If you work from home and own a cat, chances are your coworkers have met them—whether curled up on your keyboard, swatting at your webcam, or delivering a heartfelt meow in the middle of a presentation. But why do our feline friends insist on taking center stage during video calls?

Let’s unpack the mystery behind this fluffy behavior and explore how to work with (not against) your curious coworker.

😺 The Psychology of the Meeting-Crashing Cat

Cats are known for their independence, but they’re also deeply social animals, especially with their humans. Here are a few key reasons your cat might be photobombing your Zoom calls:

1. They’re Attracted to Attention

Cats are masters at observing patterns. If you’ve suddenly gone from cooing over them to talking animatedly at a glowing screen, they notice. Your cat wants in on that energy—and maybe suspects you're talking to them.

2. They Want Your Warm Lap (and Laptop)

Laptops are warm, just like your lap. That combination is cat nirvana. If you’ve noticed your cat perching directly on your keyboard, it’s not because they want to sabotage your workflow (well, probably). It’s just the coziest spot in the room.

3. You’re Their Routine—and You Changed It

Cats thrive on routine. When you’re suddenly seated in the same spot all day speaking to seemingly no one, they’re thrown off. Interrupting your meeting may be their way of saying: “Hey, you forgot my second breakfast.”

4. They’re Curious by Nature

Your cat doesn’t understand work-from-home boundaries. All they see is a box with blinking lights and your voice coming out of it. Of course they want to explore!

💡 How to Coexist Peacefully with Your Feline Coworker

Managing your cat during remote work doesn’t mean pushing them away, it’s about giving them options that satisfy their curiosity and need for connection.

🧸 Create a “Meeting Buddy” Perch

Set up a cozy perch or blanket near your workspace where they can lounge while still feeling included. A window perch is even better, they’ll feel in charge, and you get fewer tail swipes on camera.

🕹 Distract with Enrichment Toys

Before hopping on a long call, set your cat up with a puzzle feeder, treat-dispensing toy, or even a small cardboard box fortress. Mental stimulation can go a long way in curbing interruptive antics.

📅 Build In Scheduled Playtime

If your cat tends to act out during a 2 p.m. meeting every day, try a 10-minute play session at 1:45. A little exercise and attention can reduce their need to steal the spotlight.

🧶 Embrace the Cat Cameo

Let’s be real: we’ve all needed a moment of joy during a long workday, and sometimes a fuzzy tail waving across a webcam is just what the team needs. Some companies even have “Pet Cameo” Slack channels now!

If your cat’s determined to be part of the show, let them have a cameo now and then. They’ve earned their supporting role.

Final Thoughts

Your cat isn’t trying to sabotage your productivity, they’re just curious, loving, and craving connection (and maybe a warm laptop). Understanding their motivations can help you create a home office where both of you can thrive.

And remember: if your cat walks across your keyboard mid-pitch, just smile and say, “Apologies—our Chief Meowrketing Officer had an urgent message.”