The Cat Cafe at Rail Mall to close in Mar. 2026 due to 50% rent increase

The Cat Cafe at the Rail Mall along Upper Bukit Timah Road will close its doors in March 2026.

The cafe with 14 rescued cats shared on Facebook on Apr. 29 that it has become unsustainable to continue operating at the Rail Mall outlet.

It shared that after opening in the middle of the Covid-19 lockdowns in May 2020, the cafe continued to face challenges in the post-pandemic climate, including a 50 per cent hike in rental prices, rising supplier costs, and increased staff salaries.

It added:

"We are beyond grateful to everyone who had made @sgcatcafe.therailmall possible."

In response to Mothership's queries, the cafe said rent increased by 40 to 50 per cent in 2023 and could not be negotiated, as the landlord was "pretty much in control".

It also added that the footfall in the area has dropped significantly since the middle of 2024.

It added: "Thank you for being part of our story. Let's make these last 10 months at The Rail Mall unforgettable!"

Adoption drive

Most of the cats at the Rail Mall outlet will be rehomed with current or former staff, while some will be transferred to the Bugis outlet.

A few of the cats may be made available for public adoption, which would take place in January or February 2026, said the cafe.

The final 10 months of operations will see the cafe host monthly celebrations, promotions, and fundraisers for the animal shelters that have supported them.

Top photos via The Cat Cafe/Facebook & Google Maps