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Animals draw the interest of many, especially the furry and adorable – so it’s a no wonder that animal cafes are drawing such crowds all over the world.

However, ethics are often called into question. As an animal lover myself, I’m often torn between the desire to experience these animals up close – and my moral compass.

On one hand, it allows people a chance to interact with wild animals, but on the other, keeping wild animals happy is very hard.

In an ideal world, animals should be left wild and free but we would like to share these animal cafes and hopefully, start a meaningful conversation about them, such as how we can change animal tourism for the better.

Read more:

33 Charming new unique cafes and restaurants in Bangkok that are must-visits!

Forget unicorns: check out Mermaid Island Cafe in Bangkok where you can bask in rainbows, sparkles and magic!

9 Cuddly reasons to visit Big Dog Cafe Bangkok: Meet rare huge doggies like Chow Chow, Alaskan Malamute and more!

Editor’s Note:

TripCanvas is strongly against animal cruelty, and we hope to bring awareness to the ethical concerns of animal welfare in establishments such as animal cafes.

Animal cafes are businesses that attract animal lovers, and we strongly urge everyone to treat these animals gently – and make sure that they are handled with love and care.

If you have seen signs that the animals are not being well taken care of, please highlight it to us immediately.

If the animals are uncomfortable with you, please do not force them to take pictures with you. Please also do not feed animals food that might not be part of their natural diet.

We urge you to write to us if you see anything that makes you uncomfortable – we will do our best to report the truth, and fight for their rights together.

1. From meerkats to corgis, it’s a wonderland of animals – Little Zoo Cafe

The owner of the cafe and animals has been fascinated with animals from a young age – and she started her personal menagerie in high school – her pets are what you will see here.

Photo Via Jelynchia, Stupidlunatic, Iscarlettt

Quite possibly the only place in town with meerkats – which are quite inquisitive and might poke holes in your shirt, or steal your belongings (they like shiny things).

Photo Via Mike_taninrat, Stswx

Aside from their stars, there are also racoons, fennec foxes, arctic foxes and common household pets: cockatiels, bunnies and corgis!

Photo Via F3rddd, Chaya.z

The decor is pretty simple and rustic, and there are ample basics on the menu from colourful drinks to desserts and bites.

Photo Via Coloursister, Sarah.nyy_

Note: If you manage to go down for a visit, do let us know if you see any animals in distress, or if the animals look like they’re not being treated well. We’d like to hear about your experience there.

Little Zoo Cafe

Price: From 290 Baht / USD $9 (Based on minimum order of a drink + main)
Address::424/7 Siam square, Rama I Rd, Khwaeng Pathum Wan, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330. Coordinate here
Getting there: From Siam BTS, walk 6 mins to the cafe
Contact: +66924481116
Opening hours: Daily, 10:30AM to 7PM

Website


 2. These three racoons will keep your hands and hearts full – Pooltime Cafe

Raccoons are seen as pests overseas, but nobody can deny that they are incredibly cheeky and funny.

Probably one of the reasons why they are sometimes kept as pets. For example, the Instagram-famous Pumpkin the Raccoon!

Photo Via Udontnome9

The three ‘mask-eteers’ are as mischievous as they look, so make sure you keep your food away from them – and put your jewelries away for safekeeping.

Photo Via Marcus0038, Coonx3

They are only in the playroom a few hours a day and spends most of their time resting in their private room.

We spoke with the owner of the 3 raccoons of Pooltime Cafe, and saw how much the raccoons adore him and vice versa!

Photo Via Saori.vvv_

Don’t be too bummed if you catch them at a bad time, because the pool-inspired design of the cafe makes it pretty insta-worthy. Plus, it is comforting to know that their happiness matters 🙂

Photo Via Cheerlam_, Biozenbon, Kineveryfae

Pooltime Cafe

Price: From 80 Baht / USD $2.5 (for a drink)
Address: 582 Soi Sukhumvit 63 Road, Between Soi Ekamai 26,28 (Taiping Tower), Wattana, Bangkok, 10110, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Getting there: From Thong Lo BTS, take a 14 min ride to the cafe
Contact: +66 90 652 4109
Opening hours: Sun, Tues – Thurs from 1PM to 8PM; Fri and Sat from 1PM to 12AM (Closed on Mondays)

Website

3. It’s a doggie dog heaven with manners on the side  – Dog In Town

A relaxed cafe with plenty of pedigrees running around, and it’s a good thing that dogs are domesticated animals.

