Cwtch Cath, which translates to “safe space/cuddle cat” in Welsh, is the creation of a lifelong art and cat enthusiast who was raised in a household brimming with feline companions. From an early age, she became her mother Karen’s trusted partner whenever a new cat joined the family—especially after the loss of Karen’s beloved soul cat, Sooty. With each rescue or adoption, she learned the ins and outs of caring for and medicating cats, finding peace and comfort in their presence.
After qualifying as an art teacher and moving out on her own, she soon realized how much she missed the daily companionship of cats. Returning home brought her back into Karen’s ever-growing rescue work, where Karen was intermittently assisting local farmers and community members to find new homes for stray and farm-born kittens. As she became more involved, the rescue efforts flourished into what is now known as Karen’s Cat Community, a dedicated space for saving and rehoming cats in need.
In the wake of COVID, and with changing family circumstances, both she and Karen devoted themselves full-time to cat rescue from 2019 to 2023. Over time, health considerations and the need to establish a sustainable income led them to slow down the rescue operations. In 2025, they made the difficult decision to close Karen’s Cat Community in its current form to pursue formal charity registration and ensure it can continue supporting cats in need in the future.
Founding of Cwtch Cath
Originally launched in 2022 as a non-profit venture under the umbrella of Karen’s Cat Community, Cwtch Cath served as a creative outlet where every penny from handmade creations was used to support rescued cats. In 2024, seeing its popularity and demand, it evolved into a small business. While the focus is now on generating personal income, a percentage of the profits is still earmarked for Karen’s Cat Community, ensuring the rescue mission lives on.
Artistry & Future Plans
Cwtch Cath’s tagline—“The shop for cat lovers, cats, and their owners”—captures its core purpose. At present, it offers an array of cat-themed crafts, including catnip toys, tote bags, dreamcatchers, jewelry, stickers, and badges. Many of these items make use of upcycled materials, ensuring each piece is unique and sustainable. The founder also plans to expand into digital pet portraits on a limited basis and explore print-on-demand T-shirt designs, ultimately aiming to acquire sublimation equipment for broader creative possibilities.
Beyond crafting, there is a vision to collaborate with fellow creators, forming a “Crazy Cat Lady Creative Collective,” where more cat-inspired items from various artisans can be featured. Everything sold through Cwtch Cath is handmade or carefully curated, ensuring quality and originality.
Supporting the Cause
While building a small business, Cwtch Cath remains deeply connected to Karen’s Cat Community, continuing to raise funds and awareness for rescue cats. Anyone wishing to donate cat-themed fabric or materials is encouraged to get in touch at cwtchcath@gmail.com. These contributions help create one-of-a-kind items that support the ongoing care and future charitable work of the rescue.
Why Cwtch Cath Exists
Cwtch Cath is, at its heart, a loving tribute to all things feline. It stands as both a showcase of creative passion and a meaningful way to support Karen’s Cat Community. Through handmade crafts, art, and collaborations, Cwtch Cath brings cat lovers together to celebrate, protect, and care for the cats who make our lives richer.