Despite RTO policies being actively implemented, remote work and virtual meetings are as common as never before. Considering their nature, they offer us a peek into colleagues‘ personal spaces, including surprise cameos by their pets. 

These unexpected „guests“ add charm to our daily work routines but can also present challenges. This guide provides a light-hearted look at introducing your pets on work calls and using these moments to foster connection and camaraderie.

Source: Unsplash

Why Introducing Your Pet Can Be a Good Idea

The phrase „All work and no play“ doesn’t apply to the world of virtual meetings, especially with our pets around. While we strive to sustain professionalism using a Zoom background maker from Vista Create and dressing properly for the call, introducing our pets can showcase a personal side, bridging gaps and fostering deeper connections with colleagues or clients.

Besides, not every virtual call starts with instant camaraderie. A cat lazily stretching behind you or a dog wagging its tail can easily lighten the mood, turning formality into a moment of shared amusement.

Finally, studies have shown the calming effect pets have on humans. Sharing this joy, even if momentarily, can reduce stress levels and elevate the overall mood of a meeting.

The Right Time to Introduce Your Pet

Like any introduction, timing is everything. Knowing when to let your pet grace the screen can make all the difference:

• Scheduled vs. Spontaneous Introductions: If it’s a casual team check-in or a session with close colleagues, a planned introduction can be delightful. For more formal meetings, it’s best to gauge the room before spontaneously bringing in your pet.
• Reading the Room: If the mood of the call is tense or there’s a serious discussion ongoing, it’s best to wait for a more relaxed moment or a lighthearted segue.
• Considering Cultural Sensitivities: Keep in mind that perceptions of pets vary worldwide. While some might adore the presence of your furry friend, others might not share the sentiment. Always be respectful of diverse attitudes.

Setting Up the Perfect Introduction

Introducing your pet during a virtual meeting requires a blend of spontaneity and planning. To begin with, it’s essential to make sure your pet is well-positioned within the camera frame. Whether they’re demonstrating a playful trick or simply lounging in the background, capturing their essence can add charm to the introduction. 

When you do decide to introduce your furry friend, keep it light and engaging. A quick story or a witty comment, such as mentioning how „Luna believes every video call is her personal screen time,“ can evoke smiles all around. 

However, as delightful as these moments can be, it’s important to strike a balance. Keeping the introduction brief ensures that the main focus remains on the meeting’s primary purpose, allowing for a seamless transition back to the agenda at hand.

Training Your Pet for Virtual Meetings

Having a pet that understands the virtual workspace’s dynamics can be an asset. It can minimize disruptions and also allow for those delightful appearances that everyone looks forward to:

• Setting Boundaries: Just as kids sometimes need guidance on when it’s okay to interrupt a parent on a call, pets can benefit from understanding boundaries. Training them to recognize when they can approach and when they should wait can be achieved with consistent cues and routines.
• Rewards System: Positive reinforcement can work wonders. If your pet patiently waits or behaves well during a call, rewarding them with a treat or some playtime afterward can reinforce this good behavior.
• Creating a Distraction-Free Zone: Sometimes, the best strategy is to engage them elsewhere. Setting up a space with their favorite toys or a treat-dispensing gadget can keep them occupied while you’re busy.

Source: Unsplash

Addressing Unplanned Pet Interruptions

Even with the best preparations, pets have a way of reminding us that they don’t always adhere to our plans:

Apologizing Gracefully

If your cat suddenly decides to walk across your keyboard or your dog barks at an inopportune moment, a simple and light-hearted apology can suffice. „Looks like Max wanted to share his opinion too!“ can turn an unexpected interruption into a moment of levity.

Using it as a Conversation Starter

If the situation allows, use the interruption to break the ice. „That’s Bella making her daily cameo. Do any of you have pets who love the spotlight?“ Such moments can ease tensions and make virtual meetings more personable.

Preventing Future Interruptions

If unplanned appearances become frequent, consider strategies to reduce them, like setting up a play area away from your workspace or scheduling calls around your pet’s nap or feeding times.

Indulge your feline companion with a cat-approved dining experience inspired by the traditional Japanese bento box. Our Bento Box cat meal is specially crafted to provide a delicious feast for your beloved cat, featuring a combination of premium ingredients including Sockeye Salmon, Hydrolyzed Soy Sauce, Sweet Potato, Hard-Boiled Egg, and Ginger Root. 

Top 5 Benefits of the Bento Box:

1) Suitable for All Life Stages:

Whether you have a playful kitten, an energetic adult cat, or a wise senior, our Bento Box cat meal is formulated to meet the nutritional needs of cats at every life stage. This ensures that your feline friend receives the right balance of nutrients for optimal health and vitality.

