Tiverton cat café to partially reopen after removal of cats

TIVERTON, R.I. (WLNE) — Bajah’s Cat Café will partially reopen today after 18 cats were removed by the Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RISPCA).

The RISPCA said that it responded to the café alongside the Tiverton Police Department, Tiverton Animal Control and officials from the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management to find over 20 cats, some of which showed signs of mild upper respiratory infection.

The Rhode Island Department of Health added that there were no health and safety issues found related to the food service environment of the café.

Some of the cats were being tested for the upper respiratory disease, as it can transfer to humans, but all of the cats were said to be well cared for, and had up-to-date veterinary records.

Owner Amanda Souza-Viera told ABC6 that she had been planning to turn the rear of the building into a rescue, but lacked the proper permits and approvals

The RISPCA told her she would need the proper permits and approvals to re-open as a rescue facility that accepts surrenders and processes adoption.

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management was also in the process of conducting an inspection of the site.

No animal cruelty charges were filed.

Souza-Viera kept two she of the cats she already owned, and returned two others to Forever Paws in Fall River.

Three of the surrendered cats were immediately adopted by pre-approved families, while the rest are currently being cared for at RISPCA’s Warwick facility.

On Dec. 18, the business wrote on Facebook that they had an “incredible conversation with RISPCA,” and the staff was thrilled about the “amazing things that were about to happen.”

“I can’t stress enough how much we value their dedication and the fantastic work they’ve been doing with our kitties,” the post stated.

“Working together rather than against each other is always the best approach, especially when it comes to what matters most: the cats. Stay tuned for updates—we can’t wait to share what’s coming next.” 

The business shared that the new hours were an “adjustment” period, and thanked their customers as they navigated the recent challenges. 

Hours up until the holidays will be temporary, and apply to the café section only until the cats return.

A GoFundMe, started by the managers of Bajah’s, has since raised over $13,000 for the rescue.