Adoption programs that rescue stray and abandoned cats and transfer them to new owners offer crucial solutions to the challenges associated with cats. In recent years, protective cat cafés have proliferated as hubs for such initiatives. This study examined customers visiting protective cat cafés as participants in cat rotection efforts. Using questionnaire surveys and interviews, it analyzed their “protective awareness” alongside “added value” motivations, such as the desire to interact with cats. The findings revealed that both individuals with a strong sense of “protection consciousness” and those who engage purely for the “added value” are essential contributors to these activities. For the sustainability of cat protection efforts in urban area, it is vital to broaden participation by appealing to as many urban residents as possible, including those initially drawn by “added value.” Fostering “protection awareness” is key to achieving higher engagement levels. In addition, protection cat cafés that provide proper care and actively engage in adoption activities have the potential to contribute to improving animal welfare.

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