I'm Cindy
Cindy's Kitty Cat Care
Book With Confidence
Meowtel provides customer support 365 days a year to help cat parents feel informed and supported at every step - including before a reservation is made.
In-home cat sitting visits typically include:
Cindy is experienced with 3 types of medications
Check if Cindy services your area
Unfortunately, Cindy does not cover your area right meow.
I'm Cindy
Cat Sitting in Oceanside, CA
Let me tell you a little bit about myself. I am pet CPR certified. I love being able to work out of my home now. That means my availability is very flexible. I am a former television and radio broadcaster of 25 years who turned to writing professionally. My book (Before the Rooster Crows Twice) was just published in March - very exciting! I own a house in Maine which I run as a vacation rental. It's exciting to meet the guests online. And the most fun job I have is this! I started boarding and caring for cats and dogs professionally about 7 years ago. Helping animal lovers care for their pets is so rewarding... Meow to you, fellow cat lover! My name is Cindy and I live in Oceanside. Throughout my life, I have been a caring mommy to several cats - two of which lived to be 20! I've since added the sweetest little Jack Russell to the mix by the name of Bogart.
Let me tell you a little bit about myself. I am pet CPR certified. I love being able to work out of my home now. That means my availability is very flexible. I am a former television and radio broadcaster of 25 years who turned to writing professionally. My book (Before the Rooster Crows Twice) was just published in March - very exciting! I own a house in Maine which I run as a vacation rental. It's exciting to meet the guests online. And the most fun job I have is this! I started boarding and caring for cats and dogs professionally about 7 years ago. Helping animal lovers care for their pets is so rewarding.
As you already know, felines are super independent, but despite their oftentimes aloof demeanor, they want and need our love and affection. When parents are away and cannot provide that attention, that's when I, as your cat-caregiver, step in to provide what they will be missing while you are gone. I know that I am not the same person as you to them (and they know it) but I strive to do my very best to provide love, affection, care, and consideration as they would get if you had never left them.
Every cat is different - with different personalities and with different needs. If you tell me they need to be fed a certain way, need medications administered, or someone to toss around that little ball with the bell in it for them - I will take care of it all. I have years of experience administering topical ointments, oral medication, and ear or eye drops if your kitty needs it - no problem!
Having someone like me visit your baby on THEIR turf is so important. They feel secure staying in their own environment and you will have that peace of mind knowing they are being cared for in their own home. Meeting new faces, even little kitty faces, is always an exciting experience for me. I hope you will allow me to help!
Learn More About Cindy
What is your experience with cat sitting, and how long have you been doing it?
I have owned cats my whole life, starting from when I was just a kitten, myself. They are unique creatures - that's for sure! Their individual personalities are intriguing, aren't they? I started caring for cats (and dogs) professionally about 7 years ago and have loved it ever since.
What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?
I understand that cats (or most animals) want attention and to feel love. What I enjoy most about cat sitting is that I become that surrogate parent for them while their real mommies and daddies are away. It's comforting to me and your cat to know that someone is looking out for them - to reassure them that they haven't been abandoned and that food and a clean kitty box will continue to exist!
Can you tell us about your favorite cat sitting reservation?
Yes! One of my favorite cat-sitting reservations (and really, all of them have been wonderful) is when a cat mom told me that their feline was standoffish and didn't like people (aside from their owner.) But I was determined to change that. With patience and a soft loving voice, I was able to turn that standoffishness into a warm and trusting experience for their cat. They were eating out of my hand - literally! That tears me up.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a cat sitter?
When looking to hire someone to care for your little kitty, ask questions! Experience in your sitter is important and so are reviews of other customers who have hired that sitter. However, sometimes someone just starting out won't have a ton of reviews, but they might be an awesome sitter! I strongly suggest meeting face to face, asking questions important to YOU - even the seemingly silly ones - and getting an overall feel for who will be going into your home and taking care of your baby while you're gone. Trustworthy-ness is key and most of the time we know it from that first meetup. Go with your gut!
What is your typical process for working with a new cat parent?
