Would You Take Your Cat to Work with You?

Is it a good idea to take your cat to work? According to Pet Sitters International, approximately 1.5 million American workers take their furry friends to the office each day. And with Take Your Cat To Work Day on June 20th, that number is likely to grow! While this may seem like a fun way to spend the day, there are pros and cons to taking your cat to work. Let's look at both sides of the issue and help you decide if taking your cat to work is right for you!

Get Permission!

Not all work environments are suitable for your feline friend, but if you work in an office, you may be able to bring in your friend. Be sure to get permission before bringing your cat to work with you.

Unfortunately, many people are allergic to cats, so it may not be ideal for bringing your cat to work. However, if you work in your own office with a door, it may be ok to bring them to work with you!

Be Prepared

If your cat is around for an entire workday, bring whatever they'll need for several hours away from home. You'll need a bowl for water, food if mealtime happens while you're at work, treats, toys, and any medication(s) your cat might need. You'll also need a litter box or some other way to let your cat go potty so you can dispose of waste properly.

Don't Force It

Know your cat. If your cat is easily startled, uncomfortable in new environments, or anxious around new people, Take Your Cat To Work Day may not be a great idea. Also, other people may want to bring in their cats, so if your kitty doesn't like the presence of other felines, problems can quickly arise. Workplaces can be busy and noisy, and people come and go, so if your cat likes to sneak through open doors, that might be another issue. Don't make your cat anxious or unsafe.

Cons of Bringing Your Cat to Work

Many cats are set in their daily routines, so by changing things up, you could stir up challenges you may not be able to turn around. Cats sleep 14 to 16 hours a day. Then they spend another two hours per day cleaning themselves and at least an hour lying in a sunbeam, batting at tiny specks of dust-snow, leaving little time for the traditional 40-hour work week.

Don't force your coworkers to interact with your cat—those who love cats will do so without encouragement. Some people might be allergic to your cat or simply not like cats. In a professional setting, it's essential to be considerate of your colleagues and consider their feelings. If you know someone who is particularly allergic or doesn't like animals, it might be best to leave your cat at home.

Pros of Bringing Your Cat to Work

• It increases employee morale and lowers stress. It's no surprise that having pets at work improves staff morale. According to one research, pets provide more stress relief than the company of a spouse or close friend, providing "social support" to pet owners.
• Increase production. Contrary to popular belief, housing pets in the workplace has been shown to increase productivity. It's thought that caring for a pet at home during your free time can help you avoid burnout and tiredness.
• It boosts customer perceptions. Allowing pets at work may also improve the client experience, especially if consumers get a chance to pet the animal. After all, who doesn't enjoy meeting a new furry companion?
• Encourages social interaction. According to experts, cats are a great conversation starter, so it's no surprise that having animals at work promotes social engagement. Individuals with difficulties interacting may connect with their coworkers over their love of animals. Furthermore, high levels of social interaction boost employee happiness and morale.
• Pets can provide comfort and emotional support to employees coping with mental illness. Cats are excellent emotional support animals and may assist people with mental illnesses. Petting animals has been proven to boost feel-good hormones and reduce anxiety, which is particularly important when coping with mental health problems.
• Improves employee retention. Did you know that allowing cats at work can assist employee retention while attracting new employees? Adapting a pet-friendly policy makes the company seem forward-thinking and attractive to potential talent and current workers.
• It is good for our health. According to the CDC, Pets help lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Having pets at work might benefit employers and employees by reducing missed work for medical appointments and illnesses.

Healthy Cat with Salmon Oil for Cats

• Salmon oil is a natural source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for cats' health.
• Omega-3 fatty acids can help to reduce inflammation, improve skin and coat health, and support heart health.
• Salmon oil can be given to cats as a supplement or added to their food.
• When choosing a salmon oil supplement, it is important to choose one that is high quality and free of contaminants.

Vital Pet Life's Salmon oil for cats is a natural supplement that is made with wild Alaskan salmon oil. Our Salmon Oil is available in a variety of sizes, so you can choose the right size for your cat.

Overall, bringing your cat to work can be an excellent experience for both you and your feline friend—be sure to take the necessary precautions and have a plan in place if things don't go as smoothly as hoped.

Ultimately, it's up to you as the pet parent to decide what will make your feline friend most comfortable. If you choose to bring your kitty into the office with you, follow our tips for a smooth transition. And remember, patience and love will go a long way in helping them feel at home while at work. What do you think? Would you bring your cat to work?