Finding a Pet-Friendly Café in Pinklao

Most cafés in Bangkok say they welcome pets, but they usually mean dogs on a leash, and a cat needs a different plan. Simba is a Scottish Fold, almost three years old, and he is not a fan of loud places. I spent a few weekends finding one that works.

Here is what helped. Call ahead and ask whether they allow cats in a carrier, not just dogs. Ask if the seating is indoors or on a balcony, since air conditioning matters a lot when your cat is wearing a fur coat. Bring a small towel for the table and a collapsible bowl.

The café near Pinklao that I like is quiet on weekday mornings, and the staff gave Simba a corner by the window without fuss. He sat in his carrier with the door open and watched the street for an hour.

Tip: take the carrier out of the car first, then the cat. It sounds obvious, but I learned it the hard way.