Feline-themed cafe a hit in French capital

At a newly-opened cafe in Paris, customers can grab a cup of coffee and croissant, all while enjoying a side of cuddles from some furry friends.

At a newly-opened cafe in Paris, customers can grab a cup of coffee and croissant, all while enjoying a side of cuddles from some furry friends.

The "Cafe des Chats" in the heart of the French capital is home to a dozen felines, who weave in between the tables or curl up on armchairs as diners tuck in to their drinks.

The cafe allows customers who can't have pets at home to enjoy their steaming brew with a purring cat perched on their knees. The manager says the potential health benefits of "purr-therapy" are no joke.

Margaux Gandelon, Manager, Cafe Des Chats, said, "Purring produces vibrations which heal, which relieve arthritis and rheumatism, which lower your blood pressure and your heartbeat. But obviously all that isn't guaranteed when you walk in to the Cat cafe. What's guaranteed is good food, a great atmosphere, and being surrounded by cats."

This month's opening weekend has been a resounding success, with lines snaking along the pavement. The cafe is booked from now until November, and some 300 potential customers had to be turned away.

"The cat was sitting on the chair when I got here, so I put him on my knee. I didn't know what he was going to do... but he stayed, so I'm really pleased."

The animals themselves are a motley crew of abandoned cats and strays adopted from pet rescue centers. For those unable to own a pet due to long working hours or small living quarters, this is the place to find some comfort from cat companionship, not to mention it will undoubtedly be a hit with tourists, novelty seekers and parents with small children.