By Claire Elliott,North Wales Live readers

Copyright dailypost

Wales’ only cat café is facing an uncertain future amid rising bills, dwindling footfall and a looming battle with council regulators. North Wales live readers are concerned for the future of their high streets.

The Little Gatito in Rhyl, Denbighshire, opened in late March, offering customers the chance to enjoy cakes and crepes in the company of up to 18 cats. It also acts as a “meet and greet” centre for rescued kittens looking for new homes.

While visitors praise the friendly felines and food, some have joked about their meals being “snatched” by curious paws. But behind the quirky concept, owner Nicole Revayova, from Dyserth, admits she is struggling to stay afloat.

Gas and electricity cost around £650 a month, even before rent and business rates are added. “In hindsight, it was always going to be tough in a town where the High Street is struggling and people are hit hard by the cost-of-living crisis,” she said.

The café was dealt a blow early on when inspectors handed it a one-out-of-five food hygiene rating, citing technical issues that have since been resolved. Now, Nicole faces another potential hurdle: Denbighshire Council is insisting she obtains a performing animal licence.

“It’s ridiculous, we are not a circus!” she said. “I’ve spoken to other cat cafés in Liverpool and Nottingham and they don’t need licences. Only in Wales are they needed.”

Under the Performing Animals (Regulation) Act 1925, anyone who “exhibits, uses or trains performing animals” must be registered, with police and council officers able to inspect premises.

The dispute comes as loyal customers rally behind Nicole, praising her for creating something unique. One supporter said she was “very brave” to launch the venture in Rhyl, while others urged locals to back it before it is lost.

Cat cafés first took off in Taiwan before becoming a global trend, boosted by Instagram-friendly experiences. In the UK, there are now at least 32 licensed cat cafés in England alone, with entry fees typically around £10 to cover costs. Nicole has already been forced to increase prices, with all visits pre-booked to limit waste. But without wider recognition and support, she fears the café’s days may be numbered.

“Many people say they would love to come once they realise we’re here,” she said. “But unless that turns into regular visits, we won’t survive.”

Commenter Banne says “Pay £10 to go in, purchase your meal and then fight off the cats!? The fact that she is struggling to attract customers really shouldn’t come as a shock to be honest. She readily admits you have to protect your food, especially from a couple of the cats!”

Rhiannon Williams agrees: “I couldn’t imagine going to a cafe where cats are everywhere. Don’t get me wrong I love cats and dogs but not where you go for a meal.”

Haroc complains: “I wouldn’t enjoy entering someone’s home with so many cats around, let alone pay an entry fee and again to eat food that’s been prepared there. How has she increased her hygiene score from one, with the cats having full reign throughout the cafe? I find this new initiative of dog or cat friendly dining venues extremely off putting, with the exception of working dogs, I would never dine in any!”

DP reader writes: “The first time I went to a cat café was in Nottingham, they also provided cloches to keep the food safe. But people don’t go to a cat café for the food really, they go for the cats. And it sounds like the cats are definitely not performing animals, like, has anyone tried to train a cat?”

Farmernotpharma replies: “The cats are the theme, they are there as part of the business, they are performing – training or no training.”

Bushpiggy grumbles: “Typical DCC, always putting up every hurdle they can. Obviously they want another empty shop in an already dying town!”

Silver42 agrees: “Denbighshire County Council – these cats are NOT performing animals, therefore your rule regarding licensing does NOT apply.”

MickHookem points out: “Somebody opened a cat cafe a few years ago on Bodfor Street that had to close down because they didn’t have the correct licences so this was entirely predictable. It shows the importance of doing your homework and due diligence before opening a business.”

Captcheese jokes: “I’m going to open a badger cafe. They’ll keep you on your toes!”

Would you be sad to see the cat cafe close? Do you think the council should be doing more to encourage new businesses to stay afloat? Have your say in our comments section.