National Take Your Cat To Work Day

A professional office setting with a cat leisurely sitting on a desk, wearing a tiny tie, surrounded by office supplies and papers.. — National take your cat to work day illustration

Are you tired of leaving your furry friend behind every time you go to work? Well, mark your calendars because on National Take Your Cat to Work Day, you can bring your feisty feline to the office! This quirky holiday celebrates the unique bond between humans and their favorite four-legged companions, and it's the purr-fect opportunity to show off your cat's impeccable office etiquette. So, grab your briefcase and a handful of cat treats, because this national day is about to get whisker-tastic!

When is Take Your Cat To Work Day?

It's national take your cat to work day on the 22nd June.

The Internet Craze Behind National Take Your Cat to Work Day

Believe it or not, National Take Your Cat to Work Day didn't originate from some dusty old history book. In fact, it began as an internet sensation that quickly gained momentum on social media platforms. Cat lovers from all walks of life started sharing adorable photos and videos of their cats exploring the workplace, lounging on keyboards, and photobombing important meetings. It didn't take long for this online craze to turn into a full-fledged national holiday.

A Day of Feline Fun in the Workplace

On National Take Your Cat to Work Day, offices across the country transform into temporary playgrounds for our favorite feline friends. From cubicles to boardrooms, cats take over every nook and cranny as they strut their stuff in their finest collars and bowties. It's a day filled with laughter, mischief, and plenty of scratching posts.

Office Etiquette for Your Purr-fect Colleague

Before you unleash your cat's inner business tycoon, it's important to establish some ground rules. Here are a few tips to ensure a successful day at the office:

Make sure your colleagues are comfortable with having a furry visitor in the workspace.
Create a safe, designated area where your cat can relax and feel at home.
Keep a litter box and plenty of fresh water easily accessible.
Bring a selection of toys to keep your cat entertained throughout the day.
Consider any allergies or sensitivities your coworkers may have before bringing your cat in.
And lastly, don't forget to capture the memorable moments and share them on social media using the hashtag #TakeYourCattoWorkDay!

Did You Know?

Cats were considered sacred in ancient Egypt and were worshipped as gods. It's safe to say that our feline friends have had a long-standing love for the limelight. They've gone from being revered in temples to becoming internet celebrities!

History behind the term 'Take Your Cat To Work'

1999

Introduction of 'Bring Your Dog to Work Day'

In 1999, Pet Sitters International (PSI), an organization dedicated to promoting and educating pet owners about pet sitting, established 'Bring Your Dog to Work Day'. The purpose of this day was to celebrate the companionship and joy that dogs bring to our lives, while promoting their adoption from animal shelters and rescues. This event gained popularity and became an annual observance in the United States.

1999

Bringing pets to work gains popularity

In 1999, the concept of bringing pets to work started gaining popularity as companies recognized the positive impact it had on employee morale and productivity. It was discovered that having pets in the workplace reduced stress levels, increased creativity, and promoted a more relaxed and enjoyable work environment.

1996

The birth of Take Your Cat to Work Day

Take Your Cat to Work Day originated in 1996 as a lighthearted idea by the founders of `Take Your Dog to Work Day`, which aimed to promote the benefits of pets in the workplace. The creators, Thomas and Ruth Roy of Wellcat Holidays, recognized that cats were equally important companions to many people and decided to designate a separate day for feline coworkers.

1999

Introduction of 'Bring Your Pet to Work Day'

In 1999, the concept of bringing pets to work gained traction with the introduction of 'Bring Your Pet to Work Day'. This special day was created to encourage pet owners to bring their furry friends to the office for companionship and stress relief. This day was initially celebrated in the United States but quickly gained popularity around the world.

1993

The introduction of 'Bring Your Dog to Work Day.'

In 1993, Pet Sitters International started a new initiative called 'Bring Your Dog to Work Day.' This day encouraged employees to bring their furry companions to the office, promoting a happier and stress-free work environment. It gained popularity quickly, showing that having pets in the workplace can have positive effects on productivity and employee satisfaction.

1999

The Birth of Take Your Cat to Work Day

In 1999, Take Your Cat to Work Day was created by a group of cat enthusiasts and animal advocates. The idea behind the day was to promote cats as loving and lovable companions and to raise awareness about cat adoption. The founders believed that allowing cats in the workplace could reduce stress and increase productivity.

