VIDEO. A successful opening for PawPao, Agen's first cat café

Agen's first cat café opened its doors on Thursday, September 18, on Rue Molinier. The concept has already won over customers, with 200 customers passing through the doors at the opening.

"Make sure you close the airlock door properly so the cats don't escape." Before entering the establishment, curious onlookers flock to listen to the instructions of Déborah Briffeille, a member of the Justine and Co association. Through the window, five furry stars delight the eyes of passersby. "All were taken in by Justine and Co and are available for adoption," explains Déborah.

Once the rules have been laid out and the doors have been opened, those who dare are invited to share a cozy moment with the little felines. "When we give them the menu, the first page details how to behave around cats," warns Paola Laudu, the owner of the place.

Coffee in hand and a smile on her face, Manon shares her enthusiasm for the place. "I know the concept; I was waiting for the bar to open in Agen. It's good to have new, fun places to meet up." Two tables over, Leah has also come to discover this new haven of comfort. "I love the decor; it creates a cozy atmosphere," the high school student confides, petting one of the cats.

The opening of the bar marks its success, with 200 coffees sold during the opening day on Thursday, September 18. However, this project, entirely conceived by Paola Laudu last March, has not always met with the same enthusiasm from banks. Forced to take out a personal loan to invest in the establishment, the young woman obtained the keys to the place last May, before embarking on a complete renovation of the space on her own. She did not expect "such success." Paola did everything "herself, in her image and with her heart," explains Nathalie, her mother, who came to support her for the opening.

"You can have a drink, a cookie, or a pie," explains Paola. In the pink and green room, pet accessory t-shirts are also available for sale. "We don't just come for the food service, we come especially for the cause," emphasizes Léonard, who was won over by the adoption program set up by Paola Laudu. As of Thursday evening, the establishment had already helped three cats find new homes.

PawPao, 30, rue Molinier is open Monday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., and Tuesday to Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.