What is your experience with cat sitting, and how long have you been doing it?

I have had cats all my life and am always happy to watch other people’s cats as well. I remember cat sitting for family friends as a kid and still remember those cats names from 30 some years ago. I kitty sat for several years for two cats here in Eagle River whenever their Mom traveled on weekends or out of state as she was in the Navy. I have also house sat for people in Valdez and Anchorage with both dogs and cats. I make sure to clean food and water bowls or fountains, scoop boxes, sweep, clean around food bowls, give catnip and treats, play and spend as much time as possible with each kitty so then don’t feel lonely. I look out for any health problems such as urinary blockages, constipation, diarrhea or URIs. I have been sitting for 25 years.

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

I currently have 4 cats: “Pooch” who is the senior kitty but still races around. We believe he is a Norwegian Forest Cat mix. He is huge, fluffy and regal. He has hyperthyroidism and gets medication daily. “Belle” is a dilute tortoise shell with a naturally bobbed tail. She might be an American Bobtail cat. Her tail is permanently kinked in a fluffy curl. She has feline asthma and we help her get her puff from the inhaler every day. “Sassafras” is our most recent rescue boy. He is a striking grey and black tabby with white feet and bib. “Tiberius” is our baby boy whom we rescued as a kitten. He is all black and very mischievous and energetic. I I have had five other wonderful cats over my lifetime.

What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a cat sitter?

I would always meet someone before hiring them to care for my cats. I would also want to make sure they had good reviews or references if I did not know them already. My cats are family and I would not be comfortable with a random stranger in my home and being responsible for my babies. I would want to know they are aware of common health issues in cats and also make sure they show interest in my cat’s personality and any health problems. If they don’t show interest or have any knowledge of these conditions they may not pay close attention when I am gone and notice signs of trouble. Cats are very good at hiding pain or illness so it important a cat sitter understands this and knows what to look for. Finally I would want to know they are a “cat person” who understands and appreciates cats.