novel coronavirus pandemic.After opening in July 2019, Catoro Cafe on the Broadway corridor was forced to close its cat lounge in March and lay off 80 per cent of its approximately 25 staff members.“When the pandemic hit, we actually saw about 95 per cent or more of our revenue just being cut almost immediately,” said owner Nathan Chan.Catoro launched an online fundraiser to help cover costs and care for its felines before government subsidies kicked in.
Chan said community support was strong.All of the cats were adopted out or placed in foster homes and the cafe pivoted to sell pet supplies online.