Cat cafes have come under increased scrutiny in recent years, with animal rights groups criticizing some establishments for their allegedly shady practices and ethics.
The criticisms leveled at these cafes are by now well-known: Some people argue the animals shouldn’t have to “work” for their keep, while others claim the cats are used in a way that contradicts their daily activity routines, especially with regards to sleep patterns and the like.
However, cat cafe franchise Neco Republic is trying to improve this image by working directly with local cat shelters in Tokyo, Osaka and Gifu in its mission to help strays find a new home. For as long as this process takes, however, the animals receive care and protection in Neco Republic's cafe spaces.