Cats in the Workplace: In Japan, Cats Are Put to Work

In Japan, some companies have cats in the workplace. We'll tell you how cats can help reduce anxiety and stress!
Cats in the Workplace: In Japan, Cats Are Put to Work

Last update: 15 May, 2020

Animals are great company and have been used in many industries in the past. However, until now, cats haven’t been used commonly in the workplace. But now, in Japan, cats are being put to work. In this article, we’ll tell you about how the Japanese are using cats in the workplace.

Cats in the workplace in Japan

More and more Japanese companies are giving cats work due to the benefits they offer to employees. Based on research and studies, cats reduce stress and anxiety in offices.

However, this isn’t just a “take your pet to work” day. Instead, employers are hiring cats to lower office stress levels. In certain companies, you can enjoy the “purr therapy” of having cats in the workplace.

These four-legged little therapists bring calm energy, peace, and create a little fun for employees. They make people feel more relaxed, which actually helps increase productivity! In Japan, the workplace is very demanding, with long hours and clear hierarchies. Many employees suffer the consequences of stress and pressure in the workplace.

Experts show that cats in the workplace have many benefits, as long as the cats have docile personalities and get along with people well.

While some companies allow employees to bring their own pets into the office, this doesn’t offer the same benefits. Some cats are very territorial animals and are sensitive to changes in the environment, as well as being surrounded by lots of strangers.

Cats in the workplace can help lower employees' stress levels.

On the other hand, if a cat lives in the office from a young age and is used to sharing the space with many people (and other cats), this can be beneficial to the workplace.

Best of all, in these cases, the animal doesn’t suffer from living in a workplace. Instead, they enjoy their time with their “family.” These cats are better able to be sociable, unfrightened by new people, and are more adaptable. Moreover, they don’t have problems being alone at night or at weekends. They’re ready to greet people as they arrive at work in the mornings!

Why are cats the best option?

Cats have characteristics that no other animal has. For example, cats give off special energy. They are calm and offer cat-lovers a lot of peace. Some people believe that cats are good at removing “bad spirits” or negative vibes from certain spaces. Additionally, cats are also very sensitive and can detect when something is wrong with someone.

For all these reasons, cats have become the best furry therapists. With their presence, they help people who are feeling lonely, depressed, or stressed. Also, since people adore cats in Japan, it’s not hard to figure out why cats in the workplace have become a new trend.

Ferray, pioneer of cats in the workplace

One of the first firms to take a chance on “purr therapy” was Ferray, a computing company. According to company executives, the results have been more than satisfactory. The cats have greatly reduced employees’ anxiety and stress. 

A cat asleep on a desk.

Company director, Hidenobu Fukuda, introduced the “cats in the workplace” policy a few years ago. The company also offers money to people who want to adopt the cat and take it home.

Giving and receiving physical affection is very important for human beings. Physical affection relaxes us, allows us to disconnect and forget about our worries. Also, the purring of a cat actually helps people feel more balanced due to the vibrations.

The good news is that the cats also benefit. By purring, they release endorphins, which help create a feeling of well-being.


This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.