I'm Jazz

Cats With Jazz - Cert Feline Specialist

5.00
539 Reviews
205 Repeat clients
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1,000+ Reservations Completed
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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:

Litter box cleaning
Feeding
Water refresh
A text update with at least 1 photo
Playtime and belly rubs

Jazz is experienced with 6 types of medications

Topical Ointments Eye/Ear Drops Oral Medication / Pills Injections / Diabetic Management Subcutaneous Fluids Inhalers

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Cats With Jazz - Cert Feline Specialist

I'm Jazz

Cat Sitting in Berkeley, CA

♡ Meet Me
Hi there! I’m Jazz, CFVP, CPPS, FFCP-S/T/G, a full-time feline specialist dedicated to caring for cats and their complex, beautiful, and often misunderstood needs. With over 19 years of hands-on experience and hundreds of clients across the San Francisco Bay Area, I don’t just “watch” cats – I advocate for them, understand them, and meet them exactly where they are.

From neonates to hospice seniors, from confident companions to fearful or reactive cats, I provide calm, compassionate, behavior-aware care rooted in trust, patience, and science-backed practices.

I work with cats of all needs and temperaments. Whether your cat is easygoing and just needs dependable daily care, or requires advanced, specialized support, my services are for everyone.

Continue reading to learn more about me, my experience, philosophy, and approach!

♡ Credentials & Professional Standing
I bring a combination of over 19 years of hands-on experience, advanced education, and active industry involvement:

• Certified...
♡ Meet Me
Hi there! I’m Jazz, CFVP, CPPS, FFCP-S/T/G, a full-time feline specialist dedicated to caring for cats and their complex, beautiful, and often misunderstood needs. With over 19 years of hands-on experience and hundreds of clients across the San Francisco Bay Area, I don’t just “watch” cats – I advocate for them, understand them, and meet them exactly where they are.

From neonates to hospice seniors, from confident companions to fearful or reactive cats, I provide calm, compassionate, behavior-aware care rooted in trust, patience, and science-backed practices.

I work with cats of all needs and temperaments. Whether your cat is easygoing and just needs dependable daily care, or requires advanced, specialized support, my services are for everyone.

Continue reading to learn more about me, my experience, philosophy, and approach!

♡ Credentials & Professional Standing
I bring a combination of over 19 years of hands-on experience, advanced education, and active industry involvement:

• Certified Professional Pet Sitter (CPPS)
• Fear Free Certified Pet Sitter, Trainer, and Groomer(FFCP-S, FFCP-T, FFCP-G)
• Fear Free Shelter Certified
• Cat Friendly Veterinary Professional (CFVP)
• Certified in Feline CPCR & First Aid
• IAABC Scholarship Recipient (in training, CCBC)
• Feline Behavior & Training Specialist (ABI, in training)
• Subscribed to the Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery (JFMS)
• Active member of the following associations: Feline Veterinary Medical Association (FelineVMA), International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC), Fear Free Pet Professionals, Karen-Pryor Academy (KPA), National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS), and Pet Sitters International (PSI)
• Owner & Operator of Cats With Jazz LLC
• Bonded & Insured (Business Insurers of the Carolinas)

I am committed to continuing education and staying at the forefront of feline health, behavior, welfare, and low-stress handling techniques.

♡ Feline Care Services
I provide care for every type of cat and household, including:

• Healthy, social, and easygoing cats needing simple, reliable care
• Neonatal kittens, pregnant & nursing queens
• Seniors, hospice, and special-needs cats
• Shy, fearful, feral, semi-feral, or behaviorally complex cats
• Medical and recovery support

My medication expertise includes oral medications, topicals, eye/ear/nasal treatments, inhalers, and more.

Every visit is tailored to your cat’s individual personality, emotional state, and routine – whether their needs are simple or complex.

♡ About Me
Cats have shaped my life since I rescued my first, Stripie, at age five, and that bond has only deepened over time.

