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

I've been cat-sitting for friends and family for several years and honestly, it never really felt like a "job." Most of my friends have two or more cats, so I'm completely used to juggling different personalities, feeding schedules, and medication routines all in the same visit. I stay until I'm confident every cat has been fed, played with, and is settled, not just a quick drop-in and dash.

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

The slow-burn trust-building. Some cats greet you at the door; others spend the first two visits judging you from across the room. I love earning that trust. Watching a cat go from suspicious to comfortable is genuinely one of the most satisfying things. It tells me the pet parent made a great choice, and it means the cat is actually relaxed and happy, not just tolerating me.

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

Yes! Mochi is my six-year-old orange tabby girl. She's opinionated, very food-motivated, and absolutely the reason I understand what a well-cared-for cat looks like. She's also great at reminding me to clean. I stay on top of litter, surfaces, and general tidiness because of her, which means your home will be just as clean when you get back as when you left.

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

Ask about their own experience with cats, not just sitting for others but actually living with one. Anyone can follow a feeding schedule, but understanding cat body language, knowing when a cat is stressed vs. just aloof, and recognizing signs that something might be off health-wise come from real day-to-day experience. Also, look for someone who communicates proactively. You shouldn't have to ask for updates; a good sitter sends them.

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

I always recommend a meet-and-greet before the first booking. It gives your cat a chance to see me in their space without the pressure of a full visit, and it gives you a chance to walk me through their routine in person. I'll ask about feeding times, medications, favorite spots, quirks, things they hate, and your vet's contact info. By the time your first visit rolls around, I already know your cat and your home, so you can leave with total peace of mind.

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

Cats are escape artists; I know this firsthand with Mochi. Before I do anything else, I do a full walk-through: all doors locked, windows checked, and I look for anything that could be a hazard: toxic plants, exposed cords, or small objects they could swallow. I also keep my phone on during every visit so I'm reachable if anything comes up, and I'll always flag anything unusual to you right away.

Are you usually available during holidays?

Yes, I am available and around town during the holidays! You can count on me to check on the cats to ensure they are thriving and playing.

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

Timid and anxious cats are actually some of my favorites to sit for; they just need a different approach. I never force interaction. When I arrive, I let them set the pace: I'll sit nearby, speak softly, and go about my tasks without making a big deal of them. Sometimes that means a cat watches me from a distance the entire visit, and that's completely okay. The goal isn't to get them to like me immediately; it's to make sure they feel safe. Over time, even the shyest cats usually come around, and those small moments of progress are genuinely some of the most rewarding parts of this work. I'll also always communicate with you if I notice your cat seems more stressed than usual, so we can adjust the routine together.