2) High Protein, High Fat, Low Carb:

Although our Bento Box features a range of ingredients, all with varying nutritional benefits for your cats, we have focused this recipe on replicating the macronutrient distribution you would find in a cats’ typical prey! Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they thrive on a diet high in animal-based protein and fat. Our Bento Box recipe is high protein and fat and low carbohydrate, with the essential nutrients they need to thrive.

3) Supports a Healthy Gut:

The inclusion of ginger root in our Bento Box meal offers numerous benefits for your cat’s digestive health. Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties in humans and can help soothe an upset stomach. Salmon is a fatty fish known for its high EPA and DHA content; two fatty acids well documented to have anti-inflammatory benefits! Additionally, this recipe, while low in carbs, is high in fibre to support a healthy gut and aid in proper digestion. All together this recipe may be suitable for cats with sensitive stomachs to support a healthy gut!

4) Supports a Healthy Immune System:

A strong immune system is essential for your cat’s overall well-being. Our Bento Box meal contains essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E and taurine, which are known for their immune-boosting properties. Ginger root may also have a role in supporting a healthy immune system due to its antioxidant properties! These nutrients help keep your feline friend healthy and resilient.

5) Weight Conscious:

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for your cat’s well-being. The Bento Box recipe is thoughtfully crafted with evidence-based ingredients like choline and sulfur amino acids that support weight management and may promote a lean body condition in cats.

Beneficial Ingredients You’ll Find in Our Bento Box:

1) Sockeye Salmon: As an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, Sockeye Salmon helps support your cat’s muscle development, cognitive function, and promotes a healthy coat.

2) Sweet Potato: Sweet potatoes are a nutritious and easily digestible source of carbohydrates that provide energy for your cat’s daily activities.

3) Hard-Boiled Egg: Eggs are a great source of high-quality protein, essential amino acids, and vitamins, contributing to your cat’s overall health and vitality.

4) Ginger Root: Ginger root’s anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe your cat’s digestive system and reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.

Our Bento Box cat meal is a delightful and nutritionally balanced option for your feline friend’s dining pleasure. From supporting a healthy gut and immune system to promoting weight management and skin and coat health, this recipe is designed to cater to your cat’s specific nutritional needs. Give your cat the sushi date night experience they deserve with our Bento Box meal, and watch them revel in the joy of every delicious bite. Remember to consult with your veterinarian to ensure our Bento Box meal is the perfect match for your cat’s individual dietary requirements.

See our other gently cooked meals for cats here. 

Ready to start your cat on healthy, gently cooked food? Start your cat food subscription today. 

Written by: Hannah Godfrey
Animal Nutritionist
BSc.H. | MSc. Animal Nutrition
www.tomandsawyer.com 

References

Case L.P. et al. Canine and Feline Nutrition: A resource for companion animal professionals 3rd ed. May 19, 2010.

Burkholder WJ, Toll PW. Obesity. In: Hand MS, Thatcher CD, Reimillard RL, Roudebush P, Morris ML, Novotny BJ. editors. Small animal clinical nutrition, 4th edition. Topeka, KS: Mark Morris Institute. 2000.

National Research Council. (2006). Nutrient requirements of dogs and cats. Washington, DC. The National Academies Press. 

Ranovic et al. (2022) Dose-response relationship between dietary choline and serum lipid profile, energy expenditure, and respiratory quotient in overweight adult cats fed at maintenance energy requirements, J Anim Sc, 100(7).  https://academic.oup.com/jas/article-abstract/100/7/skac202/6596195 

Gupta et al. Nutraceuticals in veterinary medicine. Cham, Switzerland: Springer; 2019 May 21.

Pasad & Tyagi. Ginger and its constituents: Role in prevention and treatment of gastrointestinal cancer. Gastroenterol Res Pract, 2015; doi:10.1155/2015/142979

Godfrey et al. (2022) Dietary choline in gonadectomized kittens improved food intake and body composition but not satiety, serum lipids, or energy expenditure. PLOSONE  https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0264321 

Platinga et al. (2011) Estimation of the dietary nutrient profile of free-roaming feral cats: possible implications for nutrition of domestic cats. Brit J Nutr. 106(S1). https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/british-journal-of-nutrition/article/estimation-of-the-dietary-nutrient-profile-of-freeroaming-feral-cats-possible-implications-for-nutrition-of-domestic-cats/2E0E827469FFC1AF51387E045C06759A 

Indulge your senior feline companion with our Chicken Cacciatore cat meal. Inspired by the tastes of Italy, and derived from the Italian term „Cacciatore,“ meaning „hunter,“ this recipe pays homage to the ancestral hunting prowess of our feline friends. This recipe is a complete and balanced cozy combination of Italian flavours, including chicken, tomatoes, and potatoes to create a delicious and nutritious dining experience. We are excited to share the key benefits of our Chicken Cacciatore recipe that will keep your senior cat purring with satisfaction.