Photo Via Alineshashel

This means that they are more comfortable living and interacting with humans.

The best part of Dog In Town is how the staff take the time to brief children on how to act with the dogs, which are well trained. They have a few rules in place to assure that the dogs are treated well and with respect, earning them lots of praise for their service and treatment.

Photo Via Jandz_ps, Eyetayungmaitaii

So what kind of dogs do they have? Huskies, and other big dogs, as well as Schnauzers.

Photo Via Pattopt, Bluebellszz

While you can’t share the food off the human menu with the dogs, visitors have praised their taro burger!

Photo Via Tukta_shop89, Pp_pruedsamon

Dog In Town

Admission: From 250 Baht / USD $8 (Unless you order something – there is no mininum order; their cheapest beverage is 95 Baht)
Address: 16/1, เอกมัย 6, Khlong Tan Nuea, Khet Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Getting there: From Ekkamai BTS station, walk 14 mins to the cafe
Contact: +66 61 659 4545
Opening hours: Sun – Thurs 11AM to 8PM; Fri & Sat 11AM to 9PM (Closed every third Thursday of the month)

Website

4. Cuddle cute fennec foxes, chinchillas and marvel at a caracal  – The Animal Cafe

This cafe isn’t too out of the way, and it has tons of animals. There is a Harry Potter themed set-up on the ground floor so visitors can take a magical photo with the owls.

Photo Via Plloylim

However, please be discreet and refrain from using flash as they’ve got really sensitive eyes. And if they seem uncomfortable, do not force them to take a selfie with you.

Photo Via Atta_warangchat, Issareeging

Once you enter the second floor, you’ll be greeted by free roaming kitties. But you’ll be too distracted by the caracal and serval, and other animals waiting for you in the other room.

Photo Via Kuisee23, Nanphichcha

There’s the super adorable fennec fox, caracal and a majestic serval that looks like a mini cheetah. Personally though, I’m in love with their silver scottish fold cat.

Photo Via Jik_jik, Bellejira

A note on some of these animals – fennec foxes and caracals are getting domesticated in other countries – similar to the domesticated pet fennec fox and caracal at Little Zoo Cafe.

Now, you might come across some raccoons pacing back and forth in their cages. It’s a stereotypic behavior that usually comes from captivity (and is often seen in animals at the zoo).*

Photo Via Pooomy, Waythegentle

Note: If you see animal abuse, or instances like the above where animals show signs of distress, please shoot us a message and we’ll help to bring awareness to the issue. If you know of an organisation that could help, it’ll be highly welcome too.

*We wish to bring awareness about this behaviour, and seek your help in sharing with us which organisations in Thailand we can reach out to to deal with this effectively. Many of these cafe owners have very limited capacity to discuss these issues in English, so locally based organisations would be more effective in reaching out to these owners.

The Animal Cafe

Admission: From 200 Baht / USD $6 (Unless you get a drink + dessert/main)
Address: Sathu Pradit 19 Alley, Khwaeng Chong Nonsi, Khet Yan Nawa, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10120, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Getting there: From BRT Wat Dorkmai Station, take an 8 min ride to the cafe
Contact: +0969900207
Opening hours: Daily, 11AM to 10PM

Website

5. Watch out! The rabbits and guinea pigs are left to free roam in – Rabbito Cafe

We love that this cafe focuses only on animals that have been domesticated, like rabbits and guinea pigs.

Photo Via Bouquet_lulla

Natural sunlight is filtered into the cafe nicely, giving you great lighting for selfies with the sweet bunnies and cute guinea pigs. Some of them are kept separated from the rest, but you can enter the hutch and make friends with them.

Photo Via Cake_kasawan, Mayakellyglebova

They are quite tame and welcoming, a testament to how well cared for they are. The staff shower them with love and gently guide visitors to do the same.

How adorable!

Photo Via Mayakellyglebova, Purinto

While they are litter-trained, there’s bound to be accidents.. So you might want to watch where you step.

Photo Via Hanzohanzo333, Eatverest, Mimind_malinee

Note: As the owner of a pet rabbit myself, I know first-hand how easily frightened and jumpy they can get. Do be careful to move slowly and read their behaviour before approaching them.

