The Buzz ON THE BAY

By Belinda Jones

Of course the real wonder is that 220 cats have been adopted since Bajah’s opened on Tiverton’s Main Street just over a year ago, thanks to founder Amanda Souza. “I was suffering with anxiety in my accountancy job, so my husband encouraged me to go all in on my passion. Cats have always offered me great comfort, and I saw the cafe as a way of sharing this, as well as finding homes for rescue cats.”

Souza works closely with Forever Paws Animal Shelter and now up to 15 felines live in harmony at Bajah’s Villas (AKA the cat room). “I was drawn to the large windows of this space – the cats love to watch the world and sunbathe in the mornings,” Souza shares.

Patrons who wish to enjoy a flu y cuddle must make a reservation, while others come with the intention of adopting, as with residents Yin and Yang. Souza herself took in the first two rescues (bonded elderly siblings) and now has eight cats at home.

She still misses her beloved Bajah (after whom the cafe is named) but has found a gift for matchmaking humans and felines, and humans and humans for that matter.

“We’ve had several couples form while playing Exploding Kittens (a card game) on Single’s Game Night!” she says with a laugh. “But what makes me happiest is the photo updates of our cats in their new homes. That is the best feeling!”

Meet adoptable kitties and other cat-loving humans by signing up for monthly programming like Meditation with Cats, a book club, and other fun events. Find the full schedule online at BajahsCatCafe.com

Every meal purchased earns a free dessert and a raffle ticket for great prizes, like…

• A Newport Getaway Package

• $350 cash

• And more!

APRIL 1-30

Dine in, Dine out, or Take out, have your ticket validated at each participating restaurant, hand in your book to Chamber office by May 12 to be entered into drawings.