1999

Workplace Stress Awareness

In 1999, a Washington D.C.-based organization called Pets in the Workplace initiated a program called 'National Bring Your Pet to Work Day' to raise awareness about the positive effects of pets on workplace stress. This day was meant for employees to bring their pets, including cats, to the office for a day.

1999

The Birth of Take Your Cat to Work Day

In 1999, the first Take Your Cat to Work Day was established by the editors at the "Take Your Cat to Work Day" website. Inspired by the success of Bring Your Dog to Work Day, they wanted to create a day that celebrated the unique bond between cats and their owners. The goal was to promote adoption of cats and to raise awareness about the benefits of a cat-friendly workplace.

1999

The Birth of Take Your Cat to Work Day

In 1999, a United States-based organization called Take Your Cat to Work Day was founded by Paul and Tommie Popovich. The aim of this day was to promote the adoption of cats and showcase the benefits of having cats as companions. The Popoviches believed that bringing cats to the workplace could create a more relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere for employees.

1996

The start of 'Take Your Cat to Work Day.'

Following the success of 'Bring Your Dog to Work Day,' a cat-related event idea emerged. In 1996, 'Take Your Cat to Work Day' was introduced by a feline behaviorist, Susan Logan, in her book 'The Cat in the Office.' Logan believed that cats too could provide similar benefits as dogs, and this day aimed to raise awareness about the benefits of having cats in the workplace.

2002

Expansion to Include Cats

As the idea of bringing pets to work continued to grow, people began to realize that cats, with their independent and low-maintenance nature, could also make great office companions. In 2002, the concept of 'Take Your Cat to Work' was introduced as an extension of 'Bring Your Pet to Work Day'. This allowed cat lovers to bring their feline friends to the office, creating a more inclusive workplace environment.

1999

Take Your Dog to Work Day established

In the same year, Pet Sitters International (PSI) created 'Take Your Dog to Work Day' as a way to promote awareness of the benefits of pets in the workplace. The event was celebrated on the first Friday after Father's Day, allowing employees to bring their dogs to work for a day. The initiative gained significant media attention and gradually grew in popularity.

2002

Growing Popularity and Media Coverage

By 2002, Take Your Cat to Work Day had begun to gain traction and receive media attention. Newspapers, blogs, and TV shows started to cover the event, highlighting stories of cats accompanying their owners to work. The growing popularity of the day brought attention to the positive impact cats can have on workplace productivity, stress reduction, and employee morale.

1997

An unofficial celebration grows

The celebration gained popularity quickly, with cat enthusiasts embracing the idea and participating in Take Your Cat to Work Day. People began sharing their experiences and photos of their furry coworkers on social media and various online forums, further fueling the unofficial celebration of bringing cats to work.

2002

Official Recognition by the American Association of Feline Enthusiasts

In 2002, the American Association of Feline Enthusiasts officially recognized Take Your Cat to Work Day. This recognition helped to popularize the event and draw attention to the benefits of having cats in the workplace. Many companies started to embrace the idea and allowed their employees to bring their furry friends to work on this special day.

2002

Origin of the term 'Bring Your Cat to Work Day'

Building on the success of 'Bring Your Dog to Work Day', some cat lovers felt left out and wanted a similar day dedicated to their feline companions. In 2002, cat lovers started unofficially celebrating 'Bring Your Cat to Work Day' alongside the dog-centric event. While there is no specific recorded origin for the term, it emerged as a playful counterpart to the existing day for dogs.

2000

Expanding the Concept

The success of 'National Bring Your Pet to Work Day' inspired further exploration of the concept. In 2000, a creative twist was introduced, leading to the birth of 'Take Your Cat to Work Day.' This new day aimed specifically at encouraging cat owners to bring their feline companions to the office, acknowledging the unique bond between cats and their owners.

2002

Widespread Recognition and Participation

By 2002, Take Your Cat to Work Day had gained significant recognition and participation across the United States. Many cat owners eagerly embraced the idea, taking their furry friends to their offices for a day of fun and companionship. The media also played a part in popularizing the event, leading to increased awareness and enthusiasm among cat lovers.

