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Atlanta’s only cat therapy lounge, (The Frisky Whisker/ Whisker Lounge), a healing sanctuary where 28 rescue cats brought comfort and healing to more than 31,000 visitors. Veterans with PTSD, anxious teens, isolated seniors, and grieving families all found peace and companionship surrounded by these incredible loving cats.
On July 24, 2025, the establishment was forced to abruptly close.
The City of Atlanta issued a Stop Work Order that abruptly forced them to close. An inspection took place without tenant representation, meaning no one from their team was present to explain operations or provide documentation of compliance. Even having a valid business license and proof of submitted documentation, the city required complete resubmission along with new signatures from landlord and a licensed engineer.
More than 17 weeks later, after an unjust eviction and mounting legal costs, they were forced to move out. With no visitors allowed for direct in-person donations since closure, the reserved funds have depleted. The devoted staff continue showing up every day to care for the cats without pay, but critical medical care has been postponed…
Needed treatment that has been postponed include:
- Echocardiograms for Moomoo (who has cerebellar hypoplasia, a heart murmur, and bladder stones), Korin, Pipi, and Gauda (all with heart murmurs)
- Extended blood work for Fibi (obesity)
- Dental cleanings for Betty, Cuddle, Feta, Fibi, Gauda, Gadget, Lila, Miriam, Pearl, Pebbles, Pipa, Pipi, Sydney, Techno, Wilma, and Zoe
- Upcoming annual exams and vaccinations for all 28 therapy cats
Atlanta has lost its only dedicated cat therapy haven, a safe space that offered free and low-cost mental health support through the proven benefits of animal companionship.
For years, The Frisky Whisker cats have healed thousands of people. Now these therapy cats desperately need the community to save them from the consequences of the landlord’s negligence. They even refused to let them host a fundraising event on their property 'Underground Atlanta' because they did not pay rent throughout the hardship.
Every single dollar donated goes directly to food, life-saving medicine, legal fees, staff support, and finding The Frisky Whisker’s therapy cats a new home.
Thank you so much for your consideration and compassion, for giving whatever you can, if able. At the very least for sharing this story far and wide. Your support truly means everything.
Co-organizers4
