Cat yoga: Charlotte animal shelter hosting classes with kittens up for adoption
Looking for a new workout? Or a new pet? Surprisingly, you can find both at the Humane Society of Charlotte.
The local nonprofit organization is offering cat yoga classes, featuring several cats from the shelter. Think slow flow yoga focused on balance, flexibility and mindfulness while surrounded by adorable kittens roaming around the room.
This unique yoga experience isn’t just a chance to get a good workout while playing with cats that need new homes. Organizers say it’s an ongoing fundraiser to help support the Humane Society’s cause and boost adoption rates.
The shelter has multiple cats that are up for adoption, but during this time of year, there’s usually an uptick in the number of pets that need new homes, especially cats.
“Summer time is kitten season, so we do see a higher number of cats in the summer months,” a spokesperson from the Humane Society of Charlotte told CharlotteFive. “It definitely helps to get the cats in a room full of people who could be potential adopters.”
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Each cat yoga class, taught by local instructors, will typically have about three to four cats from the shelter that will be participating and playing during yoga. All pets at the shelter are available on a first-come, first-served basis, but if you happen to fall in love with a feline stretching out next to you during a downward dog pose, you’ll be able to go through the adoption process after any class.
Stretch and support a good cause
Even if you don’t adopt a cat, proceeds from the cat yoga fundraiser will help benefit the Humane Society of Charlotte. There are multiple classes through the rest of the summer and fall you can still sign up for:
Aug. 5: 11 a.m.-12 p.m.; 1-2 p.m.
Sept. 23: 11 a.m.-12 p.m.; 1-2 p.m.
Oct. 28: 11 a.m.-12 p.m.; 1-2 p.m.
The cat yoga classes are open to all ages, but those 16 and younger do require supervision from a parent or guardian. Registration is required, and you can sign up for any of the classes online.
Just make sure to bring your own yoga mat, some water and the energy to work on your cat-like reflexes.
This story was originally published July 31, 2023 at 6:00 AM.
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