Last Updated on 17 February 2025 by Vanessa
When people think of cat cafés, their minds often wander to bustling metropolises like New York, Tokyo, or London, where these unique establishments have become part of the urban landscape. But nestled in the charming town of Newmarket, New Hampshire, is a feline-friendly destination that is proving that even smaller communities can embrace the magic of a cat café. Welcome to The Tipsy Tabby, New Hampshire’s very first cat café—a cozy and inviting spot where coffee lovers and cat enthusiasts can come together to enjoy the company of some adorable, adoptable kitties.
The Tipsy Tabby cat café in Newmarket – a unique addition to New Hampshire
New Hampshire has a population of under 1.4 million people, so it may not have been the most likely place to pioneer a cat café, especially given that the state also has one of the lowest percentages of dog ownership in the country (just 24%).
However, what it lacks in sheer numbers, it makes up for in a deep appreciation for feline companionship. The cat café has quickly become a beloved local hotspot, offering a warm and welcoming environment where visitors can sip a delicious beverage while interacting with rescue cats in need of a forever home.
The Tipsy Tabby is more than just a place to grab a cup of coffee. It is designed with two distinct areas to enhance the experience for both visitors and its furry residents.
The café space
The café area is open to the public during all business hours, allowing customers to come in, relax, and enjoy a selection of coffee, tea, and baked goods. For those looking for something a little extra, The Tipsy Tabby also offers a touch of liqueur, making it a truly unique experience. The café is designed to be a cozy, inviting space where visitors can watch the cats play through large glass windows, even if they’re not planning to enter the lounge.
The cat lounge
The cat lounge is where the real magic happens. This area is home to the café’s resident cats, all of whom are available for adoption through Cat Tales Rescue in Seabrook, New Hampshire.
Unlike the café space, the lounge requires an appointment to ensure a peaceful environment for the cats and guests alike. While walk-ins are welcome, it’s recommended to book in advance to secure a spot.
The cats have plenty of cozy nooks and climbing structures to explore, and they’re free to interact with visitors on their own terms—whether that means curling up in a lap or simply observing from a high perch.
Adoption and rescue: giving cats a second chance
One of the most rewarding aspects of The Tipsy Tabby is its commitment to animal rescue. Every cat in the lounge is available for adoption, each one spayed/neutered and fully vaccinated.
Partnering with Cat Tales Rescue, The Tipsy Tabby provides a stress-free, comfortable environment where potential adopters can truly get to know their future pets. Unlike traditional shelters, which can be overwhelming for some animals, the café setting allows cats to display their true personalities—whether playful, affectionate, or delightfully independent.
Adopting from The Tipsy Tabby is a heartwarming experience, as visitors can form bonds with the cats in a relaxed setting before making the commitment to bring them home. For those who may not be ready to adopt, simply spending time with the cats can be a therapeutic and joyful experience.
Meet the owner
The founder of The Tipsy Tabby is Kaitlyn, a dedicated animal lover with a background in veterinary dentistry. After working in Metro Atlanta, she decided to return home to New Hampshire to fulfill her dream of opening a cat café.
Kaitlyn’s goal was simple: to create a space that combined her love for coffee, tea, and, of course, cats. Her vision has come to life in The Tipsy Tabby, where every detail—from the carefully curated drinks to the well-designed cat spaces—reflects her passion for feline welfare and customer enjoyment.
What to expect when you visit
Upon arrival, you can enjoy a hot or cold beverage from the café (coffee, tea, hot chocolate, boba tea, etc.). They also have a selection of local baked goods, nut butter sandwiches, and noodles (served in adorable cat bowls).
You can watch the cats through the glass, or head into the lounge (with an appointment) for some quality cat time.
The cats in the lounge are free to do as they please—whether that means playing, snoozing in the sun, or seeking out affection from visitors.
It’s important to remember that every cat has a unique personality, and while some will be eager for attention, others may prefer to observe from a distance.
Practical information
Address
The Tipsy Tabby, 90 Main St, Newmarket, NH 03857, USA.
Opening hours
- Monday to Thursday: 10:00 am – 07:00 pm
- Friday and Saturday: 10:00 am – 08:00 pm
- Sunday: 10:00 am – 07:00 pm
- Closed on Mondays
Why visit a cat café?
Cat cafés are more than just trendy spots for Instagram-worthy moments; they offer real benefits for both humans and felines. Studies have shown that spending time with cats can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and even alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. For those who love cats but can’t have one at home due to allergies, lease restrictions, or other reasons, cat cafés provide the perfect opportunity to get some much-needed feline interaction.
For the cats, these cafés serve as a bridge between shelters and permanent homes. Many cats that struggle to thrive in traditional shelter environments flourish in the calm, homelike setting of a cat café, increasing their chances of being adopted by the right person.
Final thoughts on The Tipsy Tabby in Newmarket, New Hampshire
The Tipsy Tabby has proven that even a small town in New Hampshire can embrace the charm and benefits of a cat café. By offering a space where people can unwind with a delicious drink and some feline companionship, the café has created a unique, heartwarming experience for visitors. More importantly, it has given numerous rescue cats a second chance at finding their forever homes.
So, the next time you find yourself in Newmarket, New Hampshire, stop by and see what makes this little cat café so extraordinary—and you just might find a new furry friend to take home.
Want to see even more cats in New Hampshire?
Head to the Mount Washington Observatory in North Conway, where adorable feline “weather guardians” keep watch over the summit!
Want to visit even more cat cafés? Check out the ones in Maine, Vermont, and Massachusetts.
Today also starts the Countdown To Halloween. Expect lots of pumpkins and cemeteries on Traveling Cats from now on.
