The Munchkin Cat & Dog Café, Georgetown, Penang
Travelling full-time as a family with kids and teens is a dream come true — discovering new foods, exploring colourful streets, learning about different cultures, and making unforgettable memories along the way. But there’s one thing we miss every single day: our dog back home. ❤️
Life on the road can feel a little lonely without a pet in tow, so whenever we come across an animal-friendly spot, we make a beeline for it. That’s how we ended up spending a wonderful afternoon at the Munchkin Cat Café in Georgetown, Penang. If you’re looking for family-friendly things to do in Penang with older kids or teens, this is a purr-fect choice.
And yes — it’s officially Smiths on Tour Approved for a relaxed couple of hours out.
Why a Cat Café is Perfect for Families Travelling with Kids or Teens
When you’re a full-time travelling family, days can get busy with sightseeing, moving between hotels, and figuring out where to eat next. A cat café offers something totally different: the chance to slow down, relax, and soak up some furry cuddles.
For us, it’s also about filling that pet-shaped hole. Sometimes on our travels, it’s a stray dog who wanders over for a pat, and other times it’s an animal café where the cats are centre stage. In Penang, it was all about the Munchkin cats — famous for their adorable short legs and playful personalities.
Tilly, our animal-obsessed teen, was in heaven. If she could, she’d have packed them all into her suitcase. Since we don’t have a permanent home right now, cafés like this let her get that all-important pet love. For other families travelling with teens, this is a brilliant way to add some fun and balance into your Malaysia itinerary.
The Family-Friendly Café Vibe
So, what’s it like inside the Munchkin Cat Café in Georgetown?
Shoes off at the door — everything is kept clean and safe for the cats.
Low tables and floor seating — comfy cushions make it feel cozy and relaxed.
Cats everywhere — some curious, some sleepy, and some acting like you don’t exist (typical cats!).
Games to play — we ended up playing a round of Uno as the cats wandered around. It made the visit even more fun and gave us extra time to hang out as a family.
💡 Smiths on Tour tip: Go earlier in the day if you can. Cats are much more lively in the mornings; by the afternoon, most curl up for a nap.
Cost and Food Options for Families
Entry to the cat café is simple and family-friendly. The price includes:
A drink of your choice — coffees, teas, smoothies, or something refreshing for the kids.
Optional food menu — light meals, snacks, and desserts are available if you want to stay longer.
💰 Prices are around RM18–25 (approx. £3–£5 per person), which is really reasonable for both the experience and the drink included.
⏰ And the best bit? There’s no time limit. Whether you stay for just an hour or settle in for a couple of hours with cats, coffee, and games, it’s entirely up to you.
Bonus Stop: The Husky Café Next Door 🐾
If your family leans more towards dogs (or simply can’t resist adding them into the mix), then you’re in luck — right next door is a Husky Café.
Here, you can meet fluffy huskies with bright blue eyes, play with them, and take lots of photos. It’s a great way to turn your visit into a full animal-themed afternoon in Penang.
Things Families Need to Know
This is definitely a family-friendly café, but with one important rule:
🚫 Children under 10 aren’t allowed inside.
This is likely because some of the cats are sensitive to touch, and it’s important to keep both kids and animals safe. While it’s a shame for families with younger children, it’s totally understandable.
If your kids are older or teens, though, it’s a must-do. It gives them independence, fun, and time to reflect on their own journey so far.
Gangsta Cats! The gold chain, why? To show that these cats only like to be stroked on their head 😃😻
Why Families Should Add This to Their Penang Itinerary
Georgetown is bursting with things to do:
Street art trails
Colourful food markets
Historical temples
Quirky shops and cafes
But sometimes you need to slow things down. The Munchkin Cat Café offers exactly that — a chance to relax, recharge, and enjoy some animal therapy during your travels.
For families travelling with teens in Malaysia, it’s the perfect balance to busy sightseeing days. You’ll leave with smiles, photos, and maybe even the urge to adopt a cat or two.
🐾 Smiths on Tour say: Go for the cats, stay for the coffee, and don’t miss the huskies next door!
