Per Watchcat Headquarters, it is always permissible for a watchcat to monitor his surroundings from his guardian's lap. This is perfectly sensible when a watchcat trusts his guardian more than anyone else:
2016: Watchcat Nemo, sitting on his guardian's, i.e. my brother's, lap. Nemo passed away today. Our entire family and Watchcat Headquarters salute him for his many years of commendable service.