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

I have over 35 years of experience caring for cats, including my own cats and those of friends and neighbors. I have had cats since childhood and currently have two of my own. For decades, I have been the trusted person in my community to care for cats when families travel. I am known for being responsible, attentive, and reliable, and I’m happy to provide testimonials upon request.

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

What I enjoy most about cat sitting is getting to know each cat as an individual. Every single cat is different — even cats that look alike have completely unique personalities. I truly love discovering what makes each cat special. I enjoy learning what they like, how they prefer to play, how they communicate, and what helps them feel safe. Some cats are outgoing and playful right away, while others are shy and cautious. I especially cherish the gentle process of earning a shy cat’s trust — sitting patiently, speaking softly, and allowing them to approach in their own time. There is something very beautiful about the moment a shy cat finally relaxes, sniffs your hand, or meows at you for the first time. That trust feels earned and meaningful. Building a relationship with each cat, even over a short period of time, is what brings me the most joy. Playtime, connection, and

Can you tell us about your favorite cat sitting reservation?

One of my favorite cat sitting experiences was caring for a home with three cats — two bonded brothers and one independent female cat who needed her own separate space. Because one of the boys didn’t fully accept her, they couldn’t safely share the same areas. The owner asked if I could gently rotate them so each cat could enjoy time on the balcony and different spaces in the home. This required thoughtful coordination and calm transitions. I used patience, soft guidance, and sometimes treats to move them safely without creating tension. At first, it took careful planning and close attention to doors and timing. But over time, I learned each cat’s personality and rhythm. The brothers were playful and confident, while the female cat was more sensitive and observant. Once I understood their individual temperaments, the rotations became smooth and stress-free. What meant the most to me was seeing each of them

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

Misha (11) and Kiku (11) both are adorable super healthy Siberian cats. I cook for them daily. I play with them several times a day.

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

When looking for a cat sitter, I think the most important thing is finding someone who is truly ethical, responsible, and genuinely cares about animals. Cats are sensitive little beings, and they can tell when someone is calm, patient, and kind with them. Good communication is also really important. A reliable sitter should keep you updated, respond to messages, and let you know how your cat is doing while you’re away. It gives pet parents peace of mind. And finally, I think it helps to choose someone who pays attention to the small details—your cat’s personality, routines, and comfort. Every cat is different, so having a sitter who respects that and takes the time to understand them makes a big difference.

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

When working with a new cat family, I like to meet first so we can get to know each other. It helps both you and your cat feel comfortable before the sitting begins. We can talk about your cat’s personality, routines, and any special needs. I encourage cat parents to share as many details as possible. It’s helpful to know things like your cat’s favorite spots, where toys are kept, grooming routines, and where I can find brushes or combs. I also like to know if there are parts of your cat’s body they don’t like being touched. Food routines are important too. Normally food is provided, but if your cat has a special meal routine, the more details the better. Some parents even send a quick video of how they prepare their cat’s food so I can follow it exactly.Every cat is unique, and I enjoy learning about your

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

Your cat’s safety is always my top priority. When I arrive, I enter the home slowly and carefully, keeping the door opening as small as possible to prevent curious cats from slipping outside. I’m very mindful about doors and always make sure they are securely closed and locked once I’m inside. At the beginning of each visit, I do a quick check of the home and your cat’s environment. I look around for anything unusual—such as vomit, knocked-over items, or anything that could potentially be unsafe. Cats can sometimes get into mischief, so I like to make sure everything is in good order. I also pay close attention to your cat’s behavior and physical condition. If something seems off, I will communicate with you right away. My goal is to create a calm, safe environment so your cat feels comfortable and well cared for while you’re away.

Are you usually available during holidays?

I’m usually available during most holidays, including Thanksgiving and Christmas, which can be a busy time for travel. I know how important it is for cat parents to have someone reliable during those times, so I’m often happy to help. The only times I’m typically away are when I take my own vacations, which are usually about two weeks in May and sometimes another short trip in October. Outside of those periods, I’m generally available for holiday bookings. If you’re planning travel around a holiday, I recommend reaching out a little early so we can confirm availability and make sure everything is arranged smoothly for your cat’s care.

What is your favorite cat toy?

My favorite cat toys are interactive wand toys. I love how they let cats chase, jump, and really engage their natural hunting instincts. Every cat plays a little differently. My own cat, Misha, loves to leap high into the air to catch the toy, while another cat I care for, Floret, enjoys chasing it quickly across the floor. It’s always fun to see each cat’s unique style. What I enjoy most is the interaction. Wand toys create a playful connection between the cat and the person playing with them, and it’s a great way to give cats both exercise and mental stimulation during a visit.

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

When caring for shy or timid cats, I never force interaction. I respect their pace and give them space to feel safe. When I arrive, I greet them softly and talk in a calm voice while I go about my tasks—cleaning the litter box, refreshing food and water, and checking that everything is okay. Cats may not understand every word, but they do sense tone and energy. Sometimes I’ll bring out a small toy to see if curiosity brings them out, but if they prefer to stay hidden, that’s perfectly fine. I’m very patient and simply meet each cat where they are. 🐈