Last Updated on 21 September 2025 by Vanessa
As the festive season approaches, the spirit of giving and kindness surrounds us. The Tiny Lions Lounge & Adoption Center in Ann Arbor is helping that spirit shine.
Part of the Humane Society of Huron Valley, this cat café works tirelessly to provide new homes for countless shelter cats.
In today’s article, we’ll explore the idea of adopting a homeless cat for Christmas and other meaningful ways to support these animals in need.
Tiny Lions will share insights into their efforts, and together, we’ll discover how YOU can make a difference this holiday season. Let’s come together to lend a helping hand to our furry companions.
Curious about other spots like Tiny Lions? Check out our full guide to cat cafés across Michigan.
Support rescue cats this Christmas with the Tiny Lions cat café in Ann Arbor
How it all started
“We started Tiny Lions Lounge & Adoption Center to save more lives,” says Wendy, the communications person at the Humane Society of Huron Valley.
“The cat café is not simply connected with a rescue. It’s owned and operated by our shelter, the Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV). We’re an award-winning no kill shelter that has its origins in humane education. Over 125 years ago, we started as a way to advocate for children and horses, and we’re continuing that at Tiny Lions.”
Cat adoption
There’s no obligation to adopt.
While all the cats and kittens at the cat café are adoptable, many people who, for some reason, cannot adopt a pet come to Tiny Lions to get their “cat fix.” Whenever you visit, you are sure to meet an ensemble of at least 10 to 20 cats, all waiting to be loved upon.
“We’re proud to say over 3,300 cats and kittens have found homes through our cat café since we opened mid-2016,” says Wendy. “It typically takes less than a week for a cat to find a loving home. It’s really heartwarming.”
“Our CEO/President, Tanya Hilgendorf, is always looking for innovative ways to save more feline lives,” says Wendy.
Tanya read a lot about cat cafés, which started in Taiwan and were starting to spring up around the US. She thought, “Why not in Ann Arbor?”
There are lots of different models for cat cafés. Ours is focused on adoption, because countless cats are homeless, and many throughout the country are killed. Hence the name Tiny Lions.
The name
“We had several ideas for a name,” Wendy says. “‘Tiny Lions’ was chosen to honor Cecil the Lion, who was tragically killed by a trophy hunter (and whose brother recently suffered the same fate). All cats—from the tiny to the large—need protection, appreciation, and love.”
Tiny Lions opened thanks to thousands of supporters who came forward to help their crowdfunding campaign.
By the way, did you know the deadliest place in the US for cats are shelters? “There’s a lot of cats killed across the country, unfortunately. Tiny Lions is part of the Million Cat Challenge that’s helping save more, though,” Wendy says.
Cat café events
Like so many other cat cafés around the world, Tiny Lions frequently organizes several fun events.
“Yoga with Cats is one of our most popular events,” Wendy says. “Of course, it’s also the one that’s been around since the start of the cat café.”
“We also have Tiny Tails Story Time, Cats and Kids, and Teen Mewvie Nights.”
“Funny thing about Cats and Kids—it started out as a movie night, too, but we could see the kids were much more interested in being out and about with the cats vs. sitting down for a movie. That’s why Cats and Kids was born.”
“In the past, we’ve also had Trivia Nights (including beer and wine), and we’re planning on bringing that back soon.”
Lots of these events will be happening in December for the holidays, too.
Check out the Tiny Lions website for all the events at HSHV and at TLC.
How can YOU contribute to increasing cat adoptions at the Tiny Lions cat café?
Simply sharing this article or any other type of information about Tiny Lions is a great start.
And if you can stop by and love on the cats, or join them at an event, that would be fantastic.
If you are unable to adopt or stop by but want to support the cats in any other way, you could also think about donating (link below). As they buy cat litter and food at a nonprofit discount and in bulk, monetary donations go the furthest for them. It also helps sick and injured cats get surgery and medical treatment.
More in Ann Arbor
If you’re thinking about visiting the Tiny Lions cat café but need that extra nudge, Ann Arbor has plenty to offer.
“Ann Arbor has the biggest football stadium in the world… and a top-rated public university,” Wendy says.
Not enough? Here are some top things to do in the area:
- Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum: Perfect for families, this interactive museum offers a variety of exhibits and activities, making learning a fun experience.
- Gallup Park: A park along the Huron River featuring walking trails, scenic views, and outdoor activities such as canoeing and picnicking.
- Kerrytown: A historic district known for its unique shops, local markets, and a variety of dining options, providing a charming and eclectic shopping experience.
- Matthaei Botanical Gardens: A botanical garden featuring indoor and outdoor displays of diverse plant life, including themed gardens and natural areas.
- Michigan Theater: Catch a film, live performance, or concert at the historic Michigan Theater, an architectural gem in downtown Ann Arbor.
- Nichols Arboretum: Explore the beautiful landscapes, gardens, and trails at Nichols Arboretum. It’s a serene retreat within the city.
- The Creature Conservancy: A wildlife sanctuary and educational facility where visitors can see and learn about rescued exotic animals.
Where to stay in Ann Arbor?
“There are all sorts of fantastic hotels here,” Wendy says. “The Graduate, Weber’s, Bell Tower Inn are definitely favorites with Ann Arbor flavor, but you can’t really go wrong wherever you stay!”
Practical information
Address
Tiny Lions Lounge & Adoption Center, 5245 Jackson Rd, Suite A1, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.
Operating hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 12:00 pm – 07:00 pm
- Wednesday: 12:00 pm – 07:00 pm
- Thursday: 12:00 pm – 07:00 pm
- Friday: 12:00 pm – 07:00 pm
- Saturday: 12:00 pm – 07:00 pm
- Sunday: 12:00 pm – 05:00 pm
Reservations
Reservations aren’t mandatory. However, they are recommended due to limited space.
Reserving is possible through the Tiny Lions website.
Entrance fee
There’s an entrance fee of $10 per hour (or $6 for a half-hour), which goes toward helping pay room and board and medical care for the kittens (not to mention rent for the space).
Adoptions
At Tiny Lions, the adoption fees cater to different age groups:
- $150 for kittens
- $115 for adult cats (ages five months to 12 years)
- $70 for senior cats (12+ years)
This comprehensive fee covers spay/neuter surgery, an initial health check, up-to-date vaccinations, microchip ID, a 30-day trial of pet illness and accident insurance, a discounted vet exam at the HSHV Veterinary clinic, and access to HSHV’s behavior help.
Adoptions operate on a “first come, first served” basis. If a cat has a pending application, you can still apply, but please be aware that the cat will likely be adopted by the first applicant.
Final thoughts
Do you resonate with the mission of Tiny Lions and the Humane Society of Huron Valley?
Why not spread the word and share this article with your friends and on social media. This simple action can contribute to finding even more loving homes for shelter cats.
Together, let’s embody the spirit of giving, where every paw makes a meaningful difference!
Have you ever adopted a cat from a shelter or a cat café like Tiny Lions? We’d love to hear your story. Share it in the comments below!
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One Response
Tiny adorable lions. I want them all.
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