Top Benefits of Chicken Cacciatore

1) Low Fat, High Protein:

Like the agile hunters of the wild, senior cats need a diet that supports their muscles, energy levels, and their changing nutritional needs. Our Chicken Cacciatore cat meal is thoughtfully formulated with a low-fat content and high protein levels to help maintain muscle mass and support overall health in your aging feline friend.

2) Supports Healthy Aging:

Embracing the golden years doesn’t mean slowing down. Our Chicken Cacciatore recipe is designed to meet the evolving nutritional needs of senior cats, offering low sodium and phosphorus content to promote healthy kidney function. The optimal protein-to-fat ratio aids in maintaining muscle mass and supporting a healthy weight.

3) Antioxidant-Rich Ingredients:

Just like the sharp senses of a hunter, antioxidants are crucial for your cat’s well-being. Our Chicken Cacciatore meal includes ingredients like tomatoes and omega-3 fish oil, which are rich in antioxidants such as lycopene and omega-3 fatty acids. These antioxidants shield cells from damage and contribute to your cat’s youthful vitality.

4) High Moisture Content for Hydration:

Senior cats are prone to dehydration, which can lead to various health issues. Our Chicken Cacciatore recipe boasts a high moisture content, promoting hydration and supporting healthy kidney and urinary functions in senior cats.

5) Tailored to Picky Eaters:

We understand that senior cats can be discerning when it comes to their food. Our Chicken Cacciatore meal is crafted to be highly palatable, ensuring that even the pickiest of eaters will relish every bite and receive the necessary nutrients.

Beneficial Ingredients You’ll Find in the Chicken Cacciatore Dish:

1) Chicken & Giblets: A homage to the hunters’ prey, we use chicken breast, liver, and heart to provide an excellent source of lean protein, essential for maintaining muscle mass and promoting overall health in senior cats. By using the “giblets” we cater to a hunter’s instincts and provide many essential vitamins and minerals! 

2) Pureed Tomatoes: Tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that supports cell health and has potential anti-aging benefits for your senior cat.

3) Russet Potatoes: Russet potatoes are a nutritious source of complex carbohydrates, providing energy and essential nutrients for your cat’s daily activities and supporting the microbiome.

4) Omega-3 Fish Oil (Anchovy): Omega-3 fatty acids contribute to skin and coat health, support joint mobility, and have anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit senior cats.

Invite your senior cat to experience the tastes of Italy with our Chicken Cacciatore cat meal. Inspired by the hunting spirit and designed to meet the nutritional needs of senior cats, this recipe invigorates their inner hunter, keeping them youthful and spirited. Elevate your cat’s dining experience with the flavors and nourishment of our Chicken Cacciatore meal. 

Consult with your veterinarian to ensure it aligns perfectly with your cat’s individual dietary requirements, so they can thrive like the agile hunters they are at heart.

See our other gently cooked meals for cats here. 

Ready to start your cat on healthy, gently cooked food? Start your cat food subscription today. 

Written by: Hannah Godfrey
Animal Nutritionist
BSc.H. | MSc. Animal Nutrition
www.tomandsawyer.com 

References

Case L.P. et al. Canine and Feline Nutrition: A resource for companion animal professionals 3rd ed. May 19, 2010.

Burkholder WJ, Toll PW. Obesity. In: Hand MS, Thatcher CD, Reimillard RL, Roudebush P, Morris ML, Novotny BJ. editors. Small animal clinical nutrition, 4th edition. Topeka, KS: Mark Morris Institute. 2000.

National Research Council. (2006). Nutrient requirements of dogs and cats. Washington, DC. The National Academies Press. 

Gupta et al. Nutraceuticals in veterinary medicine. Cham, Switzerland: Springer; 2019 May 21.

Saini et al. Protective effects of lycopene in cancer, cardiovascular, and neurodegenerative diseases: An update on epidemiological and mechanistic perspective. Pharmacol Res, 2020; 155.

Platinga et al. (2011) Estimation of the dietary nutrient profile of free-roaming feral cats: possible implications for nutrition of domestic cats. Brit J Nutr. 106(S1). https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/british-journal-of-nutrition/article/estimation-of-the-dietary-nutrient-profile-of-freeroaming-feral-cats-possible-implications-for-nutrition-of-domestic-cats/2E0E827469FFC1AF51387E045C06759A 

Verbrugghe A. et al. (2017) Cats and Carbohydrates: The Carnivore Fantasy? Vet Sci. 4(4). https://www.mdpi.com/2306-7381/4/4/55/htm?ref=bark-whiskers 

Laflamme D. (2012) Nutritional Care for Aging Cats and Dogs. Vet Clin Sm Anim Prac. 42(4).   https://www.vetsmall.theclinics.com/article/S0195-5616(12)00066-6/fulltext 

Embark on a culinary journey to the untamed Wild West with our innovative Wild West Kangaroo (limited ingredient) cat meal. Crafted with care, this recipe is a testament to our commitment to providing tailored nutrition for cats with specific dietary needs. We can’t wait to introduce you to the Wild West Kangaroo recipe, a blend of mouth-watering flavours and nourishing ingredients designed to cater to allergies and gut health concerns of our feline companions.

