Disclaimer: Okay, yes, maybe I have been posting a bit more than usual about cats lately, but I also post about dogs, and chickens, and guinea pigs, and ducks, and horses, and other animals. This is proof that I am not becoming a crazy cat lady. That is my story, and I’m sticking to it.Cat cafes have been popular in Japan where most people live in apartment buildings which don’t allow pets.

Some of these places even have exotic pure-breed cats which most of us never get to see in person. I remember thinking the cat-lady-by-the-hour thing was a nutty idea, but being kind of charmed by it at the same time. I also remember thinking “Only in Japan.” Wrong.

Two weeks ago, Meow Parlor opened in New York City, and when I saw the story on the news, I thought it was complete lunacy. That is until they mentioned that all the cats are rescues and are available for adoption. YOU CAN TEST-DRIVE A CAT. Now I’m thinking it’s pure New York genius!

“Prepare To Die Of Adorableness . . . Unless you have cat allergies, in which case you will die of those first.” (Awesome line stolen from “The MarySue“)

Of course, because of the health code, they can’t actually sell food or drink there, so you first pick up what you want Meow Parlour Patisserie around the corner, then bring it with you. And thanks to their partnership with KittyKind, a no-kill NYC shelter, you don’t have to worry that they’ll run out of felines. I think we need a dog cafe, too! Who’s with me?

Meow Parlour, 46 Hester St. between Essex Street and Ludlow Street, New York, NY. Reservations required. Open Noon-8 p.m.