Paws, Relax, Repeat – Your Cat-Filled Escape Awaits!
Whisker Wonderland is a cat lounge and adoption center with a primary focus on raising awareness and implementing change for homeless cats in the community of Pittsburgh. By bridging together cats, art, and a little bit of magic, Whisker Wonderland is a sanctuary for both humans and cats, providing an imaginative and immersive experience for people to interact with rescued community cats.
For a small entrance fee ($15 per hour), patrons will get a whimsical experience, as the lounge features murals created by local artists and handmade cat climbing structures made from repurposed materials. Visitors can come just to pet cats, to work/study, spend time with friends, or to potentially adopt. Come take a break from the busy, noisy world and experience the powerful, healing nature of cats! As I believe that all people can benefit from spending time with cats, there is a focus on inclusion and providing a calm, therapeutic environment for individuals with special needs. If you need certain accommodations, please reach out! Special time slots can be reserved for individuals with sensory issues, physical disabilities, etc.
WW partners with other local small businesses to create events for both children and adults. Check the “book here” page to book a visit and/or an event! Want to have your birthday party (or any other party) at Whisker Wonderland? We can do that too! Email or call for more info.
Whisker Wonderland also serves as a community hub: resources and training will be provided to the public to help educate and create change for stray and feral cats. Knowledge is power! We all have to do our part to help in this crisis.
Hours
- Monday-Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 12:00pm to 7:00pm
- Thursday: Appointment Only
- Friday: 12:00pm to 7:00pm
- Saturday: 12:00pm to 5:00pm
- Sunday: 12:00pm to 4:00pm
What is a
cat lounge?
Cat cafes originated in Asia in 1998. As they gained in popularity, these cafes started popping up in other parts of the world. The first cat cafe in the US was established in California in 2014. In the past few years, cat lounges and cafes have increased dramatically.
Cat lounges and cafes provide customers with the unique opportunity to spend time with cats short-term; it allows people to experience cats without the commitment of adoption. Many people enjoy spending time with cats, but either aren’t ready to adopt or can’t have a cat in their current home, so a cat lounge is ideal!
While most traditional shelters house cats in cages, cat lounges create a more natural experience for people to interact with cats. It also provides a space for potential adopters to meet multiple cats at one time. The lounge experience is also more comforting to the cats, as they feel “at home” and can roam freely, without the restraint of a cage. Meeting a cat in their natural environment allows potential adopters to see their true personalities.
Why are cat lounges
so needed?
There has been a huge increase in the number of stray and feral cats in our communities, especially since the COVID epidemic of 2020. Rescuers are finding more friendly cats that appear to have been abandoned by their people, many with health issues that urgently need addressed. Most of the cats found on the streets are unaltered (not spayed or neutered), meaning that they can have up to 4 litters per year!
There are only 2 large rescues in Pittsburgh: Humane Animal Rescue (HAR) and Animal Friends; while these are valuable assets, they do NOT come out to trap and rescue cats. Smaller rescues take on the responsibility and burden of coming out to help these cats, with little to no public funding. Most rescues have a 6-month wait list for surrenders, and often get 100+ requests per week for help. The problem is growing so fast that rescuers are not able to keep up with it, leaving more and more cats to continue to procreate and suffer outside.
So, what can be done??
Currently, there are no city programs to educate the community on what to do when they find a stray. People with questions are left to figure it out on their own, or to ask for help from small rescues. Since small rescues are overwhelmed with requests, it can take time to get the help that is needed. Many people in search of help feel lost and helpless.
The primary goal for Whisker Wonderland is to not only offer a comfortable, interactive environment for cats, but also to help educate the public about the stray and feral cat epidemic. Free resources are provided on-site to help people become part of the solution! Whisker Wonderland also offers FREE classes on TNR (trap neuter return), the most humane way to help decrease the number of homeless cats on the street. Stop on by or give a call to find out more.
Cat lounges offer a unique way for people to meet cats. While most large rescues house cats in cages, cat lounges create a more natural experience for people to interact with cats. Visitors can meet multiple cats at once which makes it easier to find the right match. Lounges also provide a more natural environment for people to interact with cats. Cats are very territorial and can be afraid in new environments; cat lounges allow people to meet them in a “home environment”, rather than a cage or “playroom” at a rescue.
