CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – After a long wait, the Champaign-Urbana area is set to welcome a unique hangout spot for cat lovers next week.
The Scratching Post, advertised as a cat and board game cafe, began its journey in March of 2024 with the purchase of a property on University Avenue. Now, after a year and a few months of working through city permits, construction, planning, and inspections, all that’s left is for the cats to come in.
The business’s journey from start to finish has been well documented on its social media platforms, such as its Facebook. Finally, it will open its doors to cat and board game lovers alike on Wednesday, June 18.
The cat lounge portion of the building is almost an almost 1,000 square foot area that will be home to over 30 cats, serving as their foster home. Visitors can reserve time in the lounge to play with, pet, or just enjoy the company of the cats. All cats are also available for adoption.
“While adoption is the ultimate goal for all of our cats, the money you spend on your reservation fee goes towards their care and comfort,” The Scratching Post’s Frequently Asked Questions section says. “Food, litter, medication, toys, beds, furniture, utilities, rent, air filters, licenses, cleaning supplies. It is not cheap to keep this many cats safe and comfortable, but we do everything we can to make sure they are.”
The board game portion of the building is completely separated from the cat lounge, even featuring its own HVAC system, welcoming news for cat admirers who may be allergic.
For more information, or to make a reservation to hang out with one of the cats or to watch them while playing board games with friends, visit the Scratching Post’s website.