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

I adore cats! I've taken care of kittens and adult cats since my early 20's. I've been active doing fostering for local rescues and county shelters for many years. I've been involved in cat and dog rescue work and volunteering for local rescues for many years. I have 5 cats of my own and usually have a crew of foster kittens or cats awaiting their forever homes through adoption. I also work for a local petsitting company.

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

Getting to know each individual cat and learning their personality, likes and dislikes. I enjoy earning their trust and building a friendship with each cat. I like to learn what their favorite things are, whether they are food motivated or have a high play drive or both!

Can you tell us about your favorite cat sitting reservation?

My favorite would probably be a longer duration of visit where I have time to play with the cats as cats love to play and get their energy out and need it just as much as dogs do. Cats have a natural hunting instinct and this can be engaged with wand toys and interactive games. Some cats also love cat TV.

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

I have 5 cats…Willow, Winter, Mia, Tortie, and Cinder. They each have different personalities and needs. Some of my cats like receiving affection more and a few have a high play drive. I have one cat that is extremely food-motivated and we have to lock up the cat food because she will eat it all if given the chance!

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

I understand it can be difficult leaving your cats at home to travel or take a vacation as I go through it myself but I aim to give you peace of mind while you are away knowing that your cats are in very capable, loving hands. I will ensure they're fed, happy, safe, and entertained while you are away.

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

Meeting the cat parent and going through their usual routines with their cats to ensure the cat keeps their normal routine as much as possible and making sure to record all owner's instructions and go over expectations for each of their cat's care. I have a T-shirt that says "Purrsonal Cat Servant" and it is really true, I love to make cats happy!

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

Always making sure to follow owner's instructions, keeping all cats safe and secure in the home by keeping windows and doors secured and locked, and carefully observing the cats while I am in the home. I personally do not allow my own cats outside.

Are you usually available during holidays?

Yes I am available for holidays.

What is your favorite cat toy?

I like Go Cat Dabird/turkey flyers, cat dancer, really any wand toys!

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

I would give them plenty of space and patience. I would not force them to interact with me if they are anxious or shy. I would talk softly and move slowly, sitting down on the floor in the room. I would avoid direct eye contact and would utilize slow blinking to try to keep them calm. I also have Feliway spray with cat pheromones that can help calm cats. I have worked with many shy cats and have progressed with them slowly on their terms to build a trust and friendship to where they eventually feel comfortable with me.