The Journey of Apollo, the Battle-Hardened Cat
Apollo, a cat who once served alongside soldiers on Ukraine's frontlines, has now retired and found a new home in Málaga, Spain. He resides at Paws for a Moment, a cat café and coworking space located in Uncibay Square, proudly recognized as the world's first coworking spot designed for cat lovers. The café was founded by Misha Buenaventura, a Filipino entrepreneur who arrived in Málaga in March 2022. It took nearly a year to complete all the necessary paperwork before opening the doors.
Apollo witnessed a devastating Russian missile strike in Ukraine that tragically took the lives of his family. Afterward, a soldier took him in, and Apollo spent a year accompanying troops on the frontline. The café manager shared:
“We had to fly him here, crossing four countries. When I picked him up, he acted almost like a dog because the soldiers treated him that way.”
Paws for a Moment: More Than Just a Cat Café
Currently, Paws for a Moment is home to 20 cats, mostly rescued from shelters around Málaga. The café operates Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and on weekends from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Visitors pay based on their stay duration:
- Half an hour – starting at €9
- A full eight-hour day costs €65
The menu even features kopi luwak, a rare coffee priced at €40 per cup.
The café works closely with local animal welfare groups like Amam and CityCats, running initiatives to help find homes for stray cats. One such project, Cat Tinder, showcases photos of cats in need of adoption. Paws for a Moment also supports children with serious illnesses by offering free visits in partnership with charitable organizations. Adults facing mental health challenges can access the café through psychiatric referrals.
Beyond its animal-friendly mission, Paws for a Moment hosts various events, including movie screenings, art and origami workshops, and Mexican bingo nights. Misha Buenaventura has already expanded by opening a branch in Tallinn, Estonia, with plans to launch another location soon in Marbella, Spain.
More than a cozy refuge for cats and enthusiasts, Paws for a Moment stands out as a hub of community support and charity in Málaga. Apollo's story highlights the vital role animal rescue plays during crises and how such spaces foster healing for both animals and people affected by hardship. This café has become a meaningful social center, contributing significantly to local welfare and community spirit.