From the Street to Avia's C-Suite: Meet the Office Cats Behind the Mobile Gaming Magic

Founded in 2017 by Vickie Chen and Ping Wang in Mountain View, California, Avia (originally Avia Games) has become a global leader in mobile gaming. The company offers over 15 popular skill-based games, including its flagship games Bingo Tour, Bingo Clash, Solitaire Clash, and 8 Ball Strike. From day one, the company has prioritized creating an inclusive space for players. Avia’s HQ is home to two beloved office cats, TangTang and Jia Bao—rescued and adopted by employees to give them a new beginning.

At Avia, teamwork goes beyond business decisions and even extends to adopting new furry team members. After a company-wide vote, the team welcomed two rescued cats as their official Chief Feline Officers (CFOs), TangTang and Jia Bao.

“Many of our employees love animals and have pets of their own, so we took a company-wide vote among all employees who collectively decided to adopt them and let them share our workspace,” Vickie Chen, CEO of Avia, told Fortune.

The pair was adopted from the Bao Shanyuan Charity Organization, a nonprofit dedicated to rescuing cats and giving them a safe home. At Avia, employees take turns caring for the cats, following a volunteer schedule to ensure TangTang and Jia Bao are loved and well taken care of. On weekends, the cleaning staff even lend a hand to keep them comfy.

More than just office pets, TangTang and Jia Bao have become an inseparable part of Avia’s culture. Their unique personalities and lovable quirks bring daily joy and warmth to the team.

With only one eye, I could easily dress up as a pirate for Halloween, but I don’t need a costume because I’m already the captain of my own ship. When Bao Shanyuan rescued me in Tangshan, I had a badly injured eye. The next day, the medical team removed it, giving me a fresh start. I didn't let this physical setback ruin my spirit and sparkling personality. Every day, I rub against the door to greet my humans, making sure they know I’m ready for attention.

My colleagues would describe me as a laid-back, chubby British Shorthair with a calm demeanor. I understand basic commands, play gently, and never get aggressive. Some say having just one eye makes me different— I say it makes me unforgettable. Even though adoptive families often pass me by, Avia didn’t hesitate. They saw me for who I am: a lovable cat ready for a home.

And I couldn't have been welcomed in by a better home.

When I was rescued, my mouth hurt so much that eating was a struggle. The humans said I had stomatitis, a condition that made my gums swollen and painful. To help me, they removed my teeth. It sounds extreme, but it made all the difference. Now, I eat just fine and stay strong and healthy.

I love people more than anything. If there’s a lap nearby, I’ll find my way onto it. Snuggling is my specialty, and I’ve been told I have a charm rating of 100 percent. I don’t know what that means, but I do know that when I curl up next to someone, they always smile.

They say I’m more than just a cat. I’m a cuddle expert, a professional at making humans feel loved. And now, I finally have a family of my own.

Avia’s employees were excited to welcome the cats, and the cats quickly settled into their new home. By adopting them, Avia has shown its love for both gaming and animals. Having office pets creates a fun, positive vibe in the workplace while reflecting Avia’s commitment to employee happiness and creative thinking.

The company even conducted an office survey about the cats, revealing their positive impact on employees. Key findings include:

• 65% of employees felt a change in work-related stress after interacting with TangTang and Jia Bao.

• 76.5% believe the office cats have strengthened team cohesion.

• 71% are either already involved or interested in caring for the cats, demonstrating a strong sense of responsibility.

“It’s not only a boost to our company’s culture, it also shows our values of inclusivity and compassion, and provides employees with a shared responsibility,” Chen told Fortune.