The "cat tax" is an internet tradition: when you mention your cat, you're obligated to share a photo. But at CatNap, we've turned the cat tax into a productivity tool.
The Cortisol Connection
Research from Washington State University found that just 10 minutes of petting a cat significantly reduces cortisol, the stress hormone. Lower cortisol means better focus, clearer thinking, and improved decision-making.
When you're doom-scrolling, you're actually increasing cortisol (social comparison, FOMO, news anxiety). Swapping scroll time for cat time literally changes your brain chemistry.
The Break Effect
Studies on productivity consistently show that taking breaks improves focus. But not all breaks are equal. Checking social media during a break often leaves you more drained than before.
Petting your cat, on the other hand, provides genuine mental rest. It's a physical activity (standing up, moving, petting) combined with a calming stimulus (purring, soft fur).
The Habit Loop
Phone addiction operates on a habit loop: trigger → behavior → reward. The trigger is boredom or stress. The behavior is opening apps. The reward is dopamine hits from notifications and novelty.
CatNap hijacks this loop. The trigger (wanting to check your phone) leads to a new behavior (scanning your cat) with a better reward (pet bonding, reduced stress).
Why CatNap Works
Traditional screen time apps use negative reinforcement—guilt, timers, restrictions. This works short-term but often leads to frustration.
CatNap uses positive reinforcement. You're not being punished for wanting to use your phone; you're being rewarded with cat time.
Try the Cat Tax
Ready to trade screen time for cat time? CatNap is free to download. Block your distracting apps, and start paying the cat tax whenever you want to unlock them.