What are Kitty Kasas? Kitty Kasas are modular, stackable cat shelters designed to be durable, easy to clean, and customizable for cats’ comfort and play.
Summary
- Kitty Kasas, created by Nikki Linn and Rusty Niedwick, appeared on Shark Tank Season 10 seeking an investment for their modular cat shelters.
- They secured a deal with Lori Greiner for $200,000 in exchange for 30% equity.
- Despite the deal, the company was later acquired by Jolly Pets.
- Kitty Kasas products are still available online and in pet stores like Petco.
- The company’s mission aligns with the founders’ no-kill animal shelter, donating a portion of sales to support similar organizations.
Kitty Kasas Shark Tank Update | Shark Tank Season 10
What are Kitty Kasas?
Kitty Kasas are modular, stackable cat shelters designed with a focus on durability, cleanliness, and feline enrichment.
Imagine colorful, customizable cubes that can be arranged in endless configurations to create a personalized cat haven.
Whether your cat prefers a cozy hideaway, a stimulating playground, or a combination of both, Kitty Kasas offer the flexibility to cater to their unique needs.
These versatile shelters are made from durable, easy-to-clean materials, making them ideal for even the most rambunctious felines.
The Founders’ Story
The story of Kitty Kasas is rooted in a deep passion for animal welfare. Nikki Linn and Rusty Niedwick, the creative minds behind these innovative cat shelters, are also the founders of a no-kill animal shelter.
Their firsthand experience with caring for cats inspired them to develop a product that would provide comfort, enrichment, and a sense of security for their feline residents.
What began as a solution for their shelter cats quickly blossomed into a full-fledged business, driven by a desire to enhance the lives of cats everywhere.
Kitty Kasas Shark Tank Pitch
1. The Pitch
| Entrepreneurs | Nikki Linn and Rusty Niedwick |
|---|---|
| Business | Kitty Kasas – Modular, stackable cat shelters |
| Ask | $200,000 for 20% equity |
| Deal | $200,000 for 30% equity from Lori Greiner |
| Sharks | Mark Cuban, Kevin O’Leary, Lori Greiner, Barbara Corcoran, Sara Blakely (Guest Shark) |
| Season – Episode | Season 10, Episode 10 |
| Original Air Date | January 27, 2019 |
| Website | Kitty Kasas |
| Key Points of Pitch |
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| Why Sharks Accepted |
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2. The Ask and the Offer
Nikki and Rusty entered the Tank seeking $200,000 in exchange for a 20% stake in their company.
They highlighted the unique features of Kitty Kasas, emphasizing their durability, ease of cleaning, and the potential for customization.
They also shared their passion for animal welfare, explaining how their experience with running a no-kill shelter inspired the creation of Kitty Kasas.
3. The Sharks’ Reactions
The Sharks were intrigued by the product and the founders’ story.
- Mark Cuban inquired about the company’s financials and sales projections.
- Sara Blakely was curious about their journey from running an animal shelter to creating a pet product.
- Kevin O’Leary, impressed with their sales figures, offered $200,000 for a 33.3% stake.
- Lori Greiner, recognizing the potential for mass appeal and retail success, matched Kevin’s offer.
Ultimately, Nikki and Rusty negotiated a deal with Lori for $200,000 in exchange for 30% equity.
Kitty Kasas After Shark Tank
1. The Lori Greiner Deal
While Nikki and Rusty excitedly accepted Lori Greiner’s offer on Shark Tank, it appears the deal ultimately did not close.
Lori’s portfolio of Shark Tank investments doesn’t list Kitty Kasas. This isn’t uncommon, as many deals made on the show fall through during the due diligence phase.
However, even without Lori’s direct involvement, Kitty Kasas continued to grow.
2. Acquisition by Jolly Pets
In a surprising turn of events, Kitty Kasas was acquired by Jolly Pets in July 2019. Jolly Pets, a well-established manufacturer of durable dog toys, saw the potential in Kitty Kasas’ unique products and their commitment to quality.
