National Take Your Cat to Work Day

National Take Your Cat to Work Day is observed on the Monday after Father’s Day. In 2026, this date falls on June 22. The day gives cat owners a playful reason to include their feline companions in the workday, when the workplace is safe, welcoming, and properly prepared. It also gives cats their own moment at the start of Take Your Pet to Work Week, before the dog-focused celebration later in the week. For many people, the day is less about novelty and more about responsible pet-friendly planning, animal companionship, and support for cat adoption. ^{1 2 3}

See also: National Cat Lady Day, Respect Your Cat Day, National Hug Your Cat Day, Happy Mew Year for Cats Day

History of National Take Your Cat to Work Day

National Take Your Cat to Work Day is connected with Pet Sitters International’s larger workplace-pet observances. PSI created Take Your Dog to Work Day in 1999 to celebrate the companionship dogs provide and to promote pet adoption. The broader Take Your Pet to Work Week later gave cat owners and people with other pets a way to participate, especially when a Friday dog-focused event was not a good fit. Take Your Cat to Work Day is placed at the beginning of that week, giving cats a quieter role before the busier end-of-week event.

The modern observance reflects the growing interest in pet-friendly workplaces, while also recognizing that cats are not small dogs. Many cats need calm spaces, familiar supplies, and a careful introduction to new surroundings. The day works best when owners consider the cat’s temperament, check workplace policies, and respect co-workers who may have allergies or concerns. When handled thoughtfully, it can be a cheerful office event with a practical animal-welfare message.

Why is National Take Your Cat to Work Day important?

National Take Your Cat to Work Day puts attention on the bond between people and their pets in a setting where pets are usually absent. A cat at work can start friendly conversations, add humor to an ordinary day, and remind people that companion animals are part of many employees’ daily lives. The observance also encourages workplaces to think carefully about pet policies instead of treating them casually. Good planning matters because a pet-friendly event should be safe for the animal, the owner, and everyone sharing the space.

The day also has a useful adoption angle. Cat-focused office events can highlight local shelters, rescue groups, and cats waiting for homes. Even people who cannot bring a cat to work can use the day to share adoptable-cat information, donate supplies, or support a rescue organization. That gives the holiday a purpose beyond cute photos and makes it more meaningful for the wider pet community.

• It recognizes cats as valued companions.
• It encourages careful pet-friendly workplace planning.
• It can support shelters and rescue groups.
• It reminds owners to consider a cat’s comfort first.
• It gives co-workers a lighthearted way to connect.

How to Celebrate National Take Your Cat to Work Day

Start by asking for permission before bringing a cat into any workplace. Check with management, building rules, and nearby co-workers, especially because allergies, fears, and shared-office policies can affect the plan. Bring a secure carrier, food, water, a litter box, familiar bedding, and a quiet place where the cat can retreat. A cat that dislikes travel, strangers, or noise should stay home, with a photo, video call, or desk picture standing in instead.

Use the day to do something helpful for cats beyond the office visit. Invite a local shelter to share adoption information, collect cat food or litter for a rescue group, or post about adoptable cats in the community. Remote teams can hold a short pet-photo break or a cat-themed fundraiser without putting any animal through an uncomfortable trip. The best celebrations keep the cat’s needs at the center, not the owner’s wish for attention.

• Ask your workplace before making plans.
• Pack familiar supplies from home.
• Keep your cat in a calm, secure area.
• Share adoptable cats from a local rescue.
• Skip the visit if your cat seems stressed.

National Take Your Cat to Work Day Dates

1. https://www.petsit.com/takeyourcat[↩]
2. https://www.petsit.com/take-your-pet-to-work-week[↩]
3. https://www.petsit.com/take-your-dog-to-work-day-history[↩]