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

I have been cat sitting for over 25 years, I love visiting with cats of all personalities. Cats are so unique and they are much more routine based than dogs.

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

I love that I can help a cat stay home while their family is out of town. Most cats prefer not to be boarded. I enjoy getting to know each cat's personality, and finding out what keeps them relaxed and happiest. Some cats love to play, some cats want to cuddle, some prefer to watch me from across the room, and some only come out when I am not present. I work with each cat to do what keeps them comfortable.

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

I have three cats of my own. Sienna is my older girl, rescued at 5 years old from a shelter. My two boys were rescued as orphaned kittens and hand raised for a rescue. After raising them, my husband and I could not give them up. Rocky and Pixel are approx the same age and keep us entertained with their antics.

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

Find a person who treats your cat with the same standard of care that you give. Your cat deserves no less. Find a person who you trust. Read their references and reviews. Trust your gut above all. A sitter might be wonderful yet not be the right match for your house. The meet and greet is a great time to get to observe the person.

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

My first thing is a meet and greet so I can meet you, and learn about your cat's routine. It is also the time to pick up a key, see where the mail boxes is if I will bring in the mail and make notes about any alarms. I make myself available before and during the sit to promptly answer any questions or concerns. I know it is stressful to leave my own cats when I go out of town and I know most cat parents have concerns.

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

Keeping your cat(s) and your house safe are my top priority. I am hyper conscious of making sure the cat stays inside, checking and double checking before I leave that the door is closed securely and locked. I place myself in the doorway when I enter, keeping my eyes open for door dashers. I eyeball all doors and windows at each visit to be sure they are still locked. Before leaving, it is customary to check each outdoor door to be sure it is closed and locked, then to let myself out, and rattle the door know to be sure it locked behind me.

Are you usually available during holidays?

I do my best to be available for holidays, but they do book fast. I do not overbook because a stressed sitter is less likely to notice problems with their charges.

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

My work with feral cats and my Fear Free Certification means that I am equipped to understand many cats have the need for space. When in these situations, I will give your cat space while sitting and quietly reading a book out loud (if my voice is not causing distress). Or I will sit and silently read. When I am moving about the house, I move slowly, slow blinking to allow them to understand I am not chasing them or stepping into their personal space. I let cats approach me, it gives them the choice. I make sure they have a way to move away from me.