When getting a cat for the first time, make sure you are patient with yourself and of course your new kitty. Cats need time to scope out their surroundings and familiarize themselves with where they will be sleeping, eating, scratching or sunning. Sometimes older cats can mark, so you may want to keep a close eye on them when you first bring them home. Kittens will need more time with that, for sure! Give the experience time - for both of you to adjust.
How do you ensure the safety & security of the cats and the home while cat sitting?
I am super conscientious in all that I do in life, especially when it comes to caring for people and animals. When I come to your house, I am respectful of your property, follow your rules and requests to a 'T', and make sure that I lock up exactly the way you want. I double check the door I came in and went out of to make sure it is locked! I keep your key on my ring and when finished, return it exactly where you request it to be. Also, if I notice something is amiss, I will let you know immediately. I'll take any packages inside to ensure they are safe - along with your fur baby. :)
Are you usually available during holidays?
I am available for holiday bookings on average. It's rare that I go out of town for the holidays.
What is your favorite cat toy?
My favorite cat toy is anything on the end of a stick that dangles and that I can hold onto. With those types of toys, I feel that I’m part of the playtime. Throwable toys are great, but more often than not kitties won’t bring them back to you. However, I did have a cat that used to love retrieving milk jug tops! He would bring them back to me every time. :)
How do you handle cats that are particularly timid or anxious?
I allow space to kitties that are timid or anxious - any cat for that matter. But I do try to let them know they can trust me. I will make myself approachable by sitting on the floor and talking soft baby-kitty talk to them and make sure my movements are very slow. I give them time to check me out, but I understand that some are quite cautious and that's alright.
Medication Experience:
Skills:
In-home cat sitting visits typically include:
Cindy is experienced with 3 types of medications
Check if Cindy services your area
Unfortunately, Cindy does not cover your area right meow.
Ashley
September 19, 2025
Cindy was amazing! She was very communicative with plenty of texts & photos to update me. I was worried my cats would get no human interaction while I was gone, but Cindy made them feel comfortable right away and I got lots of pictures of them playing together. I would recommend Cindy to anyone looking for a pet sitter and will definitely work with her in the future!
Read moreResponse from Cindy
Thank you for the kind words and great review, Ashley! It was so much fun playing with Graycie and Siena. Such sweethearts. Thank you again for choosing me to care for your babies. I look forward to seeing them again!
Read more
Becky
June 16, 2025
We had an excellent experience with Cindy! She took great care of our cats while we were away — very timely, communicative, and kind. Cindy kept the litter box area clean, sent lots of great photos, and made sure our fur babies were happy and comfortable. She was also incredibly patient and professional, even when I was a bit frazzled getting ready for our trip. We would absolutely book with Cindy again and highly recommend her to anyone looking for a reliable, caring sitter!
Read moreResponse from Cindy
Becky, I cannot thank you enough for your wonderful 5-Star review! And for choosing and trusting me with caring for your babies. It was such a pleasure meeting you and your family. They are a joy!
Read more
Dwayne
September 16, 2025
Cindy was great with our kitties and provided plenty of pics and detailed communication.
Read moreResponse from Cindy
Thank you for the 5 stars, Dwayne! It was a pleasure caring for your kitties. And thank you, again, for choosing me.
Read more
Olivia
December 28, 2024
Cindy was a pleasure of a cat sitter! She accepted our reservation on short notice and made time to go through our routine, and provided consistent and timely updates. It was a relief to have someone so mindful with our girl while we were away. Not to mention, our kitty seemed to get along with her swimmingly, despite being apprehensive to new people.
Read moreResponse from Cindy
Thank you so much for the 5-star review, Olivia! Buttercup is darling and I loved hanging out with her. You are a wonderful mommy and it shows. Thank you for making caring for her so easy!
Read more
Alexandra
August 20, 2024
Cindy did an amazing job with our kitties! (and our tortoise!). she was even able to get one of our shy younger ones to come out and get treats and pets! she always goes above and beyond for our babies, and leaves the house really clean for when we get home. thanks so much Cindy! until next time!
