This Cat Café In Ukraine Is Surprisingly Still Open Despite The Ongoing War

The owner of the establishment says he'll never leave the country.

May

• Published in Animal Stories
• March 6, 2022

As we tread into today's world, we can't help but feel confused and uncertain. As countries struggle to fight the effects of the pandemic, the worsening war between Ukraine and Russia gets added into the mix.

We see the battles unfold on TV and our devices and we can't help but worry for the safety of the Ukrainians. Millions have fled to other countries hoping to seek a temporary place to stay and a lot of them took their pets with them.

But some would rather stay in their country and do business as usual. One particular establishment is this cat café in Lviv, which has 20 felines.

Cat Café Lviv owner Serhii Oliinyk opened his business more than six years ago. He has a small, close-knit team that has been working for him for years and with whom he became close.

Since the employees constantly care for and play with the cats (whenever the guests are few), the felines have become used to them. The café serves as a haven for taking a bite while enjoying the company of cats.

The place has a variety of cats—from fluffy to hairless, and small to big ones. Despite the ongoing war nearby, the place is truly heaven on Earth if you love the company of playful felines.

Cat Café Lviv has been bringing joy to cat loves for over six years.

This is Serhii Oliinyk, the owner. He owns the café where 20 felines reside.

People can chill around with cats as they enjoy their coffee and dessert.

Looks like the cats are waiting for a moment to snatch some grub.

The café is open to serve people even in the middle of the war between Ukraine and Russia.

The war has closed down businesses and has caused millions of Ukrainians to seek refuge in other countries, but Serhii, together with his family, decided that it's business as usual.

In such challenging times, the most practical option is to leave. But the family thinks it's the opposite because they're concerned for the welfare of the 20 cats.

It's a haven for locals and travelers who love hanging out with cats.

The café continues to be a safe spot for migrants and people who need hot meals and place full of warmth and positivity.

The owner prepared a space in the basement so whenever there's an air raid warning, people and the cats can take shelter. He welcomes everyone into his café.

The people of Ukraine are so brave in the face of adversity. Even the cats are brave!

Children enjoying the company of cats in the café

Oliinyk considers these cats part of his family.

That's why he prefers to stay with them in the country. You can't help but admire him, his family, and his employees because they remain fearless for the survival of these adorable felines.

The owner apologizes for the lack of updates on their Facebook page as it is truly a dangerous time.

They are open for donations via their PayPal account, as mentioned in their update on social media. Half of the donations will go to their army.

Even that cats are hanging in there.

We hope and pray for the safety of Oliinyk, his family and team, and the cats they care for.

Users are sending their love and support though the comments of the café's social media page.

Others are admiring the bravery and dedication of the team behind the establishment

The war has been going on for more than a week and counting, and we don't know what could happen next.

We hope that the family that owns the business, the employees, the customers they serve, and the lovely cats will withstand all the current challenges. A lot of people are looking forward to a brighter future and visit the café during peaceful days.

May