Our story
Catlands is a place to slow down, get comfortable, and spend some time with really wonderful cats. Our cats come to us from Homeward Trails Animal Rescue, where they await their next chapter, hopefully one that ends with a favorite sunny spot, a very full food bowl, and a family of their own.
In a shelter, cats may spend much of their time in an enclosure, making it harder to see the little things that make each one special.
At Catlands, our cats free roam. Always. No cages. They can climb, play, stretch out in a sunny spot, curl up somewhere cozy, or simply walk away when they’ve had enough attention. They get to choose where they go and how they spend their time. And that means you get to meet them as they really are. Because sometimes the best connections happen when a cat gets to make the first move.
The room
Height, cozy hideaways, and plenty of room to play. Catlands is designed to let cats be cats, whether that means chasing a wand toy, batting around a ball, climbing up high, curling up beside you, or settling in for a nap.
Guests are encouraged to play, interact, and make friends, with plenty of toys around the lounge to help get things started. And when a cat decides it’s time for a little break, there are cozy perches and quiet spots where they can retreat and be left unbothered.
Sessions are capped and timed to keep the room relaxed, comfortable, and fun for the cats and the people who came to see them.
The cats
Our residents come to us through Homeward Trails Animal Rescue, and they stay with us until they find their people. Every cat you meet at Catlands is looking for a home, and if one chooses you, just let a staff member know and we’ll help you take the next step.
When one cat heads home, another gets their chance to join us. The residents page is always updated with the cats currently calling Catlands home.
Snacks & drinks
Your visit to Catlands also includes a little something for you, too. Choose a drink from the fridge and a treat from our snack shelf; both are included with your ticket.
Nothing fancy. Just a little extra hospitality to make your time with the cats feel even more like a break from the real world.
Meet the founder
Founder of Catlands, Kentlands resident, mom of two boys, and lifelong animal lover.
Growing up, animals were always a big part of my life. I was fortunate enough to grow up in a home filled with cats and dogs, including six cats who were part of my life from childhood well into adulthood. That love and appreciation for animals has stayed with me ever since.
As a local small business owner, I’ve always loved the idea of creating something meaningful within my own community. When the idea for Catlands began taking shape, I saw an opportunity to bring together two things I’m passionate about: animals and creating beautiful, welcoming spaces that people genuinely enjoy spending time in.
My vision was to create something different from a traditional animal shelter or cat café. I wanted Catlands to feel warm, inviting, and thoughtfully designed: a place where rescue cats could live comfortably, show off their personalities, and connect naturally with people who might become their forever families.
Through our partnership with Homeward Trails Animal Rescue, we’re helping give rescue cats greater visibility and more opportunities to find loving homes.
And while the cats are undoubtedly the stars of the show, I wanted Catlands to be a special place for people, too. Somewhere families, friends, neighbors, and fellow animal lovers can slow down, connect, and enjoy a truly unique experience.
I’m so excited to bring Catlands to the community my family and I call home, and I hope it becomes a place that brings a little more joy into people’s lives while making a meaningful difference for the cats who need us.
With love, Shannon
Founder, Catlands
A few simple rules.
01
Our cats are always in charge of their own space. We ask that you let them come to you, keep all four paws on the ground, and let sleeping cats enjoy their naps. If a cat wanders off or heads to one of their cozy spots, it just means they’re ready for a little break.
There are plenty of cats to meet, play with, and make friends with, so follow their lead, grab a toy, and see who chooses you.
02
We keep our sessions small and the atmosphere easygoing so everyone can settle in, cats and people included. Keep voices at a comfortable level, skip the flash when taking photos, and let the room move at a cat-friendly pace.
The calmer the space, the more comfortable our cats feel being themselves: playing, exploring, snoozing, and hopefully making a few new friends along the way.
03
Some guests come hoping to meet their future cat. Others just really love spending time with them. Both are welcome here.
At the heart of Catlands is helping our cats from Homeward Trails Animal Rescue be seen, loved, and ultimately find homes of their own. Every visit gives them another chance to meet someone new, and sometimes that someone becomes family.
Book an hour, sit down, and let the room do the rest. If one of them decides you are the one, we will take it from there.