Visiting Bali often feels like stepping into a postcard, with its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and friendly people. But there’s one experience that stands out as particularly delightful for both parents and children alike: a visit to the Villa Kitty Sanctuary in Ubud. As a parent, I had the joy of taking my four-year-old son to this wonderful haven for cats, and it was an adventure filled with laughter, learning, and a tiny bit of nibbling.
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Discovering Villa Kitty Sanctuary
Located in the serene surroundings of Ubud, Villa Kitty Sanctuary is more than just a place for cats. It’s a testament to compassion and care for our feline friends. The sanctuary rescues, rehabilitates, and rehomes cats, many of whom have had a rough start in life. As soon as we arrived, we were welcomed by the friendly staff and an array of cats lounging around, ready to interact with visitors.
Cats Galore: A Child’s Delight
For my son, the sheer number of cats was a dream come true. With wide eyes and an excited grin, he immediately began to explore the sanctuary, eager to meet his new furry friends. The staff had thoughtfully provided a brief orientation, emphasizing the importance of gentle handling and respect for the cats’ space. This was an excellent introduction for my little one, setting the stage for a positive interaction.
1. Playtime with the Cats
As we wandered through the sanctuary, my son was in his element. He petted the cats, played with them using feather toys, and even tried to imitate their purring. The cats, all vaccinated and in good health, were patient and gentle with him. It was heartwarming to see the mutual enjoyment on the faces of both the cats and my son.
However, amidst the giggles and purrs, there was a small incident. One particularly playful cat nibbled on my son’s finger. It wasn’t a serious bite—no blood or cuts, just a surprised yelp and a quick withdrawal of his hand. The sanctuary staff quickly reassured us, explaining that the cat was merely being playful. My son, though initially startled, soon recovered and was back to playing with the cats, albeit with a bit more caution.
The Importance of Supervision
This incident served as a gentle reminder of the importance of supervision, especially with young children. While the cats are friendly and well-cared for, they are still animals with their own personalities and boundaries. Many of them have been through trauma, making them occasionally unpredictable. Adult supervision ensures that interactions remain safe and enjoyable for both the children and the cats.
2. Health and Safety First
Villa Kitty Sanctuary takes the health and safety of its cats seriously. Every cat that interacts with visitors is fully vaccinated and has a clean bill of health. This diligence provides peace of mind to parents, knowing that their children are playing in a safe environment. The only real risk, as we experienced, is a minor scratch or nibble. But these are part and parcel of any interaction with animals and serve as valuable lessons in empathy and respect for living beings.
The Joys of Animal Companionship
Despite the small nibble, our visit to Villa Kitty Sanctuary was overwhelmingly positive. My son left with a newfound appreciation for cats and a heart full of joy. The sanctuary not only provided a fun-filled day but also an educational experience about animal welfare and kindness.
3. Lasting Memories
As we left the sanctuary, my son was already asking when we could return. The memories of the playful cats, the gentle purring, and the fun games were etched in his mind. For me, it was a day well spent, knowing that my child had learned valuable lessons while having a great time.
A Purr-fect Family Outing
Villa Kitty Sanctuary in Ubud is a must-visit for families with young children. It’s a place where kids can connect with animals, learn about compassion, and have a lot of fun. Just remember to keep an eye on the little ones and teach them the importance of gentle and respectful interactions. With these precautions in mind, a visit to Villa Kitty Sanctuary promises to be a purr-fect family outing filled with joy and learning.
As the sun dipped behind the verdant hills, casting long shadows over the sanctuary, we departed with a sense of contentment and anticipation for our next visit. Indeed, Villa Kitty Sanctuary had imprinted on us the subtle art of coexistence with our feline companions, an experience that would resonate long after we left the tranquil grounds of Ubud.