Rabbito Cafe

Admission: From 100 Baht / USD $3 (Minimum spend)
Address: 29-29/1 ซอย สุขุมวิท 101/1 ถนน สุขุมวิท 101/1 โครง ดิ เอ ฟ เวอร์ รี่ บางจาก พระโขนง Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10260, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Getting there: From Punnawithi or Udom Suk BTS station, walk 8 mins to the cafe
Contact: +66 61 632 2365
Opening hours: Tues – Sun, 12PM to 7PM (Closed on Mondays)

Website

6. Pretend you’re catwoman or a crazy cat lady only at  – Caturday

Kitties are all pretty aloof, as any cat lover can attest to.

Photo Via _primeeio

They won’t give you attention if they aren’t in the mood, and aside from the rules that stop people from picking them up – there are nooks and crannies for them to escape from overeager visitors.

Photo Via Sp_saitong, Euzen_lee_yi_xuan_

On top of that, there’s even a private room that mere mortals are not allowed to enter. Bonus points for prioritising the happiness of their felines!’

Photo Via Mnask.y

But here are two tips to encourage interaction: sit on the floor or cheat with catnip. Also, it gets pretty crowded on Saturdays, so 2 to 4pm on a weekday would be the ideal time to visit.

Photo Via Sananthachat

Depending on how feisty (I have quite a feisty little cat at home) or chill the cat is, slow down when approaching them.

Photo Via Nongwon-3

Use toys to encourage them to play with you, and slowly get them to warm up to you.

Photo Via _ukkuko, Iam_kookkaii, Dayana382, Fonnoffy

PS: One eye opener is how many stray cats are ignored right outside the cafe, while everyone coos over the purebreds inside. 🙁

Caturday

Admission: From 150 Baht / USD $4.80
Address: 10400, 115 Phayathai Rd, Khwaeng Thanon Phetchaburi, Khet Ratchathewi, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10400, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Getting there: Take exit 2 at Rachathewi BTS Station and walk for 4 minutes
Contact: +66 2 656 5247
Opening hours: Tues – Sun 12PM to 9PM (Closed on Mondays)

Website

7. Meet a gentle giant at this pastel pet cafe  – Petaholic Cafe

You might see very few st. bernards in your lifetime, and they are probably one of the most iconic dogs around. From Beethoven to saviors wearing a barrel of brandy around their necks.

The big plus? Being between the airport and the city, it’s usually visited by locals and doesn’t get as crowded.

This means that you can have as much time as you want with popular favourites: the corgis and huskies.

Photo Via Meanapt

Plus! The cafe features a soft color scheme that would look beautiful on any insta-feed.

Photo Via Aummiizn_n
Photo Via Foneach

Petaholic Cafe

Admission: From 150 Baht / USD $4.80
Address: 12 Chaeng Wattana-Parkkred 33, Tambon Khlong Klua, Amphoe Pak Kret, Chang Wat Nonthaburi 11120, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Getting there: Half an hour from Don Mueang International Airport
Contact: +66 85 596 2693
Opening hours: Tues – Sun 10AM to 9PM (Closed on Monday)

Website

8. This pack comes with a beagle, corgis, goldens and more – HoPs Dog Cafe

A rather cramped cafe with about seven dogs running around at any given time.

Maybe it’s got to do with the overweight doggos. They might look super cute, but is as unhealthy for them as it is for us.

Photo Via Mmeowritz
Photo Via Momojubmeng

Aside from the fact that there are no quiet zones for the dogs to escape when they need to, visitors are encouraged to purchase treats to feed the dogs which has made them rather spoilt.

Photo Via Goi_wanwipa, Methajoy
Photo Via Gyvt

So, unless you’re really lucky, you won’t get a single whiff your way without something tasty to offer.

Photo Via Khaloodi123, So_glam_by_nan, Dayana382

HoPs Dog Cafe

Admission: From 150 Baht / USD $3 (Inclusive of a drink and two hours)
Address: Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Getting there: From Siam BTS station, walk 6 mins to the cafe
Contact: +66 89 896 8690
Opening hours: Tues – Sun 11AM to 9PM (Closed on Mondays)

Website

9. One of the most popular dog cafes around town with large breeds – Big Dog Cafe

Who can resist all the breeds that populate this cafe?

