Taiwan's first cat-friendly government office takes shape in New Taipei

台灣首棟貓友善政府辦公大樓在新北落成

Animal protection office redesign features ceiling catwalks and interaction zones


TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The New Taipei Animal Protection and Health Inspection Office announced Monday that it has completed a major renovation of its office space, transforming it into a pet-friendly environment designed to foster comfortable interactions between humans and animals.

Cats can now stroll above employees’ heads in a newly redesigned government office. The upgraded office features a ceiling-integrated “catwalk,” a three-dimensional playground made from sturdy wooden materials that allows cats to roam freely above the workspace.

According to the office, this is the first cat-friendly office design implemented by a government agency in Taiwan. The team will continue monitoring the use of the space, collecting feedback from staff and visitors, and making adjustments as needed to improve the experience.

The office stated that the catwalk offers a safe and engaging environment for feline residents, while also promoting a more dynamic and flexible workspace for employees. All design elements were carefully considered to ensure safety, including anti-slip, wear-resistant surfaces to prevent injuries.

The catwalk includes several transparent glass viewing panels, offering visitors a chance to watch cats explore, rest, or observe their surroundings from above, reflecting both the natural behaviors of cats and a commitment to their well-being.

The office has also established an interaction zone, providing a relaxed and safe space for people and cats to bond. The initiative is aimed at reducing stress, boosting morale, and enriching the overall work atmosphere.

The office also hopes this initiative will inspire more organizations to follow suit, turning pets into a delightful part of the workplace landscape and setting a model for human-animal coexistence.