You can hold Idli, if she lets you. Dosa, on the other hand, is like a tiny boss on patrol, strutting about with suspicious eyes, occasionally barking at dogs twice his size. Gabbar, the pug puppy, is feisty but will melt for the magic word: treat.
Idli and Dosa are mini Pomeranians, and Gabbar is the kind of teething pup who will help you understand why pet parents joke about “shark teeth” — just let him nibble your finger and you will know.
Welcome to Pet Café Hyderabad (PCH), a cheerful vegetarian café where you do not need to be a pet owner to enjoy the company of cats and dogs. This pet-friendly space, on street no 4, Banjara Hills, has five in-house dogs and seven cats, all rescued from heartbreaking circumstances — found in bins, by highways, or abandoned in bags.
The café was founded by Deven Baheti, who also runs Deven’s Hope, an animal rescue organisation, alongside his wife Sonam Singh.
A furry visitor at the cafe eager to meet the resident pets
| Photo Credit:
SIDDHANT THAKUR
The moment you enter, you will notice a manned gate, essential to keep the dogs safe as they roam around off-leash. A spiral staircase leads you to the upper level of the café, where the cats reside in a well-padded space (even the skirting boards are pet-proofed).
Inside, pastel walls create a calm ambience, decorated with artwork by Deven’s mother. It is warm, welcoming, and designed with both animals and humans in mind.
At PCH, you can hang out with the resident pets, bring your own, or just stop by for a coffee and some cuddles. “We encourage people who are unsure or afraid of animals to visit,” says Deven. “Our in-house pets are calm, well-socialised, and not clingy.”
Gabbar takes centre stage as diners settle down at Pet Cafe Hyderabad in Banjara hills
| Photo Credit:
SIDDHANT THAKUR
Many of the animals here are unadoptable due to health issues or age. Idli has epilepsy. Mia, the senior dog of the house, is 12 years old and a champion cuddler. Lexie is a three-legged dog who has been with them since puppyhood. Upstairs, the cats are equally special — Tiger has two legs, Naina is blind, and Milky… is just moody.
The staff at PCH are quick, attentive, and incredibly kind, especially when it comes to handling animal behaviour. If a bark or growl breaks out, someone is immediately on it.
Latte Art featuring a kitten
| Photo Credit:
Prabalika Borah
There is a special menu for the pets — the in-house dogs and cats are not allowed human food, but they do get their own freshly prepared treats. Guest pets can indulge in chicken or egg-based options.
For humans, the vegetarian menu is light, hearty, and well-made. There is avocado open toast, pasta, grilled veggies over herbed rice in white sauce, and sandwiches. Do not forget the coffee, served with latte art.
A calm furry visitor waiting for treats
| Photo Credit:
SIDDHANT THAKUR
If you are new to handling pets, the team will guide you. Do not lift them by their front paws or squish them too hard. And if they wriggle away, let them go, do not hold on. If you are tall, squat before letting them down to avoid injury.
The entry fee is ₹500, fully redeemable against food and drink.
Published – July 23, 2025 03:56 pm IST
