Pounce Cat Cafe + Wine Bar

A must see for any cat lover while in downtown Charleston. I went here while on vacation and had a great time. The $15 covers 1 hour with the cats and a free drink.

It pains me to leave a low review for a business that provides opportunities for animals, however, due to poor management, this shop turned what could have been a five star experience into a heartbreaking one.

To ensure I am painting an honest picture, the shop is clean, we found the entry fee reasonable, and it included a drink. I also believe the business ambassador program that they participate in is a great experience for older cats to run around and get some love rather than be cooped up in a cage.

My wife and I visited them while on vacation on 5/5/2021. During our stay, we bonded with a one year old cat. After discussion upon leaving we decided we wanted to take the cat home with us. We called the next day and were informed pickup could not take place until Monday (contrary to what their website said at the time). After my wife called back, the representative she spoke with told her there was "wiggle room" with this "policy". We immediately shifted our plans, cutting our vacation short so we could bring the cat back, purchased supplies and rushed over to Pounce in rush hour traffic only to be turned away. The person in charged appeared to be waiting to turn us away as the receptionist turned us over to them asking if she "wanted to be the one to speak with us".

Upon leaving, my wife called again since something didn't seem right and was informed it was because they "could not file the paperwork with Charleston Animal Society until Monday" amongst other reasons. We have since confirmed with the business ambassador program this is not the case and the cat could've been adopted that day if this shop truly wanted to place her with a good home.

I realize this is a business and not a non-profit or rescue. Unfortunately, their apologies for wasting our time and getting our hopes up can not undo the heartbreaking experience they caused, or return the day our vacation was cut short, or the half day wasted. At the end of the day, this gives off the appearance, this happened simply because the shop didn't want to part with their precious "inventory" before a busy weekend as their profit is likely mainly from admission.

OMG we had SO much fun here! What a wonderful place. So go hang out with some cats, have a glass of wine and chill.

As someone who worked in the veterinary field for 17 yrs, both as a certified vet tech and a hospital manager, I was impressed with how spotlessly clean (& odor-free!) this cafe was and how clean, happy & healthy the cats were. Also impressed to learn that the cats are typically adopted out in 1-2 wks. This staff clearly works hard! The young lady running the place during our visit was friendly and knowledgeable about each of the cats personalities, recent medical care, etc. Definitely worth the extra $ for the cat whisperer package, which gives you cat treats & feather toy. The cafe gets more money to put towards the cats' care, you get to provide extra enrichment to the cats, and more of the cats come over to you--win, win, win! Also loved the shop in the back with all the cat-themed souvenirs. Things to note: only children age 12 and up are allowed, only street parking available, and strongly recommend scheduling your visit through their website beforehand. Some people stopped in off the street while we were there, and unfortunately were not permitted to come in due to Covid capacity limits.

Best spent 15/person in the city. Great atmosphere, and the cats are clearly well taken care of

Best $15 I spent in Charleston. Possibly ever. Adorable kittens, all really friendly and socialized well, and you get a drink with your ticket!

The snarkiest and rudest barista we have encountered. I hope the cats don’t get the same treatment as some of their customers!!
Definitely should find a different employee.
Making the drive next time to purr&pour in hopes of better and kinder service.

It was sooo fun here!! The cats were all really cute and it was a cool idea. I can’t wait to go back.

Such a great place to hang out, destress, and pet cats!

Some people come to Charleston to see the history. I came and saw the future at Pounce - the future for the adoption of beautiful spirits. Thank you for what you do, Pounce.