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The Dutch capital is a quirky city with many things to do. Here is my mini guide to Amsterdam for cat lovers, featuring two purrfect cat-tastic attractions I enjoyed first hand.
Kattenkabinet
Kattenkabinet (or Cat Cabinet) is a museum dedicated to all things cat. It is a fairly small museum but if you’re looking for something unusual to please your inner cat lady then this is it.
Even the history to the museum is quirky. Opened in 1990, it was founded by Bob Meijer in memory of his ginger cat John Pierpont Morgan (yes that was the cat’s name).
The museum is full of all sorts of cat related art, including paintings, sculptures and other kinds of artefacts. This one-of-a-kind collection even includes work by the likes of Picasso! There is also a cat themed gift shop AND best of all – real cats! Yes you can spot real cats lounging around the museum too.
We weren’t at the museum for very long (like I said, it is fairly small). But it is a great way to spend half an hour or so.
Kattenkabinet is open Tuesday to Sunday, 12.00 to 17.00. Advanced booking is essential as there are capacity limits. Prebook your tickets on Get Your Guide.
De Poezenboot
De Poezenboot aka The Cat Boat is quite literally a floating cat sanctuary. It was founded in 1966 by Henriette van Weelde after she found a homeless family of cats that needed caring for. After that first rescue, Henriette ended up rescuing so many more cats that she needed the space to home them all – and a house boat was the solution!
The Cat Boat of Amsterdam is world famous amongst feline fanatics. It is free to visit, however donations or purchases from the small onboard gift shop are much appreciated. Local people can adopt a cat but if you wish to support the sanctuary and aren’t local, there is a financial adoption option available.
We were only able to stay on the boat for 15 minutes. I could have stayed much longer to pet the cats, but being a cat shelter employee myself I understand why visits must be short and sweet. I would still recommend a visit if you need a cat fix!
De Poezenboot is open to visitors from 1pm to 3pm Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. It is essential to book in advance as the boat is small so space is limited. Visit the website for more info.
