The Beckoning Cat Project, 1417 E. Third St., has been providing the community a nonprofit low-cost, high-quality spay and neuter clinic for cats since 2014, in an attempt to help control the feral and stray cat population humanely and compassionately.

The Beckoning Cat Project is growing and bringing yet another beneficial service to Williamsport — for cats and cat lovers. Cat Tales Cat Cafe will be opening this month at 1417 E. Third St., right next to the Beckoning Cat Project clinic.

“Cafes allow the cats to live a more natural life, rather than in a cage,” said Kerry Perry, executive director of the Beckoning Cat Project. The Beckoning Cat Project is not a shelter, but that does not stop them from being advocates for cats who need homes, and Cat Tales Cat Cafe will only increase this advocacy.

“This will also allow people to interact with potential new pets and see if they fit with their personality,” said Perry. And it will not just be the crazy-social cats who benefit from this new environment. “Cats who do not show well in a kennel will be able to shine and find their homes,” said Perry, who also notes shelter life can take a toll on cats emotionally, leading to stress and depression.

Cat Tales Cat Cafe was made possible by the Beckoning Cat Project’s partnerships with Cherished Cats Rescue Alliance, 230 Market St., Suite 1, Lewisburg, and the Lycoming County SPCA, 2805 Reach Road, who are excited to be able to show off their cats in a more natural setting, said Perry.

Cat Tales Cat Cafe will be a space for lovable cats and people to enjoy each other’s company. Although no food will be served, people are welcome to bring their own, said Perry. Cat Tales Cat Cafe will host special events and offer birthday parties and other types of private gatherings. Admission is $5 per person for an hour of belly rubs, cuddles and nose boops. To visit the cafe, you must be six years of age or older.

“This just seemed like a natural way to be able to help cats find homes,” said Perry.

Cat Tales Cat Cafe will be opening this month at 1417 E. Third St., Williamsport, with information of a grand opening to follow.