Explore Singapore: Accela’s Guide To The Warm & Fuzzies
Photo by Yerlin Matu on Unsplash
Living in our concrete jungle, the endless toll of stress and social obligations can get to us, and a great way to destress and unwind can be with an animal friend. There is even scientific evidence claiming that animals can help improve mental health. However, if you are not able to foster or adopt a pet, it can be challenging to get your dose of animal therapy.
Lucky for us, in Singapore we are spoilt for choice, being home to the World's Best Zoo and the World's First Nocturnal Zoo. You can view a range of exotic animals from Africa's wild plains to the land down under. But, you may prefer more hands-on interactions with wide-eyed creatures. Get your calendar ready and start planning an outing with our guide to furry and not-so furry things and where to find them in Singapore.
Meomi Cat Cafe
Always a crowd favorite, this intimate cat café is tucked away in Haji Lane. Home to Munchkins, Singapore Specials, Maine Coons and more, you are bound to fall in love with these feline friends. In this cozy spot, you can enjoy some treats and drinks while being surrounded by beautiful cats. Keep in mind, if you plan to bring your kids to this little slice of paradise – they'll need to be 6 years old and above.
Address: Meomi Cat Cafe, 668 North Bridge Rd, Singapore 188801
Opening hours: Mon - Sun: 11:00am – 10:00pm
Website: https://www.facebook.com/meomicatcafe/?ref=page_internal
Live Turtle & Tortoise Museum
If furry felines aren't your cup of tea – maybe you would enjoy getting up and close to some of the oldest reptiles in the world. Enter the secretive world of turtles and tortoises at the Live Turtle & Tortoise Museum where you can see Pancake Tortoises, Golden Terrapins, Six-Legged Tortoises and many more. Also keep your eye out for tortoises, turtles and terrapins that wander freely in the garden. The best part is that you can purchase vegetables and feed them at $2.00 per pack. The Live Turtle and Tortoise Museum is a unique spot for anyone looking to escape from the city and engage with some fantastical reptiles. Don't forget a prior booking is required to visit!
Address: 81 Lor Chencharu ORTO #01-16, Singapore 769198
Opening hours: Wed - Mon: 10:00am – 6:00pm
Closed on Tuesdays
Website: https://www.turtle-tortoise.com/
Hay Dairies Goat Farm
While you may not be able to do goat yoga, this farm is home to over 800 goats that you can pet and feed! No entry fee is required at Singapore's only goat farm, you just need to have some money ready to buy alfalfa hay to feed adorable, hungry goats. Here's a tip: get there before 10.30 am, and you'll be able to catch the goats being milked by the staff. This freshly squeezed milk can be purchased to drink on the spot, or brought home to consume over the week.
Address: No. 3 Lim Chu Kang, Agrotech Park Lane 4, Singapore 718859
Opening hours: Wed – Mon: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Website: haydairies.sg
We Are The Furballs (WTF)
For all dog lovers, plan a visit to Singapore's first dog-petting café. Sit down with a drink and be doused in puppy love. From $10.90 to $12.50, you are entitled 1.5 hours of doggy playtime with their 9 residential canines and a standard drink from their cafe's. However, similar to Meomi Cat Café, for the dogs and younger children's safety, only children above the age of 10 are allowed entry.
Address: 201 Victoria Street, #07-07 Bugis +, Singapore 188067
Opening hours: Sun – Thurs: 1 pm-10 pm
Fri, Sat & Public Holidays: 12.30 pm-10.30 pm
Website: https://www.facebook.com/wearethefurballs/
It should go uncontested that animals are a great form of therapy, so treat yourself to a mood booster with your family or friends at these spots. Remember that social distancing rules still apply at these venues! Now, start booking and get ready to have a paw-fect day.