Top 5 Benefits of the Wild West Kangaroo Meal for Cats:

1) Allergy-Friendly Formula:

Just like us, cats can develop food allergies, specifically to common protein sources. Cats with allergies deserve a meal that brings them relief and delight. The Wild West Kangaroo recipe features kangaroo, a novel protein source, which reduces the likelihood of triggering allergies caused by more common proteins. Further, this is a limited ingredient recipe with maximum benefits. This approach minimizes the chances of allergic reactions and makes it easier for cats to digest and enjoy their food.

2) Palatability Redefined:

Step into the shoes of a true trailblazer with the Wild West Kangaroo cat meal, where lean kangaroo meat meets cat-approved complementary flavours. The umami-rich taste profile is bound to tantalize your cat’s taste buds, ensuring they gallop towards their bowl every mealtime.

3) Fibre and Healthy Fats for Digestive Health:

A healthy gut is pivotal to your cat’s overall well-being. With pumpkin and coconut milk, our Wild West Kangaroo recipe provides a blend of healthy fats and dietary fibre that support digestive health. These ingredients aid in promoting regular bowel movements and maintaining a happy tummy.

4) Cranberries for Urinary Support:

Cranberries are not just a treat for the taste buds; they may also support urinary health in cats. Cranberries are high in proanthocyanin, an antioxidant, and polyphenols. These help to prevent urinary tract infections by eliminating the ability for bacteria to stick to the urinary tract wall. The addition of cranberries adds a touch of tartness while contributing to maintaining a healthy urinary tract.

5) All Life Stages Option:

Catering to the diverse needs of cats across different life stages, the Wild West Kangaroo recipe stands as a versatile option suitable for cats of all ages. Whether you have a kitten, adult, or senior cat, this recipe ensures they receive balanced nutrition throughout their journey.

Beneficial Ingredients You’ll Find in Our Wild West Kangaroo:

1) Kangaroo: Kangaroo meat provides high-quality, lean, protein without common allergens, making it an excellent and novel choice for cats with sensitivities.

2) Pumpkin: Pumpkin offers dietary fibre that aids in digestion and supports a healthy gut, contributing to optimal digestive functions.

3) Coconut Milk: Rich in healthy fats, coconut milk adds a creamy, palatable texture to the meal while providing essential nutrients that promote overall well-being.

4) Hydrolyzed Soy Sauce: Using a hydrolyzed soy sauce reduces allergy-risks and provides that umami flavour cats love!

5) Cranberries: Cranberries bring a burst of flavour and contribute to maintaining a healthy urinary tract.

Elevate your cat’s mealtime experience with the unique flavours and wholesome nourishment of our Wild West Kangaroo cat meal. From the untamed landscapes of the Wild West to the comfort of your home, this recipe embodies the spirit of adventure while addressing the specific dietary needs of cats with allergies and gut health concerns.

We recommend consulting with your veterinarian to determine if the Wild West Kangaroo recipe aligns with your cat’s individual dietary requirements, allergies, health status, and to provide them with a meal that speaks to their inner trailblazer, keeping them healthy and satisfied.

See our other gently cooked meals for cats here. 

Ready to start your cat on healthy, gently cooked food? Start your cat food subscription today. 

Written by: Hannah Godfrey
Animal Nutritionist
BSc.H. | MSc. Animal Nutrition
www.tomandsawyer.com 

References

Verlinden A. et al. (2006) Food allergies in dogs and cats: a review. Crit. Rev. Food. Sci. Nutr. 46(3):259-273. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10408390591001117?casa_token=jZu5J8946zsAAAAA%3AIDTifjo6-6fR2UOlUI0dNzAKgqXOMmH9buLRcLIdfd6WNaBro8HgnopJFsiUMxECjDaUNBs4TRYaPwA 

Case L.P. et al. Canine and Feline Nutrition: A resource for companion animal professionals 3rd ed. May 19, 2010.

National Research Council. (2006). Nutrient requirements of dogs and cats. Washington, DC. The National Academies Press. 

Gupta et al. Nutraceuticals in veterinary medicine. Cham, Switzerland: Springer; 2019 May 21.

Mayot G. et al. (2018) Inhibition of adhesion of uropathogenic escherichia coli to canine and feline uroepithelial cells by an extract from cranberry. J Microbiol Biotech Food Sci. doi: 10.15414/jmbfs.2018.7.4.404-406