This is who we are. This is why we care.
Feline heart disease research. Local animal shelters. The causes closest to us, supported by the company Cherry built.
Meet Cherry.
Cherry is our logo. Our mascot. The face of La Vita Espresso. She is a Sphynx — one of the most incredible, expressive, and deeply personable cat breeds you will ever meet.
We have loved this breed for over 20 years. Cherry is 14½ and still running the show. She is the reason our logo has pointy ears — and the reason this page exists.
It hits this breed especially hard.
Sphynx cats are prone to a heart condition called Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) — a disease that thickens the heart muscle and often cuts their lives short. It is the most common heart disease in cats, and it hits this breed especially hard.
We have lived with this reality for two decades. It is part of loving the breed. And it is why we support both HCM research and local animal shelters — because we know firsthand how much it matters.
Research and rescue. Both matter.
Feline HCM Research
We support research into feline Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy — the disease that affects Sphynx and other breeds. The work being done at institutions like NC State’s College of Veterinary Medicine is advancing our understanding of this condition and giving cats a better chance.
NC State Veterinary Genetics →Local Animal Shelters
We donate food, supplies, and support to animal shelters across the Twin Cities. Every animal deserves warmth, a meal, and a shot at finding their people. We work with local organizations to provide what they need most.
What is HCM?
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy is a genetic condition that causes the walls of the heart to thicken, making it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively. In cats, it can lead to heart failure, blood clots, and sudden death.
There is no cure — but there is research. Genetic testing, early detection, and ongoing studies are helping veterinarians understand the disease and improve outcomes for affected cats.
Cherry has HCM. She is managed, she is monitored, and at 14½, she is beating the odds every single day.
Cherry’s Cause is just getting started. We will share updates, receipts, and stories as this program grows. No metrics to inflate — just real support, given honestly.
Choose a company that cares.
When you choose La Vita Espresso, you are choosing a company that puts quality, integrity, and purpose into everything we do — from the espresso in your cup to the causes we support.
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