Cat cafe with a shelter partner

Locals, tourists, students, couples and families, plus people who can't have a pet at home. Birthday groups and corporate outings can also book the space.

Timed entry fees or reservations, food and drink sales, merchandise, private bookings, and sometimes memberships. Many cafes also donate part of their takings to the rescue partner.

• Customer service
• Calm, confident animal handling
• Basic cafe or food prep skills
• Organizing staff and volunteers

• Health department permits: many places require food areas to be physically separate from animal areas, so check local rules before you design the space
• Zoning, business license and lease terms that allow animals
• General liability insurance that covers bites, scratches and allergic reactions, plus workers' compensation once you hire
• Written agreement with your rescue partner covering animal care, vet costs and who is responsible if a cat gets sick
• Animal welfare: cats need rest areas, limits on guest numbers and clear rules for visitors
• Startup costs and rent can be high, and it takes time to build steady foot traffic

Startup costs are typically estimated around $40,000 to $200,000, depending on the space, the build-out and your equipment. Rent can be high, and it takes time to build steady foot traffic, so plan your budget with that in mind.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated around $10,000 to $40,000, depending on your location, entry fees, food and drink sales and event bookings. The estimate assumes you work at least 40 hours a week, especially early on.

Check health department permits, since many places require food areas to be physically separate from animal areas. Also check zoning, your business license and lease terms that allow animals, insurance, and a written agreement with your rescue partner covering care and vet costs.