Today, I share my home with five rescue cats – Biggie, Sweetie, Socks, Dottie, and Cleo – and my guinea pig, Gwen. I understand firsthand how much trust it takes to leave your pets in someone else’s care, and I deeply value the confidence my clients place in me.

Beyond my business, I actively volunteer with local rescues and shelters, transport cats in need, foster, and support rehabilitation and rehoming efforts for at-risk, ill, and injured cats. These experiences deepen my ability to handle a wide range of feline personalities and medical or behavioral situations with confidence and compassion.

Through Cats With Jazz LLC, I bring over 19 years of professional experience caring for cats and animals throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. I am bonded and insured through Business Insurers of the Carolinas, hold CPPS, CFVP, and FFCP designations, and maintain additional certifications including feline CPCR and first aid. I am committed to ongoing education in feline behavior and welfare.

I prioritize building genuine and long-lasting connections with both cats and their humans. I understand the responsibility of being invited into your home, and I honor that trust with consistency, professionalism, and care at every visit. The Cats With Jazz community is a family that I love and cherish.

♡ Cleanliness & Safety Protocols
• Hands washed before and after every visit
• Food and water bowls, litter scoops, and surfaces cleaned daily
• Scrub changes upon request
• Mask-wearing and shoe removal upon request
• Respectful, secure, and tidy care of your home at every visit

♡ Availability & Service Areas
I offer drop-in visits (20, 45, or 60 minutes) up to 3 times daily as well as overnight visits for extended or supportive care. I serve Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Mateo, Solano, and Sonoma counties.

♡ Thank you for welcoming me into your cat’s world. I’m grateful every day to do what I love, and I look forward to meeting you and your extraordinary cats.

Learn More About Jazz

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

I’ve been caring for cats for over 18 years, but in August 2021, I made the decision to turn my lifelong passion into a full-time profession. Since then, I’ve been operating Cats With Jazz, LLC, where I focus exclusively on providing exceptional care to cats in the San Francisco Bay Area. Throughout my life, I've had the privilege of owning and fostering cats, each with unique needs and personalities. I’ve cared for hundreds of cats, from playful kittens to special-needs seniors. My experience spans everything from administering medication to managing complex behavioral challenges, and I continually pursue education to stay updated on the latest in feline care. Your cats will always be treated like family—each visit is tailored to their needs, ensuring they receive the love and care they deserve, just like my own kitties.

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

I love the lifelong connections I build with both the cats and their owners. It’s truly fulfilling to get to know each cat’s unique personality, whether they're playful, shy, or in need of special care. I take pride in being there for your cat during visits and beyond, offering support through follow-up communication, staying in touch on social media, or even a phone call just to check in. Being part of your cat’s care team and building trust with you is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work. I’m honored to offer peace of mind and be a reliable resource for both your cats’ well-being and your own. The relationships I’ve developed with both cats and their families are something I deeply cherish, and I look forward to continuing to serve with love and dedication.

Can you tell us about your favorite cat sitting reservation?

One of my most memorable cat-sitting experiences was with Liem, a 19-year-old senior cat who captured my heart. Liem had severe CKD, and his care required close attention to ensure he was eating, drinking, and using the litter box regularly. Despite his health challenges, he was a calm and simple cat who loved life’s little joys. We spent many peaceful hours in his backyard, watching the hummingbirds flit through the flowers and trees as the sun rose and set. When he was ready to rest, he would curl up in my lap or sleep on my chest, purring contentedly. Liem passed away in January 2022, but the memories of those quiet, tender moments still bring me comfort. Caring for him was a privilege I’ll always hold dear.