Read moreResponse from Cindy
You are awesome, Alex! I love the whole group! And you make caring for your babies so easy. Thanks for always having detailed instructions and being available for questions. Thank you for a wonderful review! Yes, "until next time!"❤️
Read more
Bruce
November 14, 2024
Cindy was wonderful with our furry monsters ! A bonded pair of American shorthairs who are a daily challenge for us were Cindy's challenge on our long weekend up the coast. Cindy was very pleasant and very capable during our initial interview. Her performance during the reservation was very high quality and that gave us comfort that the cats were in good hands and were well attended during the whole reservation. We especially enjoyed the videos and still photos provided daily. What a pleasant experience -- we'll be back for Cindy's support on our next trip ! Thanks so much, Cindy.
Read moreService Area & Availability
Drop in visits rates
Cindy's is 40%
Holiday Surcharge
Due to high demand during holidays, sitters on Meowtel have the option to set their own holiday price increase, which can be found in the rates section of their profiles. If your reservation falls within three (3) days before and/or after a federal holiday, or on the holiday itself, a holiday surcharge, determined by your sitter, will be added to your reservation.
These are the date ranges in 2026 to which the holiday surcharge applies:
- January 1-4: New Year's 2026
- January 16-22: MLK Day
- February 13-19: Presidents Day
- May 22-28: Memorial Day
- June 16-22: Juneteenth
- July 1-7: July 4th
- September 4-10: Labor Day
- October 9-15: Columbus Day / Indigenous Peoples' Day
- November 8-14: Veterans Day
- November 23-29: Thanksgiving
- December 22-28: Christmas
- December 29-31: New Year's 2027
Cindy's holiday surcharge is 40%.
Drop in visits rates
Cindy's is 40%
Holiday Surcharge
Due to high demand during holidays, sitters on Meowtel have the option to set their own holiday price increase, which can be found in the rates section of their profiles. If your reservation falls within three (3) days before and/or after a federal holiday, or on the holiday itself, a holiday surcharge, determined by your sitter, will be added to your reservation.
These are the date ranges in 2026 to which the holiday surcharge applies:
- January 1-4: New Year's 2026
- January 16-22: MLK Day
- February 13-19: Presidents Day
- May 22-28: Memorial Day
- June 16-22: Juneteenth
- July 1-7: July 4th
- September 4-10: Labor Day
- October 9-15: Columbus Day / Indigenous Peoples' Day
- November 8-14: Veterans Day
- November 23-29: Thanksgiving
- December 22-28: Christmas
- December 29-31: New Year's 2027
Cindy's holiday surcharge is 40%.
Communicate & Pay Through Meowtel
Using Meowtel's messaging and payment tools helps keep booking details in one place and gives you access to platform support if you need help.
325,000+
Reservations Completed
Trust & Safety
Every reservation is backed by the Meowtel Promise, giving you and your cat world-class customer support every step of the way.
If it doesn't feel like the right fit at the Meet & Greet, or if you have any concerns during the reservation, please call 1-844-MEOWTEL (1-844-636-9835) so we can help you re-book with another sitter.
Labor Day is coming up soon (September 7th, 2026)
Cat sitters on Meowtel are usually pretty busy, don't forget to book your sitter!
Frequently Asked Questions
Reservations officially begin at 12:00 AM in the sitter's time zone on the start date. Cat Parents may cancel within 24 hours of booking and receive a full refund, as long as the reservation has not yet started. After the first 24 hours, the following cancellation rules apply:
- More than 48 hours before the reservation start date: Full refund. The sitter will not receive any earnings.
- 24–48 hours before the reservation start date: 50% refund. The sitter will earn 50% of their planned earnings.
- Within 24 hours of the reservation start date (or after it has begun): No refund. The sitter will earn 100% of their planned earnings.
All refunds are initially applied to the Cat Parent's Meowtel Account Balance for use toward a future reservation or tip. Funds may be returned to the original payment method at any time.
Meowtel is a marketplace that connects cat parents with independent sitters. For eligible reservations booked and paid for through Meowtel, the Meowtel Promise explains how we support cat parents if something unexpected comes up.
If it doesn't feel like a purrfect fit after a Meet & Greet or during a reservation, our support team is here to help at 1-844-Meowtel (1-844-636-9835). We'll take time to understand what happened and help you consider next steps, which could include help with a new reservation.
