What's With the Cat?

- An Explanation from Neil Schneider

When I first moved to Toronto from Montreal in January, 1996, I found myself working 7 day weeks with extremely long hours. To reward my long work days, I felt I needed a warmer reception than an empty apartment at the 11 o'clock hour. So, I decided to get a cat - and I must say, out of all the investments I've made over the years - Tuo-Té has to be the smartest.

Tuo-Té, which is Japanese for "Empty Hand" (symbolic of endless possibilities), is the overly friendly orange and white tabby you see on all the Neil Schneider Productions icons and promotional material. This kitten followed me wherever I went! When I was working late at night on an important project quotation, Tuo-Té would sleep on my computer monitor. When I would watch TV, Tuo-Té would sit on the back of my couch and watch alongside with me. Did I mention his ability to entertain guests at parties?

So, when deciding on a company icon, I figured if MGM could have their lion, I can have my cat! People often ask me what I did to make my cat talk and growl in the brochure pictures. Truth be told, I did nothing. He was just yawning - and I took some lucky camera shots. Now, several years later, I'm proud to say I have a successful business - and Tuo-Té still sleeps on my computer monitor, watches television, and entertains my guests.

Just between you and me, I think he's planning on buying me out!