Chongqing – A unique cat theme park in Chongqing has become a nationwide sensation, charming visitors with its heartwarming mission: providing a home and purpose for hundreds of rescued stray cats.
The Firefly Harbor Cat Theme Park, sprawling over 30,000 square meters along the Nanbin Road in Nan'an District, is home to over 500 felines. While some older or infirm cats enjoy retirement, more than 200 "employee cats" actively interact with visitors in designated zones, "earning" their treats through affection.
From Rescue to "Employment"
The cats come from various backgrounds—some were rescued from the streets, others were abandoned, and some arrived from shuttered cat cafes. Many bear signs of past hardship, like missing an eye or an ear, yet they remain remarkably sociable, readily approaching visitors for cuddles.
Staff member Mr. Bai shared a poignant story about a cat named Cola. "He was abused with a blowtorch when he was very young and rescued by us at just over two months old," Bai said. Now eight or nine months old, Cola's scars prevent fur from regrowing, but his trust in people remains unshaken. "There are many cats like Cola here. It's heartbreaking, but we're glad they're safe now."
A Model of Compassionate Commerce
The park operates on an innovative model that balances welfare, public engagement, and sustainability. Visitors pay for entry and treats, with proceeds funding the cats' food, medical care, and shelter maintenance.
"The financial burden for pure rescue organizations can be overwhelming. This model creates a positive cycle—it helps the cats, delights visitors, and supports caretakers," said visitor Ms. Ji, while also noting the importance of ongoing safety and health management.
Many visitors praised the city's compassion. "Chongqing has always been a warm-hearted city, and this park is a concentrated example of that," said Mr. Teng, a tourist who recently moved to the city.
More Than Just a Visit
The experience is deeply personal for some. Eight-year-old Huihui came hoping to find a lost family cat. "If my little 'tiger' is here, I could see him today," she said thoughtfully, already planning to bring a warm blanket for the cats on her next visit.
Adding to the thoughtful design, the park maintains a digital profile for each cat—listing its name, age, health status, and personality. Qualified individuals can even apply to adopt one of these "fur kids," offering them a permanent loving home.
As lines continue to form daily, this "cat paradise" stands as a touching testament to how compassion and community can create second chances, one purr at a time.
(Shi Linqiao and Liu Yiting, as interns, also contributed to the report)