Oceanside cat sitting rates will vary based on the sitter's experience and services, but the average price is $31.00. Prices depend on visit duration (20, 45, or 60 minutes) and whether you need drop-in visits or overnight stays.
Every cat sitter on Meowtel completes a background check. Ask your sitter about a free Meet & Greet so you (and your kitties!) can feel comfortable with your sitter before you leave.
Cats are territorial animals and don't do well in new environments. The presence of other cats, dogs, and even birds in kennels or animal hotels cause an immense amount of stress. This is why Meowtel was created, so tailored in-home care is brought to you.
We recommend booking daily visits to keep your cats in their routine and help minimize feline anxiety while you're away.
Each visit typically includes: feeding, refreshing water bowls, litter box scooping, tidying up, medications, updates with photos, lots of playtime, and any special requests. Ask your sitter about a free Meet & Greet!
Rating breakdown
Ashley
September 19, 2025
Cindy was amazing! She was very communicative with plenty of texts & photos to update me. I was worried my cats would get no human interaction while I was gone, but Cindy made them feel comfortable right away and I got lots of pictures of them playing together. I would recommend Cindy to anyone looking for a pet sitter and will definitely work with her in the future!
Response from Cindy
Thank you for the kind words and great review, Ashley! It was so much fun playing with Graycie and Siena. Such sweethearts. Thank you again for choosing me to care for your babies. I look forward to seeing them again!
Becky
June 16, 2025
We had an excellent experience with Cindy! She took great care of our cats while we were away — very timely, communicative, and kind. Cindy kept the litter box area clean, sent lots of great photos, and made sure our fur babies were happy and comfortable. She was also incredibly patient and professional, even when I was a bit frazzled getting ready for our trip. We would absolutely book with Cindy again and highly recommend her to anyone looking for a reliable, caring sitter!
Response from Cindy
Becky, I cannot thank you enough for your wonderful 5-Star review! And for choosing and trusting me with caring for your babies. It was such a pleasure meeting you and your family. They are a joy!
Dwayne
September 16, 2025
Cindy was great with our kitties and provided plenty of pics and detailed communication.
Response from Cindy
Thank you for the 5 stars, Dwayne! It was a pleasure caring for your kitties. And thank you, again, for choosing me.
Olivia
December 28, 2024
Cindy was a pleasure of a cat sitter! She accepted our reservation on short notice and made time to go through our routine, and provided consistent and timely updates. It was a relief to have someone so mindful with our girl while we were away. Not to mention, our kitty seemed to get along with her swimmingly, despite being apprehensive to new people.
Response from Cindy
Thank you so much for the 5-star review, Olivia! Buttercup is darling and I loved hanging out with her. You are a wonderful mommy and it shows. Thank you for making caring for her so easy!
Alexandra
August 20, 2024
Cindy did an amazing job with our kitties! (and our tortoise!). she was even able to get one of our shy younger ones to come out and get treats and pets! she always goes above and beyond for our babies, and leaves the house really clean for when we get home. thanks so much Cindy! until next time!
Response from Cindy
You are awesome, Alex! I love the whole group! And you make caring for your babies so easy. Thanks for always having detailed instructions and being available for questions. Thank you for a wonderful review! Yes, "until next time!"❤️
Bruce
November 14, 2024
Cindy was wonderful with our furry monsters ! A bonded pair of American shorthairs who are a daily challenge for us were Cindy's challenge on our long weekend up the coast. Cindy was very pleasant and very capable during our initial interview. Her performance during the reservation was very high quality and that gave us comfort that the cats were in good hands and were well attended during the whole reservation. We especially enjoyed the videos and still photos provided daily. What a pleasant experience -- we'll be back for Cindy's support on our next trip ! Thanks so much, Cindy.
Bruce
May 4, 2025
Cindy is stealing the hearts of my furry monsters ! When I’m on travel I share all the great pictures and videos with my daughter at college. Thanks so much for taking good care of the cat side of the family.
