Naimeh Maabad (53 years old) has achieved a unique feat by becoming the first woman in the Gaza Strip, and possibly in Palestine, to open a cat café. Naimeh has been fond of cats since her childhood and continued to care for them even after becoming a housewife. Her enduring passion inspired her to think creatively and step outside the norm, leading her to the idea of establishing this café. Named 'Meow Cat Cafe,' she inaugurated the café yesterday, Thursday.
Since its opening hours yesterday evening, the new café has not ceased to welcome visitors, especially cat enthusiasts. Some cat owners believe that their feline companions provide them with emotional comfort amid life's accumulating pressures, while others see their cats as loyal and understanding companions
Maabad explains that the idea of opening the café came with the support of her family and friends, driven by her lifelong passion for raising domestic cats. This passion persisted from her childhood through her teenage years, into her marriage and beyond, despite her responsibilities at home and within her family.
She revealed that she has never ceased caring for these cats in her home, where they have been a constant presence for over 9 years.
She emphasized that the café aims to attract visitors who adore these pets, allowing them to enjoy the company of cats. Many of these visitors are unable to keep cats in their own homes due to personal reasons.
Maabad describes her pampered cats as 'children that never grow up' to her.
The café managed by Maabad offers various beverages to visitors in a manner similar to other cafés. However, the presence of the domestic cats around the visitors creates a sense of tranquility. Visitors enjoy the company of the cats as they roam around the café.
The café owner maintains certain guidelines for visitors when interacting with the cats, such as wearing plastic covers on their shoes and washing their hands before petting the cats. These precautions are intended to uphold public health, she explains.
Initially, Maabad was considering making the café exclusive for young women and ladies due to concerns about potential criticism. However, as she promoted the idea on social media and received encouraging reactions from the community, she decided to keep the café open for both genders. She chose to defy the social and economic challenges faced by the people in the region," as she stated.
