometimes a home visit. The rescue will ask about your living situation, other pets, and experience with cats. Adoption fees usually range from $50 to $200, depending on the rescue and the cat's age and health status.
The cat will not go home with you the same day. Rescues need time to process your process and make sure the match is right. Most adoptions take one to three weeks from process to pickup.
Locations and how they differ
Crumbs & Whiskers has multiple locations across the United States, with the original in Washington, D.C., and others in cities including San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago. Each location is independently operated, so pricing, hours, menu, and cat selection vary.
Before you book, check the specific location's website or call them directly. Hours change seasonally, and some locations close for holidays or maintenance. Peak season pricing (summer and December) is higher than off-season pricing (January through March). The number of cats in the room also varies by location and time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own cat to Crumbs & Whiskers?
No. The space is reserved for the café's adoptable cats only. Bringing your own cat would stress the resident cats and create safety issues. If you have a cat at home, you can still visit and interact with the café's cats.
What if I am allergic to cats but still want to go?
Call your location ahead of time and ask if they offer low-allergen sessions or have any accommodations. Some locations may have sessions with fewer cats or air filtration options, but this is not may provide. If you have severe allergies, this experience may not be suitable for you.
Do I have to adopt a cat if I visit?
No. You can visit purely to spend time with cats and enjoy the café experience. There is no pressure to adopt. Many people visit multiple times without adopting.
Can I book a private session for a birthday party or special event?
Some locations offer private bookings for groups, but availability and pricing vary. Contact your location directly to ask about private event options and pricing.
What happens if a cat scratches or bites me during my session?
Scratches and bites are rare because staff monitor interactions closely, but they can happen. Most locations have you sign a waiver acknowledging this risk when you book. If you are injured, tell staff when ready. The rescue organization may have information about the cat's medical history, but you are responsible for any medical care you need.