River Kitty Cafe owner gives update on how the business is going

PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) — It’s been a busy time at the River Kitty Cafe in Peoria, and owner Holly Walker shared how things are going nearly two months after opening.

The business opened on March 9, and Walker said that 18 cats have already been adopted. The cats come from Peoria County Animal Protection Services (PCAPS), and Walker said it opens up some spots that the shelter wouldn’t have otherwise.

She said it offers people an alternative way to adopt an animal.

“They’re able to see how they’re interacting with other cats, how they would interact with children,” Walker said. “They’re not in cages or things like that, other places that have adoption events the cats are in cages and they’re kind of scared.”

She added that they like to keep the coffee local, mentioning that their espresso is from Intuition in downtown Peoria.

People can rent the cat room for a small fee, while enjoying their coffee or tea. The cafe is open from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends.

The cafe is not affiliated with the River Kitty Cat Cafe in Evansville, IN.