Response from Cindy
Aww...thank you so much for the 5-star review, Bruce! I love the 'furry monsters'. They are a hoot! Thank you again for having me care for them.
Katie
July 14, 2024
Cindy was the absolute perfect cat sitter. We had an emergency vet visit 24hrs before we left and had to adjust our reservation. Cindy was flexible and even administered the medications and provided updates that eased our anxiety during our trip. I cannot express how much of a help and how much relief Cindy provided for us and our cats! 10/10 will book again!
Response from Cindy
5 Stars & 10/10 - Wow, Katie! Thank you for your kind words. I'm so happy that you were able to rest easy knowing FourSocks and Boca were well-cared for while you were away. My pleasure to help any time!❤️
Kathleen
July 14, 2024
Cindy was great! Sent pictures of Gracie’s food and water at every visit. Made sure she would be covered until her next visit. Gracie was shy and would come out to play but Cindy made a great effort to get her out!
Response from Cindy
Thank you so much for the 5 stars, Kathleen! You made it easy to care for Gracie while you were away. Thank you for the instructions! Maybe next time Gracie and I will get a chance to play.🥰❤️
Kim
May 16, 2025
This was my very first time using Meowtel and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Cindy was absolutely wonderful from start to finish. She made me feel so at ease, which meant the world to me as a first-timer leaving my kittens in someone else’s care! She was warm, professional, and clearly a natural with animals — mine took to her immediately! Her updates were thoughtful and reassuring, and I could tell my kitties were not just well cared for, but genuinely loved while I was away. I’m beyond thankful for Cindy and wouldn’t hesitate to book with her again. If you’re nervous about leaving your cats, trust me — Cindy will take amazing care of them!
Response from Cindy
Thank you, Kim! Your words warm my heart. I loved caring for Jack, Wyatt, and Winnie - such sweet characters! I am blessed that you chose me and look forward to helping out again in the future.
Alexandra
June 10, 2024
this is the second time we’ve had Cindy over and it won’t be the last! she’s great with all our kitties, and takes excellent care of our home. I love the updates and photos! Cindy is super responsive and kind - all of our kitties (except for the youngest, but she takes a lot of time to warm up) like her already! thanks Cindy!
Saleemah
December 18, 2023
Cindy was a lifesaver! She took a HUGE weight off my shoulders when I suddenly had to change cat care plans for our 2 senior cats. She responded quickly when I reached out to her and was incredibly accommodating in every way, from start to finish. She took great care of our cats, sent lovely pictures and updates and performed all duties efficiently and well. She’s definitely 5 stars, and I wouldn’t hesitate to use her again.
Response from Cindy
Thank you for the 5 stars, Saleemah! It was such a pleasure caring for Charlie and Kayko. Such sweethearts!❤️🐾
Stephanie
May 18, 2025
Cindy did a great job caring for our two kitties while we were gone! She’s attentive and detailed and keeps you updated with each visit. Her response times are great as well. Such a nice Petsitter. We appreciate her! :)
Response from Cindy
Thank you for the 5 stars, Stephanie! You are so kind. And thank you for putting your trust in me to care for Maggie and Jude while you were away. I look forward to visiting, again!
Holly
September 30, 2025
Cindy sent updates everyday and was so nice! We know Kitti was well taken care of:) Would certainly work with Cindy again. Thank you!
Response from Cindy
Thank you for the awesome review, Holly! Kitti is a sweetheart and it was a pleasure caring for her while you were away. Thanks for the detailed care instructions, too!
Heather
November 23, 2024
Cindy is super responsible and full of common sense and kindness. She sends lots of pictures and an update everyday. My cats are normally very shy around new people. They are already warming up to Cindy.
Jane
December 28, 2023
It was wonderful to know my kitty was just fine. Cindy kept me informed and administered Selleh's medications. Thank you, Cindy!
Response from Cindy
Thank you for the 5 stars, Jane! Selleh was a doll - you made everything so easy for me to care for her. It was a joy! Thank you for choosing and trusting me with your precious baby. ~Cindy🐾
Katie
March 19, 2025
This is our third time working with Cindy! As always she is great with updates, medication administration with our grumpy guy and playing with our kitties!