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

My journey as a cat owner began in 2007 with Stripie, my soul cat. She was the first cat I rescued, and she changed my life in ways I’ll forever cherish. Stripie’s spirit continues to inspire everything I do, even though she passed in 2022. In 2020, I adopted Biggie, a resilient and loving boy who had been surrendered to a rescue. His sweet purr-sonality won me over instantly, and he quickly became a treasured part of my family. In 2022, I started fostering for the same rescue, and that's when Sweetie came into my life as a pregnant stray. I eventually foster-failed her and one of her kittens, Dottie. Now, Biggie, Sweetie, and Dottie fill my home with joy, laughter, and endless entertainment. They’re my heart and my inspiration.

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

Simply loving cats or owning them isn’t enough. Professional experience, training, and an understanding of feline behavior and health – both mental and physical – make all the difference in ensuring your cat receives proper care. I recommend looking for a sitter who specializes in cats and has hands-on experience with different temperaments, medical needs, and emergencies/natural disasters. When life happens, you want someone knowledgeable and experienced to care for your cats. Certifications in pet first aid, CPCR, and ongoing education in feline health and behavior are essential. Bonding and insurance add another layer of protection for you and your home. Ask detailed questions to ensure you've found the right fit for your family. A great cat sitter does more than provide the basics; they tailor care to your cat’s needs, prioritize safety, and respect your home. You and your cats deserve nothing less.

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

As a professionally trained cat sitter with certifications in feline care, I take a comprehensive approach to guiding new cat parents. My process begins with understanding their cat’s unique personality, history, and needs. I provide education on essential topics such as proper feeding routines, hydration, litter box maintenance, enrichment, and medical care. New cat parents often receive conflicting advice, and I help clarify best practices while pointing out necessary adjustments to ensure their cat’s health and safety. Whether it’s recommending a more suitable diet, addressing behavioral concerns, or improving their cat’s environment, I tailor my guidance to their specific situation. Beyond visits, I remain available for ongoing support. Whether it’s answering questions, troubleshooting behavioral changes, or offering product recommendations, I’m always happy to help. Being part of a cat’s care team means ensuring both the cat and their owner feel confident, informed, and supported every step of the way.

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

Cat safety and home security are my top priorities. During each visit, I provide attentive supervision, ensuring that cats are safe, healthy, and stress-free. I conduct a thorough safety check, securing all doors, windows, and access points while monitoring for potential hazards such as loose wires, toxic plants, and small objects that could be ingested. As a certified professional in Feline CPCR & First Aid, I perform head-to-tail check-ups to detect early signs of illness or injury. I follow strict medication administration protocols and have emergency plans in place, including veterinary contacts and evacuation procedures for natural disasters. For home security, I ensure all locks, alarms, and security systems are set as instructed. I maintain clear communication with cat parents, providing real-time updates on their cats and home. By prioritizing safety at every level, I give cat parents peace of mind while they’re away.

Are you usually available during holidays?

I'm always available during the holidays. Ensuring the safety and well-being of the cats in my care is my top priority, no matter the time of year. Holidays can be stressful for both cats and their owners, but with me, you can rest assured that your feline companions are in experienced, loving hands. My hours remain the same year-round—5 AM to 11:30 PM daily. I accommodate early morning, late-night, and multiple visits per day to keep your cat comfortable and stress-free. I also accept emergency and last-minute bookings, as I want to be there when my clients and kitty friends need me most. Since the holidays are a peak travel time, I highly recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred dates. No matter the season, my commitment to the safety, well-being, and happiness of the cats in my care never changes.

What is your favorite cat toy?

I’m a big fan of catnip kickers and wand toys! These interactive toys tap into a cat's natural hunting instincts, offering them both mental and physical stimulation. Watching a cat pounce, chase, and proudly "catch" their prey is pure joy for me. It’s the ultimate cat play experience! In my home, feather wands and catnip bananas are popular favorites. My Crew is incredibly active, and they love to fetch smaller toys, running full speed with their little toe beans! Another favorite in our house is the Ripple Rug, which provides endless enrichment for them. Many clients tell me their cats aren’t interested in toys. With permission, I love bringing along a variety of new wand or catnip toys during my visits to spark their curiosity. So far, I haven’t met a cat who can resist a little fun!