There’s the wolf-like malamute and his malamute buddies; a tibetan mastiff that looks like a bear but is actually a big softie.. There’s also the funny looking sheepdog, chow chow and afghan, to name a few.

Photo Via Rjiraphats
Photo Via Papdeawss, TripCanvas

Because the dogs need a rest from all the attention and because they need to sterilise the cafe every two hours, there are specific time allocations for play:

Round 1: 9.30am to 11.30am
Round 2: 12pm to 2pm
Round 3: 2.30pm to 4.30pm
Round 4: 5pm to 7pm
Round 5: 7.30pm to 9.30pm

Photo Via Porsche_corgi
Photo Via Paipaiz

Make sure you make a reservation or you’re sure to be disappointed!

Photo Via Sellyng, Gracekanklao, Germaine.tan_
Photo Via Maribellebelle, Iamfiona_t

Big Dog Cafe

Admission: From 199 Baht / USD $6
Address: 88 Ratchadaphisek Rd, Huai Khwang, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10310, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Getting there: Right outside theThailand Cultural Centre Metro station
Contact: 095-259-2392,094-129-8666,092-361-8457,096-961-8277 / Line users can make reservations with @bigdogcafe (Do be sure to make a reservation in advance!)
Opening hours: 9am to 10pm

Website

10. Now for the one that started it all with huskies – True Love @ Neverland Siberians

Yes, it is hard on huskies to live in warm climates with their thick coats suited for the cold, but that hasn’t stopped them from becoming popular in Asia.

It must be due to their gorgeous faces and wolfy demeanor. But they have officially stolen our tropical hearts.

Every effort is taken to make their lives easier, they are kept in air conditioned rooms and there is a system in place so that they do not overexert. They are only let out twice a day to socialise with guests at:

12pm – playtime from 1-2pm (1st session)
3pm – playtime from 4-5pm (2nd session)

FYI, the ticket counter opens at 10am and is opened till all tickets are sold out. No booking, reservation or online reservations available.

PS: Children under 15 are strictly not allowed inside the cafe. The cafe also no longer serves food (main entree). Your ticket still comes with a standard drink and cake.

True Love @ Neverland Siberians

Admission: From 500 Baht / USD $16
Address: 153 Paholyothin Soi Ari Samphan 2, Bangkok, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Getting there: From Ari BTS station, take exit 1 or 3 and walk for 20 minutes or take a 7 min ride to the cafe. (Tuktuks from Ari BTS station costs 50 Baht per ride.)
Contact: +66 90 101 9669
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 12pm to 5pm (Closed on Sundays)

Website

Special mention: Home to the masterchef of dogs – Coffee & Puppy

A little bit further away, but perfect for those who want to learn how to cook for men’s best friend: doggos!

Photo Via Thanasut.v, Nongmeenn

Visitors are encouraged to bring their own furbabies and also advised to make a booking a day or a few hours in advance to assure a spot.

Photo Via Nongmeenn, Primarykear

Aside from two pomeranians that belong to the owner, all other doggies came with their humans. This means that you’ll see different breeds on every visit.

Photo Via Jirakittploy

For those who prefer to puppy-watch and have good food, this is definitely not to be missed.

Photo Via Janoxaparin17, Beebie_bew

Coffee & Puppy

Admission: Free, mains start from 180 Baht / USD $6
Address: Chaeng Watthana Rd, Khwaeng Thung Song Hong, Khet Lak Si, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10210, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Getting there: From Lak Si Railway Station, take an 18 min ride to the restaurant
Contact: +66 2 982 6519
Opening hours: Wed – Sun, 11:30AM to 10:30PM (Closed on Mon and Tues)

Website

At the end of the day, animals are cute but they are not meant to be cuddled – unless you’re dealing with domesticated species like dogs, cats, rabbits, etc.

Imagine if a dog sniffed your butt, you’d most likely feel awkward and uncomfortable. If a bear were to bite you in play, you’d end up in the hospital.

While animal cafes and zoos are the closest we can get to different types of creatures, it might not necessarily be the best thing for these wild creatures. Some might argue that if a creature is meant to be in the wild, they should be left in the wild – while others might argue that sometimes these creatures have a better chance of survival in captivity due to decreasing habitats, harsh climates and more.

What is your stand on this?

If you’ve got anything to add, feel free to sound off in the comments!

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PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you!
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