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

I have been a cat assistant (let's face it, they're in charge) for family and for a neighbor who helped to feed strays on our street.

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

I love getting to be around different types of cats, from quiet and aloof to crazy and in your face. I'm always trying to tell people that cat's personalities vary greatly, and they all have different needs.

Can you tell us about your favorite cat sitting reservation?

I was watching over my sister's cats at her house and one of them loved me, would come for pets and snuggles while I was there, and the other avoided me like crazy and just wanted her food. On my last night checking on them, the shy one finally came to say "Hi" and get pets and scritches and rewarded me with purring. A win for me!

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

I have had many cats since I was a kid, and currently have three: Bart, Lisa, and Maggie. Bart and Lisa are siblings, Maggie came along later when my neighbor needed to re-home her as a kitten.

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

Please don't be afraid to let your sitter know about your cats individual needs and personality quirks! Cats are just like people, every one is different.

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

I think the most important thing is to listen and learn about each cat and to really pay attention to any fears or anxieties a client has about leaving their cats in the care of a sitter.

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

My own cats are strictly indoor, so I understand how much it means to keep every cat safe and in whatever secure situation their owner wants. Of course, making sure the house is safe and secure is the most important thing so I make sure doors and windows are secured.

Are you usually available during holidays?

I am usually available during holiday seasons, often on holidays themselves. I may take a day trip to visit family in the Bay area, but am usually home every night.

What is your favorite cat toy?

It depends on the cat, but I have always had luck with crinkly balls or the balls with bells inside. Cats love to chase them and some will even bring them to play fetch!

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

A slow approach works best with shy kitties. I just do my best to move slowly and quietly so that they understand that I'm not there to scare them.