Looking for a yoga class that stretches your body and warms your heart? Enter cat yoga—the purr-fect fusion of mindfulness and feline charm that’s captivating yoga lovers across the United States. This playful trend brings together two soothing forces: the physical and mental benefits of yoga, and the therapeutic presence of cats. Whether you’re mastering downward dog or just pausing for a gentle head nudge from a curious kitty, cat yoga offers a refreshing twist on the traditional studio experience.
The concept has gained traction in recent years, with cat cafes, animal shelters, and yoga studios teaming up to offer unique sessions that aren’t just fun—they’re often for a good cause. Many of these classes feature adoptable cats, turning your vinyasa flow into a potential forever home connection. It’s no surprise that this feel-good movement has started to root itself in communities coast to coast, creating dedicated cat-yoga hubs and cultivating a growing fanbase of feline-loving yogis.
From San Francisco to Minneapolis, cities across the country are embracing the cat yoga craze and giving it their own local flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi, a devoted cat parent, or someone curious to try something new, these seven U.S. cities have become hotspots for stretching, purring, and posing together. Let’s take a look at where cat yoga has truly taken over—and why these places should be on your mat-and-meow bucket list.
1. New York City, New York
In the city that never sleeps, even yoga classes come with a side of feline flair. Yoga With Cats NYC takes full advantage of the city’s appetite for novelty and community-centered experiences. Classes are held in vibrant studio spaces and sometimes even in pop-up cat cafes or rescue centers across the boroughs. Participants often find themselves giggling mid-stretch as a curious tabby investigates their downward dog. Beyond being Instagrammable, these events often support local shelters through donations and foster awareness. Every session feels like a mini urban retreat, a rare chance to slow down in the chaos of Manhattan. And for some, it’s the place they meet their new best furry friend.
2. Charlotte, North Carolina
Not every yoga class comes with purring participants—but in Charlotte, it’s becoming the norm. Hosted by the Humane Society of Charlotte, these sessions are not only delightful but impactful. Each class doubles as an adoption opportunity, as attendees can get to know shelter cats in a relaxed, non-caged setting. Volunteers share stories about the cats while instructors guide guests through gentle poses. The result is a warm, community-driven environment that benefits both people and pets. Charlotte’s growing wellness scene has embraced the concept wholeheartedly. And as the classes often sell out, it’s clear the demand for cat-accompanied calm is only rising.
3. San Francisco, California
Nestled in the heart of the Bay Area, San Francisco is home to KitTea Cafe, one of the pioneering spaces for cat yoga in the country. Unlike traditional studios, this venue offers a serene tea bar connected to a cozy cat lounge where yoga classes take place. The atmosphere is intimate, with a cap on class sizes to keep the experience tranquil for both humans and felines. Yogis stretch and breathe as adoptable cats freely roam, curl up on mats, or occasionally climb onto backs mid-pose. What sets this experience apart is the dual benefit: personal relaxation and potential pet adoption. Sessions are led by certified instructors attuned to the dynamic nature of working with animals. It’s no wonder this quirky blend of wellness and whimsy has become a San Francisco staple.
4. Oakland, California
Tucked away in a sunlit space, Cat Town Cafe in Oakland offers a deeply calming experience called “Calm Cats & Yoga Mats.” It’s not just yoga—it’s part meditation, part social hour, and part feline therapy. The studio merges seamlessly into a cat lounge where adoptable cats live and play. Soft music and ambient lighting complement the peaceful presence of cats who nap, stretch, and occasionally join the flow. Cat Town’s mission-driven approach means every class directly supports rescue efforts. Oakland residents have embraced this blend of wellness and advocacy with enthusiasm. The classes fill quickly, and repeat visitors are common—some even come more for the cats than the poses.
5. Houston, Texas
Deep in the heart of Texas, El Gato Coffeehouse has put Houston on the map for cat yoga lovers. This charming cat cafe doesn’t just serve coffee—it also offers yoga sessions surrounded by playful, adoptable felines. Classes are typically held on weekends and attract a diverse crowd, from college students to retirees. The vibe is laid-back and inclusive, perfect for beginners or anyone seeking a more joyful, less serious yoga experience. Many attendees end up becoming regulars, drawn by both the caffeine and the calming cat company. All proceeds from yoga classes support local rescue efforts, making it a feel-good activity in more ways than one. El Gato’s motto says it all: stretch, sip, purr.
6. Los Angeles, California
Hollywood may be known for its stars, but in some yoga studios, the real celebrities are kittens. Laughing Frog Yoga in Los Angeles partners with local rescues to host “Kitten Yoga” events that are as adorable as they are restorative. These classes are often accompanied by upbeat playlists and playful energy, thanks to the young cats darting across mats. Yogis can expect to pause poses to giggle, cuddle, or gently move a kitten who’s made themselves at home on their legs. Each event supports adoption efforts and frequently results in successful matches. The LA wellness crowd has embraced the trend as both a workout and a dose of animal therapy. In a city fueled by trends, cat yoga has proven it’s not just a passing fad.
7. Minneapolis, Minnesota
Snowy winters and long indoor seasons make The Cafe Meow a cherished oasis in Minneapolis. This hybrid coffee shop and cat lounge also hosts yoga sessions that invite guests to flow through their practice alongside adoptable cats. The space is cozy, with large windows that flood the room with natural light and plenty of cozy corners for cats to perch or nap. Yoga here feels especially grounding, thanks to the slower pace and calm environment. Visitors often say the cats enhance their mindfulness, helping them stay present and centered. The Cafe Meow regularly updates its roster of resident cats, meaning no two classes are the same. For locals, it’s a beloved blend of coffee, community, and cat companionship.