Working Cats: A Brief History of Human-Feline Partnerships
From The Observatory
Cats have shared human spaces for thousands of years, acting as both companions and skilled hunters. The domestic cat, Felis catus, evolved from wild African ancestors to live alongside people, thriving in settlements where food and rodents were plentiful. By hunting mice and rats, cats protected food stores, buildings, and human health, giving societies that welcomed them a clear advantage.
Cats also became cultural icons. Their independence, hunting skill, and maternal care inspired myths, art, and traditions. In the Middle Ages, their pest-control abilities were so valued that laws sometimes guaranteed their performance—like in Wales, where a buyer could demand a refund if a cat failed to catch mice. Distilleries and breweries became natural workplaces for cats, starting with early Irish whiskey makers. Some cats became famous for their skills, including Towser the Mouser in Scotland, who caught nearly 30,000 mice in her lifetime.
In the United States, working cats were once common in businesses but declined due to health regulations. Programs like Hard Hat Cats now bring cats back into workplaces, providing food, shelter, and care while letting them act naturally. Cats like Harold and Maude at Kings County Distillery in Brooklyn demonstrate that working environments can help cats who might otherwise struggle in homes or shelters. They gain confidence and form relationships with humans on their own terms.
Critics sometimes argue that cats are either ineffective or harmful as predators, but historical evidence and modern programs show that cats are successful pest controllers. Beyond their practical work, cats add warmth, character, and enjoyment to human spaces. By reintroducing cats into workplaces, humans honor their natural instincts and continue a partnership that has lasted thousands of years, benefiting both species physically, emotionally, and culturally.
🔭 This summary was human-edited with AI-assist.