About Anna
The Founder of Whisker Wonderland
Hi! My name is Anna Montano, and I am the creator of Whisker Wonderland! Since I was a child, I have always felt a deep, spiritual connection to animals. I truly believe that they are the key to learning true love, happiness, and purpose.
I worked in the corporate design field for a decade, trying to live as an artist in a world I never fit into. When I bought my home in the North Side, cats started showing up in my yard. At the time, I knew nothing about the crisis of cats on the street, but I knew I had to help. I started doing research, joined rescue pages on Facebook, chatted with fellow rescuers, asked questions, watched videos on trapping. I began fostering cats in my home. As I did more and more rescue work, I innately recognized that my purpose here on earth is to connect with the voiceless creatures that need help. To find a way to combine art, cats, and a little bit of magic to create a real-life wonderland.
So a few years ago, I made the decision to abandon the corporate world, to speak out and help the animals that come into my life. While some may say that I rescue cats, I truly believe that they have rescued me. They teach me patience, unconditional love, and hope. My goal has always been to help educate and empower people to aid in this fight, to show others the powerful love that comes from helping abandoned cats.
Whisker Wonderland has been created in honor of all the incredibly brave, loving cats that we rescue together. A cat lounge with a focus on awareness of the crisis we are facing with homeless cats.
About the rescue
All of the cats at Whisker Wonderland have been rescued by myself, and my rescue partner, Regina Deloria. We are both independent rescuers who met when we were called to help with a MASSIVE trapping project in the Troy Hill neighborhood. Upon meeting, it was clear to us that we both shared the same rescue mission, had the same passion for cats, and the same drive. Regina is hands-down one of the most loving and compassionate humans I have ever met. She works 3 jobs and still rescues more cats than anyone I know! Together we are an unstoppable force, fighting day and night to rescue cats from unimaginable circumstances.
About the muralists
Shane Pilster and Max Gonzales
Shane Pilster and Max Gonzales are renowned Pittsburgh-based artists, muralists, curators, educators, and community-focused graffiti artists. With decades of combined expertise in spray paint murals, art education, and public art initiatives, they bring bold creativity to every project. Known for their collaborations with local businesses, community organizations, private clients, global corporations, and government agencies, their work transforms spaces and inspires connection. Dedicated to innovation and creative growth, Shane and Max specialize in large-scale murals, community art projects, and educational programs, delivering exceptional results tailored to diverse audiences. They are always interested in projects of all sizes, connecting with other artists and communities, collaborations, and creating as often as possible.
Charms’ Story
Hi! My name is charms, and I am kind of famous around here!
Some horrible human left me outside in a parking lot next to the woods at 12 weeks old, unable to use my back legs. Luckily, Anna and Regina came to save me. They took me to Frankie’s Friends, where I lived for 2 months. The wonderful staff there ran tests and assessed me and decided that I was worth the fight. I came to live here at Whisker Wonderland so I can show people how brave and resilient I am. Being different is my strength and I am living my best life, so don’t feel bad for me!
Lounge Rules
- Be nice or leave. This is a happy place so leave your mood and ‘tude outside.
- Racist, sexist, homophobic, hate-speak will NOT be tolerated. If you engage in that stuff, you will be told to leave. We are sweet rescue kitties, we love everyone and so should you.
- Keep voices low and calm: we don’t wanna hear your screams. I get it, we are fabulous and you are excited. But we get scared, so please talk softly. Don’t be ratchet.
- DO NOT CHASE US!!! We are small and precious and we get freaked out by giant humans coming at us. BE CHILL.
- Please do not pick us up for goodness sakes!! Would you want someone you just met picking you up? NO. Of course not. Get to know us first before you try.
- Anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. We are cats, not babysitters.
- Kids that don’t listen (along with parents/caregivers that act oblivious) will be asked to leave. We are cute bb kitties that have been rescued from HORRIBLE circumstances: we deserve respect and peace.
Lounge Basics
- Whisker Wonderland has 3 areas to visit cats:
- The main area consists of 2 larger rooms, a hallway, and a “chill spot” with cozy seating in the back.
- There is a kitten room too!! EEEK!
- The last room is a quiet space for cats that need a time out or for people that have special needs.
- (There is also a small boutique in the front entrance with some cool brand merch and cat stuff!)
- Lounge visits can be booked by the hour: $15 per person (ages 3 and up)
- Visitors are asked to remove their shoes before entering the lounge; this is important to help limit dirt and germs that could make the kitties sick. Socks are provided if you need them, but feel free to bring your own comfy slippers if you like!