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

When working with timid/anxious cats, I always take a calm, quiet, and gentle approach to help them feel comfortable and safe. I give them the space they need to adjust and avoid overwhelming them. Patience is key, and I allow them to initiate interactions at their own pace. I use positive reinforcement to reward small steps toward comfort, such as offering treats or gentle words of encouragement when they come closer. I’m highly attuned to body language—both mine and the cat’s—to ensure that I’m reading their cues and responding appropriately. With the owner's permission, I’ll use pheromone sprays like Feliway to help create a soothing atmosphere. I also respect safe spots, allowing cats to retreat if they’re feeling stressed. Keeping their routine consistent, including feeding and playtimes, helps reduce anxiety and builds trust. Ultimately, I respect each cat’s boundaries while working to foster a sense of security in their own environment.


Medication Experience:

Topical Ointments Eye/Ear Drops Oral Medication / Pills Injections / Diabetic Management Subcutaneous Fluids Inhalers

Skills:

Animal CPR Trained Foster Parent T-N-R Shelter Volunteer

5.00
539 reviews
5.0
Attention to Detail
5.0
Communication
5.0
Tidiness
Risa

Risa

May 6, 2026

I am certain Jazz's attention, awareness, keen observation of my cat saved his life. The TL;DR is that Jazz met him once at our meet & greet and while watching him a couple of weeks later was able to tell that something was not right with him. Jazz alerted me to the situation right away; he was able to get life-saving fluids and medical care that night. When you trust your little loves to a stranger, you want to believe they won't just come over for five minutes, drop food ina. bowl and split.Jazz paid the kind of attention I pay. Priceless. This was the first time I worked with Jazz and every day exceeded my expectations from the check-ins to the captivating photos. I have a former feral that came out of hiding and interacted with Jazz; a miracle in itself. I can't say enough good things about Jazz but I can say Jazz will be watching my cats from now on.

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Meowtel-verified reservation 1+ week long

Response from Jazz

Risa, it was an honor to spend time with Macchiato and Mr. Kippers. I’m grateful my professional observations led to the care Kippers needed. Your trust means everything, and I’m sending so much love to him during his recovery!

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Sequoia

Sequoia

August 16, 2026

Jazz was an amazing cat sitter! she successfully administered all my kitties meds, including and inhaler for my shy kitty. I was so impressed how she gained their trust. highly recommend!

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Meowtel-verified reservation 1+ week long
Mackenzie

Mackenzie

June 7, 2026

Jazz took excellent care of my two kitties while I was away for 11 days. During our pre-sit meeting, Jazz asked thorough questions to make sure she knew my cats’ routine and individual needs. When one of my cats unexpectedly refused his medication, Jazz used extra treats to make sure pill time remained a positive experience. Jazz also went above and beyond to make my cats feel comfortable with a new person in their home. Jazz sent pictures and thorough updates after each visit with details on how the cats behaved. I would gladly have Jazz catsit again!

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Meowtel-verified reservation 1+ week long
Matthew

Matthew

September 14, 2026

Jazz, as always, was an absolute joy to work with! Over the years we've worked with four cat sitters who have all been lovely, but Jazz is the only one who's ever gotten to pet her! She sends timely updates, lots of photos, and of course handles all the chores perfectly. can’t recommend her more highly!

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Meowtel-verified reservation with drop-in visits
Hannah

Hannah

January 19, 2026

I cannot say enough - this is the cat lady you want taking care of your sweet fur baby/babies. She is cool, calm, and collected. Most importantly, she is kind. Our cat is shy around most strangers, and she warmedh up to Jazz on the first meet and greet. Jazz took the time to learn every detail of Arya’s routine and more. She’s the sitter you don’t want to recommend because you don’t want to lose her - she’s that good.