2002

Formal recognition of the day

In the year 2002, Take Your Cat to Work Day received formal recognition by the American Humane Society. This recognition helped solidify the day as an official observance and brought more attention to the benefits of having cats in the workplace, such as stress reduction and increased employee morale.

2005

Popularization of 'Take Your Cat to Work Day'

'Bring Your Cat to Work Day' gradually evolved into 'Take Your Cat to Work Day' over the years. This change in terminology allowed for greater flexibility, as not everyone has the luxury of physically bringing their cat to their workplace. 'Take Your Cat to Work Day' became a recognized and observed day to celebrate cats and their unique place in our lives, providing an opportunity to share the joy and humor of having a cat in the workplace.

2004

Corporate Participation and Special Events

In 2004, larger corporations and companies started embracing Take Your Cat to Work Day. Some companies organized designated events and activities to celebrate the day, encouraging employees to bring their cats along. These special events included cat-themed contests, parades, and even pet-friendly workspaces that were set up with comfortable beds and toys for the feline visitors.

2002

Growing popularity and recognition of 'Take Your Cat to Work Day.'

By 2002, 'Take Your Cat to Work Day' gained increasing recognition and participation. The press and media coverage helped spread the concept to a broader audience, and many cat lovers looked forward to this day every year. People shared heartwarming stories and photos of their cats in the office, creating a sense of community among cat owners and their peers.

2002

Increased Popularity and Participation

As the concept gained momentum, more companies and individuals started celebrating 'Take Your Cat to Work Day' each year. The day became an opportunity for cat lovers to showcase their affection for their furry friends at work, while also promoting a positive work environment.

2002

Expansion to include cats and other pets

Recognizing that not everyone owned a dog or preferred dogs, the concept of 'Take Your Cat to Work Day' was introduced in 2002 by the American Cat Association (ACA). This expansion allowed cat owners to participate in the workplace pet movement, creating a more inclusive environment for pet lovers. Over time, other organizations also joined in and expanded the event to include various types of pets.

2003

Positive Effects on Workplace Environment and Employee Morale

As more companies and organizations observed Take Your Cat to Work Day in 2003, the positive effects on workplace environment and employee morale became apparent. Studies showed that having cats around the office reduced stress and increased productivity. Cats were known for their calming presence and ability to create a sense of camaraderie among colleagues.

2005

Spreading Joy and Reducing Stress

By 2005, Take Your Cat to Work Day had gained significant traction. The event was celebrated by cat lovers all over the world, with employees bringing their cats to work and sharing adorable photos on social media. Studies had also shown that having cats in the workplace could help reduce stress levels and create a more relaxed and enjoyable work environment.

2006

Rise of Cat Cafés

The popularity of cats in the workplace was further fueled by the rise of cat cafés. Originating in Taiwan in the late 1990s, cat cafés spread across the world, combining the joy of pet ownership with the café culture. These unique establishments provided a space for people to enjoy a cup of coffee while interacting with resident cats. Cat cafés reinforced the idea that cats could be a source of comfort, relaxation, and companionship, making them welcome additions to the workplace.

2014

Expanding global participation

By 2014, Take Your Cat to Work Day had gained international recognition and participation. Cat lovers around the world began celebrating the day by bringing their feline friends to their workplaces, creating a fun and engaging atmosphere.

Present

Annual Tradition and Expanded Scope

Take Your Cat to Work Day has become an annual tradition observed on the Thursday following Father's Day in many countries. It has expanded beyond traditional office settings, with people bringing their cats to various workplaces, including schools, hospitals, and even retail stores. This day encourages people to embrace the joy and companionship that cats can bring to their lives and work environments.

2005

'Take Your Cat to Work Day' becomes an annual celebration.

In 2005, 'Take Your Cat to Work Day' was officially declared an annual event. It provided an opportunity for cat enthusiasts to bond with their pets and showcase the positive impact of cats in the workplace. This day also aimed to dispel myths and overcome negative perceptions about cats, highlighting their ability to reduce stress and create a more relaxed work environment.

