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Cats may seem like masters of relaxation, but history proves they’ve been hard workers for centuries. From keeping rodent populations in check to sailing the seven seas and even going to space, kitties have earned their keep every step of the way.

One online community boasting 84K members is dedicated to sharing pics of cats all decked out in business attire and not a single kitty featured seems to be afraid of a hard day’s work. Here’s our collection of the cutest.

More info: Reddit

#1

Black and white cat held up, resembling business attire with its tuxedo-like fur pattern.

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Frances Pitchoune
Community Member
1 month ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's not from me, but I can't help but repeat it: "Put me down Sir! I'm the manager!"

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    #3

    Tuxedo cat in business attire, wearing a black bow tie, sitting confidently.

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    panther
    Community Member
    1 month ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Looks like a Matri'd at a fancy French restaurant, and you don't have a reservation.

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    Throughout history, cats have held various roles beyond just being cuddly companions. From ancient pest control to modern-day office mascots, felines have contributed to society in surprising ways. Taking our inspiration from the subreddit r/CatsInBusinessAttire (which showcases some seriously dapper cats), let’s explore some of the real jobs cats have taken on over the centuries.

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    One of the earliest recorded professions for cats was that of a pest exterminator. Ancient Egyptians revered the tiny hunters for their ability to put an end to rodents that threatened grain supplies. Their efficiency in keeping food stores safe led to their worship, with some even being mummified alongside their owners - talk about an employee appreciation program.

    #4

    Cat wearing business attire, featuring a white collar and black tie, sitting on carpet.

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    JK
    Community Member
    1 month ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That is what I would look like if I went to work one day and was told that I have been "promoted" to manager.

    #5

    Gray cat in business attire with a red and white bow tie, lounging on a gray couch, exuding a sophisticated look.

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    #6

    Fluffy cat wearing a business tie, looking surprised in a cozy indoor setting.

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    Jesse
    Community Member
    1 month ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    First day working for corporate and the impostor syndrome hits HARD

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    During the Age of Exploration, cats became essential crew members. Sailors kept them on board to control rat populations that could spread disease or damage food supplies. Some cats, like Simon of the HMS Amethyst, became naval legends. Simon even received the Dickin Medal for his service during the Chinese Civil War, proving that ship cats were more than just freeloading furballs.

    Cats have always been indispensable to farmers. By patrolling barns and grain storage areas, they kept rodent populations under control, putting an end to crop loss. Some farms still rely on working cats today, recognizing their natural hunting instincts as a form of eco-friendly, sustainable, and pesticide-free pest management.

    #7

    A cat in business attire with a suit and tie, sitting on a wooden floor, looking attentively forward.

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    Just Another Karen
    Community Member
    Premium
    1 month ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I imagine him on his yacht, drinking a martini, with a cigar, planning golf with his friends

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    #9

    Cats in business attire with ties and collars, sitting on a wooden floor.

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    Niels AirMax
    Community Member
    1 month ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    When your unruly (but beloved) colleague finally shows up! It's me btw... 😂

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    As books became widespread, libraries and bookstores adopted cats to protect their precious collections from mice. Probably the most famous example is Dewey Readmore Books, a cat who lived in the Spencer Public Library in Iowa. Dewey not only kept pests away but also won over bookworms with his adorable presence.

    Felines even found employment in railway stations and warehouses, where their pest control skills were second to none. The British Royal Mail had official “Post Office Cats” on payroll as late as the 1980s, while a Japanese cat named Tama went beyond pest control to become an honorary station master - complete with tiny hat. Who wouldn’t want to be greeted by a fluffy conductor on their morning commute?

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    In the digital age, cats have found new careers as influencers and celebrities. From fashion-forward felines to social media stars like Nala Cat and Grumpy Cat, these whiskered workers generate revenue through sponsorships and merchandise. Their ability to charm millions online has turned them into valuable brand ambassadors, redefining what it means to have a “working cat.”

    One gang of cats belonging to comedian Drennon Davis (who accidentally made them famous) have their own YouTube channel dedicated to their many business ideas and important days in the office - definitely worth a visit if you need a good chuckle.

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    #14

    Black cat in business attire, wearing a plaid tie and sitting on a kitchen counter.

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    Before you slip a tie on your kitty, you should probably check if it's okay with it. Bored Panda reached out to Scott Wendelberger from NOCO Humane to get his advice.

    Says Wendelberger, "To ensure your affection is welcome, pay close attention to the cat’s body language and surroundings. Are their eyes soft and squinty, or wide and intense? Is the environment calm and quiet, or loud and unpredictable?"

    "The answers to these questions can mean the difference between a purring companion and a spicy reaction. Context is key! Before reaching out, take in the cat’s entire posture—eyes, tail, ears, body, and mouth—and gauge their comfort level based on whether these signs of stress are present or not," concludes Wendelberger.

    Of course, we couldn’t end this list of kitty careers without mentioning Félicette, a stray Parisian cat that became the first feline launched into space on 18 October 1963 as part of the French space program - just goes to show a cat’s ambition is basically limitless. 

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    What do you think of the hardworking kitties in this list? Would you consider giving them a job if their CV crossed your desk? Upvote your favorites and don’t forget to leave a comment on the ones you found the cutest!

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    #29

    Cat in business attire, wearing a striped shirt and tie, sitting at a desk with a confident expression.

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    #31

    Tabby cat wearing a festive red bow tie, resembling business attire, on a carpeted floor.

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    #32

    A cat in business attire wearing a plaid bow tie sits confidently next to a "MAN BAR" box in a bathroom setting.

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    #33

    Cat wearing a floral bowtie in a business attire setting.

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    #34

    Black cat in business attire with orange bow tie, standing confidently indoors.

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    #35

    Two cats in business attire, wearing green neckties, sitting on a colorful rug in a cozy living room.

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    #36

    Two cats in business attire, each with bow ties, relaxing on a quilt.

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    #37

    Orange cat wearing a black bow tie, sitting on a table with festive decor and plants, embodying business attire.

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    #38

    Cat in a cardboard box wearing a stylish golden bow tie, looking curious and attentive.

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    #39

    Cat in business attire, wearing a striped tie, standing on a windowsill, gazing outside.

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    #40

    Orange tabby cat wearing a plaid bow tie, embodying business attire style.

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    #41

    A cat in a bathtub wearing a red bow tie, showcasing business attire for cats.

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    #42

    White cat wearing a blue bow tie sitting upright, exemplifying business attire in a cozy home setting.

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    #44

    Fluffy cat in business attire with a black tie, standing on shiny wooden floor.

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    Ic_polls

    Poll Question

    What role do you think your pet would excel at in a business?

    CEO. It'd accept nothing less.

    Box quality assurance manager

    Head of HR, ensuring team morale

    I think the only position my pet's cut out for is lead napper.