We’ve heard of taking your dog to work, but taking your cat? And making it a national holiday? In the more than two decades since Take Your Dog To Work Day® was created (celebrated this year on June 21) the idea of bringing dogs to work has become more commonplace. So, it’s no wonder that more and more cat owners are wanting in on the fun! For those who want their feline friends to join in on the festivities, feel free to participate on Take Your Cat To Work Day® on Monday, June 17th. It’s the perfect kickoff to Take Your Pet To Work Week® and gives you and your cat time to take part in the fun before all of the dogs arrive.
But before you put your furry feline pal into the carrier and trot off to work, it’s important to follow some guidelines, to make sure it’s a fun day for everyone involved.
Get permission first. While your cat likely rules your house, you do need to get permission before participating in Take Your Cat To Work Day. Check with management and co-workers to see if anyone is allergic, afraid of or opposed to you bringing your cat to work on this special day. This is especially important because cat allergies are twice as common as dog allergies. Be respectful of those you work with and plan an alternate celebration, if necessary. Not able to bring your cat? Consider posting your cat’s picture in your office or cubicle, or even plan a funny cat video contest with your co-workers as another way to celebrate instead.
Decide if this is right for your cat. Cats are sensitive by nature and even minor changes in their environment can sometimes cause stress. But, that doesn’t mean that many cats don’t enjoy exploring new environments and meeting new people and pets. You know your cat best, so be sure your cat is comfortable being transported in a carrier and spending time at a different location before you decide to participate.
Keep your kitty comfortable. To make Take Your Cat To Work Day a success, don’t forget your kitty’s comforts of home. You’ll need your cat carrier, a food and water bowl and litter box, as well as a bed (or maybe box) your cat can use to relax or hide in and his or her toys.
Avoid forcing co-workers to interact with your cat. Remember, cat lovers will make themselves known, but you do need a way to keep your cat in your workspace unless management and co-workers have agreed to allow participating cats to roam freely. Even if they have agreed, be mindful that cats in new environments may hide—or escape—so keeping your cat close is your best option. This may mean keeping your office door closed, and then having your cat on a harness and leash when you allow him or her to explore your workplace.
Participate with a purpose. Just like with Take Your Dog To Work Day, the purpose behind Take Your Cat To Work Day is to highlight the wonderful companions these pets make and to promote their adoptions. Think of ways to give back to your pet community through your participation. Could you invite a local pet rescue or animal shelter to visit to show off cats available for adoption, or use your event as a way to raise funds for a local organization that helps cats looking for their forever homes?
Have an exit strategy. With pre-planning it’s likely that you and your cat will enjoy Take Your Cat To Work Day, but have a plan in place in case your cat shows signs of stress or decides she’s not interested in “working like a dog.” Take him or her home or plan in advance for your professional pet sitter to transport your cat home at a certain time. Never, under any circumstance, leave your pet alone in a vehicle while you work.
—
Photo Credit: New Africa / Shutterstock.com