Pet-friendly apartments in Japan are a rare and expensive find, especially for cat and dog owners, as our furry friends will most likely leave some marks on wallpaper, floors and any furniture that comes with the apartment.
However, Kobe residents can now live comfortably with their favourite feline in these studio apartments, equipped with plenty of cat-friendly amenities. First, the usual human features: a combination living- and bedroom, a bathroom with shower, a balcony and a small kitchenette. Each apartment can accommodate up to two people and three cats.
The two-storey apartment building is called the ‘Wakohre Viano Tarumi Shirogayama Cat’s House’ and is a joint project between property developer Wada Kohsan and fashion/lifestyle online shop Felissimo’s Nekobu which caters to cat lovers.
The 12 apartments in the building are outfitted with a variety of climbing play areas for cats. There's a shelf-like staircase for them to jump and climb up on, as well as two walkways – one made from a transparent acrylic material and the other from wood – that lead to the loft area of the room. Cats love high places, so these look like purrfect features every furball will enjoy.
Even the flooring material is softer than usual to prevent scratches and paw marks. The screen door between the room and the balcony boasts an extra strong material that’s tear-resistant.
The main room is separated from the kitchenette and bathroom area by a door that's fitted with a convenient and lockable cat flap.
You also don’t need to worry about your kitty running out the front door, as this movable glass partition separates the entranceway from the rest of the apartment.
All apartments on the ground floor are equipped with a submerged storage area in the bathroom, perfect for storing cat litter or supplies.
These cat-friendly abodes are quite reasonably priced, too, especially when compared to Tokyo. Monthly rent starts at ¥60,000. That’s not all – tenants will receive a Felissimo online shop coupon worth ¥2,500 every month.
It’s an unusual arrangement, but if you really love cats and Kobe, this might just be the place for you.
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