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

I’ve been helping people with their cats for well over 30 years. It’s always been word of mouth. Often, the cat sitting included staying in the home as a house sitter as well. Using an app system is new for me.

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

I like being able to meet different cats(and people). I also enjoy the adventure of learning what each cat likes with regard to play, attention and general interactions. I currently have an senior rescue kitty. Prior to getting him, cat sitting was my “cat fix”, now, it’s my cat bonus time. I like people knowing their cat is in good hands.

Can you tell us about your favorite cat sitting reservation?

Honestly, this question is sort of similar to asking a parent who their favorite child is. Each cat has their own unique and lovely way of being. I’ve loved them all. I can certainly share my most interesting one. It was a last minute situation that required a great deal of finesse with finding a key, finding the cats (one was hiding under a deck under a securely fenced patio area and one was inside wondering where the other cat was). They’d been locked in and out of the home by the house cleaners. Everything worked out and the cats were happy to have my care.

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

I have one senior kitty that came to me when his owner passed away. His name is Simba. He’s a sweet kitty that was rescued from a feral colony. He’s a lovely snuggle bug.

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

My advice is to meet the cat sitter in advance, even if only via zoom. Ask tons of questions. For example, how much time will the sitter spend with your cat(s), what do they do in free time, how will they engage with the cat, what do they think their job is? It’s also crucial to provide all details you think are important. For example, how to care for your cat, how to engage the cat, how you want your home treated, provide all emergency information and share any quirky behaviors your cat might have. Taking the time to get to know the cat sitter, letting them get to know you and your cat(s) helps ensure success!

What is your typical process for working with a new cat parent?

Meeting the cat parent and the cat are typically my first steps. However, I’ve covered emergency jobs where the owner is already gone and in desperate need of coverage. I like to get all the details and expectations regarding caring for the cat. I like a tour of the cat’s spaces and habits.

How do you ensure the safety & security of the cats and the home while cat sitting?

I follow the cat parent’s lead regarding what they want done. They know their cat nest. I make sure I understand if the cat tends to want to escape so I can avoid any issues. I keep the house key in my pocket in order to never get locked out. Fir one job where I was helping transition an outdoor kitty to indoor, I used different doors to go in and out of the home. That approach allowed me to get in without needing to worry about the cat escaping.

Are you usually available during holidays?

Yes. I block off my space if not available. I typically like to stay out for holidays because it’s quieter around our area.

What is your favorite cat toy?

Currently, it is one Cakked Cat Dancer. It’s wire with rolled cardboard on the ends. Tissue paper is another favorite gir kitties. I bring these items with me. I use a new Cat Dsncer for each cat sit. That way there are no residual cat smells from other cats. That can be distressing for a cat. Any toy thst is safe is okay with me. I like to get creative to keep the cat engaged.

How do you handle cats that are particularly timid or anxious?

I give them room and allow them to approach me. With time, I usually find they allow me to pet them. A gentle voice and plenty of space tends to work well. I sit on the floor so I’m not towering over that cat.