Response from Cindy
Thank you so much, Katie! It's always a pleasure to care for FourSocks and Boca. They are sweethearts. I love being greeted by your 'grumpy guy'. HAHA I look forward to looking after them again.
Attiya
April 7, 2026
Good communication.
Deanna
July 31, 2025
Doreen
July 15, 2025
Nick
May 25, 2025
Heather
April 14, 2025
Heather
March 20, 2025
Heather
March 15, 2025
Cindy is the best. She helped us out so much this week. She is a fantastic house and pet sitter.
Response from Cindy
Thank you, Heather! You are an awesome kitty mom and it's always a joy to look after your babies. It's exciting to catch a glimpse of their elusive selves. I look forward to future visits with Marcus and Princess!
Bruce
February 4, 2025
Cindy continues to knock it out of the park ! I had a quick reaction requirement this time and she responded positively and performed wonderfully. I can highly recommend Cindy to all ! Thanks Cindy !
Response from Cindy
Thank you for the wonderful review, Bruce! Glad I was there and able to help. Please let me know when Yoda and Cha Cha need caring for, again. I'm there!
Katie
January 23, 2025
This is our second time having Cindy hang with our kitties. She is prompt, great at communicating and flexible. Our kitties definitely relax and show their personalities with Cindy!
Response from Cindy
I'm so glad that I get to hang with Four Socks and Boca. One of these days Boca is going to come down and play with FS and me. :) Thank you again for choosing me, Katie. Always a pleasure!
Heather
October 8, 2024
Cindy did a great job in every way.
Response from Cindy
Thank you, thank you, thank you, Heather!! You're a great kitty mommy, too. You made caring for your babies easy!
Heather
October 8, 2024
Cindy was great. she did everything perfectly. She paid attention to how everything was going and brought things to my attention. She sent pictures everyday. We are very happy with her work.
Response from Cindy
Awww...thank you for the kind words, Heather! And for the 5 stars! It was my pleasure to care for Princess and Marcus. You made it easy by laying everything out for me. I look forward to helping again!
Doreen
October 8, 2024
Response from Cindy
Thank you for the 5 stars, Doreen! It was such a pleasure visiting your beautiful home and caring for Decker and Marshall. Your details made it so easy!
Kathleen
August 11, 2024
Alexandra
May 22, 2024
Response from Cindy
Thank you so much for the five stars, Alex! It was a pleasure caring for all your babies. And thank you for the details-they were so helpful! I look forward to hanging out with the kitties again in the future. ❤️Cindy
Jane
May 2, 2024
Pat
April 5, 2024
Response from Cindy
Thank you so much for the 5⭐️ Review, Pat! It was a pleasure meeting the three of you and I look forward to caring for your babies in the future.❤️
Kim
March 19, 2024
Cindy was perfect for us and I will continue to book with her in the future.
Response from Cindy
Thank you so much for the five stars, Kim! It was a pleasure caring for Luna while you were gone! Always happy to look after her any time. 🐾❤️
Kathryn
March 14, 2024
Cindy did an amazing job with our two babies and followed all instructions perfectly. I would definitely invite her to sit again!
Response from Cindy
Thank you so much for the five stars, Kathryn! Your instructions were so helpful and easy to follow. It was a pleasure caring for Nigel and Simon while you were away and I would love to do it again!💕
Heidi
January 19, 2024
Cindy is fantastic! I know I can trust my kitties with her and I’d definitely book her again!
Response from Cindy
Thank you, again, Heidi! Always a pleasure to care for your kitties. You’re an awesome cat mom!❤️
Heidi
January 5, 2024
Cindy was very prompt in responding and did a perfect job looking after my kitties and sending me updates. thank you Cindy!
Response from Cindy
Thank you so much for the 5-stars, Heidi! Your babies were a breeze to look after and I am grateful that you trusted me with their care. I look forward to tending to your future cat-care needs. You're awesome!
Meowtel
October 31, 2023
Cindy is a background-checked cat sitter in the Oceanside area. Their profile has been verified and their references have been checked by Meowtel.
Free Cancellation (48+ hrs)