- We prefer for you to book online, but walk-ins are always welcome, as long as room allows!
- Special accommodations can be made if needed, please give a call or shoot us an email. We will do our best to meet your needs.
- Special events are typically held on Friday and Saturday evenings, so check our “book now” page!
- Private parties can also be booked for $300: This includes a 2-hour private session in the entire lounge for up to 10 people! Again, if you have an idea and want to make some changes to this, please contact us and we will try to get something worked out.
- All cats in the lounge are spayed/neutered, microchipped, up-to-date on vaccinations, tested for FIV/Felv, flea-treated, and dewormed.
Resources
FAQ
Is there an age restriction?
All are welcome! Lounge visit charge applies to people 3 yrs and up. Please keep in mind that there are cats here!! Although they are all sweet, they DO have nails!! Parents of very young children should be extremely cautious. Cats can become afraid when approached quickly; we want everyone to have a good experience, so please me mindful and aware during your visit.
Do I need to book a visit to the cat lounge ahead of time?
Booking ahead of time is preferred, but walk-ins are always welcome as long as we are not too busy. We want to ensure that all patrons and kitties have space and feel comfortable! Weekends are busy here, so booking ahead is best if you plan to come on Saturday or Sunday.
Can I bring my own cat?
No. Cats are very territorial and require respect of their personal space. New cats entering the lounge undergo a transitional process to get accustomed to their new space and to get to know the current residents. We also take great strides to make sure the lounge cats are healthy and can’t risk any outside illnesses coming into the lounge.
Are the cats adoptable?
Yes! Most of the cats are adoptable. There may be a few that are still being socialized (i.e. accustomed to humans), so they may not be ready to go home just yet. Check the bulletin boards inside the lounge to learn more about who is ready to go to their forever home!
Where do the cats come from?
All of the cats at Whisker Wonderland have been rescued by Anna and Regina. We are independent rescuers, which means that we take on ALL components of rescue: trapping, socializing, fostering, as well as covering all medical costs. If you’d like to help, please check out the Gofundme link or Amazon Wishlist.
I have a cat I can no longer care for, help?!!
Whisker Wonderland is NOT able to accept surrenders at this time. If you are experiencing a life issue and need to find a home for your cat, you may contact us for a referral list to rescues that may be able to help. Please keep in mind that most rescues are inundated with requests for help, so preparing ahead of time for potential issues is best.
I found a cat outside: what should I do?
If you FIND a cat outside, please contact us for some resources! Most people want someone to step in and help, but YOU are that someone! We are here to offer guidance, advice and support. We have a TON of experience and expertise in this area, please contact for support, but know that we need you to do your part as well.
Why is there a fee for visiting the Cat Lounge?
Cat care is expensive! Food, litter, and vet visits are all costly. We also pay to rent this space, so much of the money for visits and events goes to rent and utilities.
Do you do same day adoptions? Can I visit and leave that day with a cat?
No, I do NOT do same day adoptions. Cats are living creatures that require respect and consideration. Adopting a cat is a 15-20 year commitment: this decision should be made carefully. You will need time to get a room in your home ready for the cat, to gather supplies, etc. If you are looking to adopt, I suggest coming in to meet the kitties to see if there is a cat that you vibe with. Once you visit, if you are interested in a cat, you can apply for adoption. Anna is here to go over all of that information with you and to help you find the right cat for you and your family.
Adoption Process
- The adoption fee at Whisker Wonderland is $225
- All cats are spayed/neutered, up to date on rabies and FVRCP vaccinations, microchipped, tested for FIV/Felv, and have been dewormed and receive regular flea and parasite treatments
- You must be at least 21 years of age
- If you have another cat that you let go outside, I cannot adopt to you.
- If you are over 70 years of age, I will need you to have a plan for the cat if something happens to you.
- If you are adopting with another person, partner, or roommate, I need them to also come and meet the cat.
- If you rent, you must provide landlord’s contact info on the application
- If you have other cats in your home, you must email vet records to whiskerwonderlandcats@gmail.com showing the following:
- proof of spay/neuter
- combo test results (for FIV/Felv)
- proof that cat is up to date on rabies and FVRCP vaccines
- If you have a dog, you must show proof that they are up to date on rabies vaccine