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Meowtel-verified reservation 1+ week long

Response from Jazz

Thank you so much, Hannah! It was an honor to bond with Arya so quickly. I truly appreciate your kind words about our routine and my approach. I’m happy to be your go-to cat lady whenever you need me! 🩷

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Sarah

Sarah

January 6, 2026

I was so impressed by Jazz's professional and dedicated service. Every day I looked forward to her message to me telling me in her descriptive and imaginative way how the visit with my cat went and sharing so many cute photos. it's always so hard to leave my cat when I go on vacation but knowing Jazz was taking such good care of her and receiving my daily updates gave me such peace of mind and I was so grateful to her ... and my cat adored her as well!!!

Read more
Meowtel-verified reservation 1+ week long

Service Area & Availability

Drop in visits rates

$48.05 / 20min
$69.55 / 45min
$93.90 / 60min

Overnight stay rate

$120.85 / Overnight
Calendar updated 4 days ago

Jazz's is 30%

Service Area Map

Drop in visits rates

$48.70 / 20min
$70.20 / 45min
$93.00 / 60min

Overnight stay rate

$143.00 / Overnight
Calendar updated 2 days ago

Jazz's is 35%

Service Area Map

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.

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4.9
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375,000+
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.

Featured Cat Sitters Near Berkeley, CA

  • Andrew, Sitter on Meowtel in Richmond, cares for three cow cats, Henry, Sadie, and Jazz 🐾. His fostering experience with shy and feral kitties pairs well with photo updates, pill, eye/ear drop, and ointment care, plus new-client, holiday, and weekend availability.

    Trusted Cat Dad Energy 🐾
    VIEW PROFILE
  • Nyah brings 8 years of in-home cat care, a calm, steady touch, and medication support for pills or topical ointments. She’s open to new clients, usually available on weekends and holidays, and offers overnight stays. 🐾

    Calm care for shy cats 🐾
    VIEW PROFILE
  • Destiny is a 3rd-year art student in El Sobrante with 2 years of cat sitting experience, fast response times, and weekend availability. They share life with Luna, Sunny, and Stella, and welcome new clients while caring for multiple cats with thoughtful attention 🐱

    Weekend Cat Care, Fast Replies
    VIEW PROFILE
  • Kristina in Richmond, CA brings a caring, detail-oriented touch to cat visits, with two beloved cats, Eva and Zora, at home 🐱 She handles oral meds, eye/ear drops, and topical ointments, welcomes new clients, and sends photo updates 🐾

    Trusted cat care, little details
    VIEW PROFILE
  • Kelda is a fast-responding Oakland sitter who accepts new clients, usually takes weekend and holiday visits, and brings 2 years of professional cat sitting plus years of volunteer rescue work. She handles pills, drops, ointments, and subcutaneous fluids, with a gift for shy or fractious cats 😺

    Shy Cat Specialist 😺
    VIEW PROFILE
  • Kasey is a fast-responding Oakland sitter on Meowtel with 40+ five-star reviews, 13 repeat clients, and overnight stays available. They bring medication skills for pills, drops, ointments, and inhalers, plus weekend availability for new clients. 🐾

    Trusted Cat Care, Fast Replies
    VIEW PROFILE
  • Dianna is a rescue-experienced Sitter on Meowtel in Emeryville with 30 repeat clients, fast responses, overnight stays, and usually weekend and holiday availability. She cares for shy or medical cats, including injections and diabetic management, while helping Cleo and Mia feel at home 😸

    Rescue Care for Shy Cats 😸
    VIEW PROFILE
  • Tiara-Jade is a very fast responder in Alameda who accepts new clients, offers overnight stays, and is usually available on weekends and holidays. With over 30 years caring for cats, plus eye and ear drops and topical ointments, they understand shy kitties too 🐾

    Shy Cats Welcome Here 🐾
    VIEW PROFILE

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.

Berkeley cat sitting rates will vary based on the sitter's experience and services, but the average price is $40.00. 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 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 Meet & Greet!

5.00
539 reviews
5.00 From $48.05