A new cat cafe at Mandai has opened with 28 resident cats you can cuddle and play with. Located along the walkway to Bird Paradise, NekoTown can be visited without purchasing a ticket to any of Mandai’s wildlife parks.
Despite its name, NekoTown is designed primarily for interacting with cats rather than having brunch or working over coffee. Food and drinks are not served inside the cat area, although every admission includes a complimentary drink or ice cream that visitors can collect after their session.
All the 28 cats has different personalities
According to NekoTown, its Ragdolls, Munchkins, British Shorthairs and other feline residents are friendly, gentle and accustomed to human company. However, that does not mean every cat will immediately volunteer for cuddles, as each has its own personality and boundaries.
Some cats may approach visitors on their own, while others might need more time to warm up. Toys are available for anyone hoping to tempt a less sociable resident into a game, but visitors should still let each cat decide how much attention it wants. If one walks away, there are another 27 potential friendships waiting in the room.
Images adapted from NekoTown Singapore
Sessions range from 30 minutes to 2 hours
Visitors can choose a 30 minute, one hour or two hour session. Regular admission is cheaper on weekdays, while weekend and public holiday sessions cost between S$16 and S$36 per person.
Prices apply to visitors aged two and above, with children and adults charged the same rate. Children below the age of two can enter free.
How to interact with cats
Let the cats control the interaction by crouching nearby and allowing them to approach, sniff or rub against your hand first. Relaxed eyes, neutral ears and an upright tail usually suggest that a cat is comfortable, while flattened ears, a flicking tail, crouching, hissing or growling mean it needs space.
If a cat comes closer, gently stroke its cheeks, head or upper back, but avoid its belly and never follow it when it moves away. Do not disturb cats that are sleeping, hiding or eating, and use the provided toys instead of your hands. Visitors should also follow the staff’s instructions and avoid picking up a cat unless permitted.
Images from NekoTown Singapore
What you should know before visiting
Children aged 12 and below must be accompanied and supervised by an adult, with each adult allowed to accompany up to three children. Parents should remind younger visitors to approach the cats gently and give them space when they retreat or hide.
Walk ins are welcome daily from 10am to 7pm, although reserving a session may be sensible on weekends, public holidays and during school breaks. Payment is made on site before entry, and visitors claiming the 10% discount should bring the relevant pass for verification.
NekoTown Visitor information
From Khatib MRT Station, visitors can take the Mandai Khatib Shuttle to Mandai Wildlife WEST. Public buses also stop near the Mandai Wildlife Reserve WEST drop off point.
After alighting, walk towards Bird Paradise and look for NekoTown along the walkway leading to the attraction. Drivers should park at the Mandai Wildlife WEST car park before following the same walkway towards Bird Paradise.