2019

Recognition of National Take Your Cat to Work Day

In recent years, the concept of taking cats to work gained national recognition with the establishment of 'National Take Your Cat to Work Day'. Celebrated on the Monday following Father's Day in the United States, this day encourages cat owners to experience the benefits of having their furry companions by their side while working. It serves as a reminder of the positive impact that cats can have on the workplace environment, fostering happiness and reducing stress for both employees and employers.

2013

Expanding Beyond Workplaces

In 2013, the concept of Take Your Cat to Work Day started to expand beyond traditional workplaces. People began organizing cat-centric events, such as gatherings in parks or hosting cat-themed parties, where cat lovers could bring their furry companions. This expansion allowed more people to participate and celebrate the bond between humans and cats.

2011

Expanding Reach through Social Media

With the rise of social media platforms, Take Your Cat to Work Day received a significant boost in visibility and participation. Cat lovers around the world began sharing photos and stories of their furry co-workers, using hashtags like #CatAtWork and #TYCTWD to connect with others celebrating the day. The viral nature of social media helped spread the concept globally and attracted even more attention to the event.

2005

Awareness through media and social media

As the idea of taking your pet to work gained traction, media outlets and social media platforms began to cover the annual event extensively. This increased awareness and sparked conversations about the benefits of pets in the workplace, leading more companies to embrace the concept. Pictures and stories of pets in offices flooded social media feeds, generating positive publicity and encouraging further participation.

2005

Growing Internet Influence

With the rise of the internet and social media, 'Take Your Cat to Work Day' took on a life of its own online. Cat owners shared adorable pictures and stories of their cats in the workplace, creating a virtual celebration and fostering a sense of community among cat lovers worldwide.

Present

Continued recognition and social media presence

In the present day, 'Take Your Cat to Work Day' is celebrated on the same day as 'Bring Your Dog to Work Day' in various countries around the world. The holiday has gained significant recognition, with pet owners, businesses, and animal welfare organizations actively participating. Social media platforms play a crucial role in promoting 'Take Your Cat to Work Day', with cat enthusiasts sharing adorable pictures, videos, and stories of their feline friends in the workplace.

Present

Continued celebration and promotion

Take Your Cat to Work Day continues to be celebrated annually on the designated day, which falls on the following Monday after Father's Day. The day serves as an opportunity to promote the bond between humans and their cats while also increasing awareness about pet adoption and the positive impact of pets in the workplace.

Present

Continued Celebration and Impact

Today, Take Your Cat to Work Day is still celebrated every year on the same day, typically the Friday following Father's Day. It continues to promote cat adoption, raise awareness about the benefits of having cats in the workplace, and bring joy to both employees and cats alike. The day serves as a reminder of the positive impact that cats can have on our lives, whether at work or at home.

Present Day

Continued Celebration and Cat Welfare Advocacy

Today, Take Your Cat to Work Day is observed on the last Friday of June each year. It serves as a way for cat owners to enjoy the company of their feline companions while also promoting responsible pet ownership. Many organizations use the day to raise funds for cat shelters and rescue groups, emphasizing the importance of proper care, spaying/neutering, and adoption. The event continues to grow in popularity, spreading happiness and creating a positive work environment for cat lovers everywhere.

Present

Continued Observance and Cultivation of Feline Love

Today, 'Take Your Cat to Work Day' continues to be celebrated on the third Monday of June every year. It serves as a way to strengthen the bond between humans and their furry companions, promote happiness in the workplace, and raise awareness about the benefits of pet ownership. Cat lovers everywhere eagerly anticipate this day to share the joy and love of their feline friends with their colleagues and beyond.

Present

Annual celebration on June 25th

Today, 'Take Your Cat to Work Day' is celebrated annually on June 25th, providing an opportunity for cat owners to bring their feline friends into the office. The day serves as a reminder of the positive impact pets can have on the work environment, promoting a happier and more pet-friendly workplace culture.

Present

Continued celebration and global participation.

Today, 'Take Your Cat to Work Day' has grown beyond American borders and is celebrated globally. Many companies have embraced this day as an opportunity to promote pet-friendly policies and encourage a healthy work-life balance. It has become a way to bring joy, happiness, and laughter to the workplace while highlighting the incredible bond between humans and their feline companions.