This acquisition proved to be a beneficial move for both companies. It allowed Kitty Kasas to expand its reach and leverage Jolly Pets’ manufacturing and distribution capabilities.
This acquisition highlights the fact that success after Shark Tank can come in many forms. Even if a deal with a Shark doesn’t materialize, entrepreneurs can still find avenues for growth and achieve their goals.
Where to Buy Kitty Kasas Products
Even though the Shark Tank deal fell through, you can still find Kitty Kasas products for your feline friends! Thanks to the acquisition by Jolly Pets, their distribution has actually expanded. Here are some of the places where you can purchase Kitty Kasas:
- Jolly Pets Website: You can find the full line of Kitty Kasas products directly on the Jolly Pets website.
- Amazon: Kitty Kasas products are readily available on Amazon, often with Prime shipping options for those who need their cat shelters quickly.
- Petco: Select Kitty Kasas products can be found both online and in Petco stores.
- Other Pet Retailers: Keep an eye out for Kitty Kasas at other pet supply stores, both online and in your local area.
The Impact on Animal Shelters
Nikki and Rusty’s dedication to animal welfare shines through in their business practices. Kitty Kasas continues to support no-kill animal shelters in several ways:
- Donations: A portion of every Kitty Kasas purchase goes towards supporting various no-kill shelters across the country. This helps provide essential resources and care for animals in need.
- Shelter Use: The durable and easy-to-clean design of Kitty Kasas makes them ideal for use in shelters. They provide a comfortable and enriching environment for cats awaiting their forever homes.
By choosing Kitty Kasas, cat owners not only provide their own pets with fantastic products but also contribute to the well-being of shelter animals.
Future of Kitty Kasas
With the backing of Jolly Pets, the future of Kitty Kasas looks bright. We can expect to see:
- Continued Innovation: New designs, colors, and features are likely on the horizon as they continue to develop products that cater to cats’ needs.
- Wider Distribution: As the brand grows, we can anticipate seeing Kitty Kasas in even more retail locations, making them accessible to a wider audience.
- Increased Support for Shelters: The commitment to giving back to the animal welfare community will likely remain a core value for Kitty Kasas.
Kitty Kasas has carved a unique niche in the pet industry by combining innovative design, a dedication to quality, and a passion for animal welfare. With their ongoing commitment to creating products that enrich the lives of cats, Kitty Kasas is poised for continued success.
FAQs
Are Kitty Kasas still in business?
Yes, Kitty Kasas is still in business! While they were acquired by Jolly Pets, the Kitty Kasas brand remains and continues to produce its unique line of cat shelters.
Where can I buy Kitty Kasas products?
You can purchase Kitty Kasas products directly from the Jolly Pets website, Amazon, Petco, and select pet retailers.
What makes Kitty Kasas different from other cat shelters?
Kitty Kasas are known for their modular design, durability, and ease of cleaning. They offer a high degree of customization, allowing cat owners to create unique and enriching environments for their feline companions.
Do Kitty Kasas help animals in shelters?
Absolutely! Kitty Kasas donates a portion of its profits to support no-kill animal shelters. Their products are also designed to be durable and hygienic, making them suitable for use in shelter environments.
What is the price range for Kitty Kasas products?
The price of Kitty Kasas products varies depending on the size and features. Individual units typically range from $40 to $70.
The Bottom Line
Kitty Kasas offers a unique and innovative approach to cat shelters, prioritizing feline enrichment, durability, and ease of use. While their Shark Tank deal with Lori Greiner didn’t come to fruition, the company has thrived under the ownership of Jolly Pets.
By choosing Kitty Kasas, cat owners can provide their pets with stimulating and comfortable environments while also supporting a company dedicated to animal welfare. If you’re looking for a high-quality, customizable, and fun cat shelter, Kitty Kasas is definitely worth considering.
