Cats are popping up in all sorts of situations! You may see cat libraries that encourage cat adoption, cats attending school, or even cats while you’re fishing if you’re lucky! But one place that you should probably see them more frequently is in the office.
Cats don’t only bring joy at home, they can bring a lot of peace and happiness to the work environment, as well.
Here are five reasons why every business should have an official “office cat.”
1. An Office Cat Can Attract More Customers
Keeping an office cat in a retail shop can definitely draw in more customers.
For example, a car mechanic who has an “office cat” might have customers choosing to bring their cars to that business simply because they want to visit the cat.
A social cat in a jewelry store or a thrift shop might entertain customers if they have to wait in line.
Some business owners have even found that customers remember their cats’ names better than the shop owners’ names!
2. Office Cats Can Cut Down On Stress
A high-stress work environment could definitely benefit from having a friendly cat on site.
Petting a cat’s soft fur can reduce stress because it actually lowers your heart rate and your blood pressure. It can also cause your body to produce more oxytocin, which reduces the stress hormone cortisol.
If that’s not enough, petting a cat can reduce anxiety, too. An office with relaxed employees who aren’t stressed out is always more productive.
3. Excellent Tax Deduction And Public Relations Opportunity
Some businesses like to make charitable donations and give back to the community where they’re located. It’s an excellent public relations move, publicity opportunity and an important part of the tax year.
Having a cat on campus can help create these kinds of opportunities and help your office or business to raise money for the charity of your choice. A cat can be your unofficial mascot for fundraisers, especially for animal shelters and other charities for pets in need.
You could post photos of other available cats in the office break room or on a bulletin board for customers to see. Your customers will definitely remember you for caring.
4. Pest Control
Bugs, mice, rats and other pests are just a part of life in the city–or country for that matter
However, having an office cat on patrol will definitely help keep your office clear of any pests who might wander around after hours making a snack out of what’s left in a trashcan, on the kitchen counter or lunch break table.
5. You Are Providing A Home To A Cat Who Needs It
Shelters and rescues are full of cats who need homes. Knowing that you not only saved a life, but are now providing a loving home for that cat to flourish can be its own reward.
Adding an office cat to a business or company roster can be a great way to increase productivity, lift the mood, keep pests away, and provide publicity opportunities.
Not only might you see more customers showing up, but you’ll notice people getting along better and workplace relations improving. It’s also a great way to give a homeless cat a forever home.
Do you think your workplace should have an office cat? Are you more likely to visit a business that has a resident feline? Let us know in the comments below!
