A Japanese IT company called FARLEY permits employees to bring their cats to the office to foster a more communicative work environment [1].
This pet-co-working policy serves as a unique recruitment tool and a method to improve workplace morale in a high-pressure industry. By integrating pets into the professional space, the company distinguishes itself from traditional corporate environments in Japan.
The practice began 26 years ago [1]. Hidesuke Fukuda, a company representative, said the policy started when a founding member brought their cat into the office as a half-playful experiment [1]. The company was founded in 2000 [1].
To facilitate interaction, the firm utilizes a “cat chatroom” to streamline communication among staff [1]. This environment has attracted new talent seeking non-traditional workplaces. New employee Momoka Kosaka said she wanted to work at a company with distinct characteristics, and the ability to bring cats to work matched her interests [1].
Some employees have integrated their pets into their entire professional journey. Employee Makiko Hosokawa said her cat has been with her for 14 years [1]. She said that when she first began bringing the cat to the office, she was still feeding it milk [1].
During recent observations, two cats were present at the office [1]. The firm continues to maintain this system as a core part of its organizational culture, balancing technical IT work with the presence of animals to reduce stress and build social bonds among the team [1].
“The pet-co-working policy was introduced 26 years ago.”
FARLEY's long-term adoption of pet-friendly policies reflects a broader shift in some Japanese sectors toward 'wellness' and flexible workplace cultures. By prioritizing employee emotional well-being and personal interests, the company creates a competitive advantage in the talent market for IT professionals who may be deterred by the rigid hierarchy of traditional Japanese firms.
