National Take Your Cat to Work Day
June 22
About National Take Your Cat to Work Day
National Take Your Cat to Work Day takes place on Monday, 22 June 2026 and invites cat owners to bring their feline companions along to the workplace. Promoted by Pet Sitters International, the day opens Take Your Pet to Work Week and gives cats their moment before the dogs arrive later in the week. It celebrates the joy pets bring and the benefits of a pet-friendly workplace.
How to Celebrate National Take Your Cat to Work Day
Cats are sensitive to new surroundings, so the best celebrations balance fun with careful planning.
- Check your workplace policy first – Confirm that pets are welcome and that no colleagues have allergies before bringing your cat in.
- Pack the essentials – Bring a carrier, litter tray, water, food, and a familiar blanket to help your cat feel secure.
- Create a calm space – Set up a quiet corner where your cat can retreat if the office becomes overwhelming.
- Introduce slowly – Let colleagues meet your cat gently and on the cat’s terms to avoid stress.
- Celebrate from home – If your office is not suitable, mark the day by spending time with your cat during a work-from-home shift.
- Support cat charities – Use the day to donate to or share the work of feline rescues and shelters.
- Take some photos – Capture your cat exploring the workplace and share the moment with fellow cat lovers.
What is National Take Your Cat to Work Day?
National Take Your Cat to Work Day is an annual observance that encourages cat owners to share their working day with their pets. It highlights the companionship cats offer and the growing interest in pet-friendly workplaces. The day is enjoyed by cat lovers everywhere, whether they bring their cat into the office or simply celebrate at home.
When is National Take Your Cat to Work Day?
National Take Your Cat to Work Day falls on Monday, 22 June 2026. Pet Sitters International schedules it as the kickoff to Take Your Pet to Work Week, giving cats their own day at the start of the week before Take Your Dog to Work Day on the following Friday.
The History of National Take Your Cat to Work Day
The day grew out of Pet Sitters International’s wider Take Your Dog to Work Day campaign, which the organisation launched in 1999 to celebrate the bond between people and their pets and to encourage adoption. As interest in pet-friendly workplaces grew, the celebration expanded into a full Take Your Pet to Work Week, with space for cats and other animals.
Take Your Cat to Work Day was positioned at the start of that week, partly in recognition that cats need a gentler, quieter introduction to new environments than dogs. Scheduling it on the Monday gives owners time to settle their cats in before the busier, dog-focused end of the week.
The day reflects a broader shift towards workplaces that value employee wellbeing, where the presence of a beloved pet can ease stress and lift morale.
Fun Facts About National Take Your Cat to Work Day
- The day is organised by Pet Sitters International as part of Take Your Pet to Work Week.
- It is deliberately scheduled before Take Your Dog to Work Day later in the same week.
- The wider campaign began with Take Your Dog to Work Day in 1999.
- Cats generally need a quieter, slower introduction to new spaces than dogs.
- Studies have suggested that pets in the workplace can help reduce stress.
Why National Take Your Cat to Work Day Matters
The day shines a friendly light on the value of pet companionship and the benefits of more flexible, pet-friendly workplaces. It also encourages responsible ownership and supports rescue organisations. If you love celebrating cats, you might also enjoy National Internet Cat Day, another June favourite for feline fans.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is National Take Your Cat to Work Day?
It is an annual day encouraging cat owners to bring their pets to work, organised by Pet Sitters International as part of Take Your Pet to Work Week.
When is National Take Your Cat to Work Day in 2026?
It takes place on Monday, 22 June 2026.
What should I bring if I take my cat to work?
Pack a carrier, litter tray, food, water, and a familiar blanket, and set up a quiet space where your cat can relax away from the bustle.
Spread the Word
Join the celebration and share your office cat photos on social media with #TakeYourCatToWorkDay and #TakeYourCatToWorkDay2026. Tag your fellow cat lovers and challenge them to make their workplace more feline-friendly!
Related Awareness Days
- National Internet Cat Day – A celebration of the cats that brighten our screens and feeds.
- National Garfield the Cat Day – A tribute to the world’s most famous comic-strip cat.
- National Kitten Day – A day dedicated to kittens and encouraging adoption.
Links
Featured image: Photo by Lei Hwang on Unsplash.
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