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

I just joined the cat-sitting gig business, but I have been a cat owner for over 20 years, most of that time to multiple cats! I am experienced with cats of all life stages, from kitten to geriatric. I am a full-time mom, but before that I worked in 9-5 office jobs in urban planning.

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

I love getting to know each cat and learning about its personality. It is satisfying for me to gain trust with timid cats and make new friends, in both the cat and their owners!

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

I have one cat named Finch. He is an adult Seal Point Siamese who is curious, sassy, and sweet. He is definitely bonded to me, and enjoys giving me hugs and riding on my back!

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

I recommend hiring someone who has a cat of their own, lives close to you, and whose bio resonates with you personally. Pick someone you feel you can trust and who communicates well.

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

When working with a cat parent, I always like to have an 20-minute, free meet and greet so that both parties feel comfortable with each other. During this time, we talk about the important details of watching your cat(s) - food location and amounts, litter box and trash location, medication requirements if any, favorite hiding spots and toys, and personalities and habits. I follow up with owners 48 hours before their trip to confirm details and get home entry information. I send pictures of your kitties relaxing or having fun at least once per day of your booking dates with me.

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

I always make sure to watch my entry and exit from doors to the house and garage closely to make sure no kitties are trying to sneak out when I use them. I always double check that I have locked the door when I leave the home, and I don’t use any entrances not discussed during the meet and greet. I keep the home as it was as much as possible during my time, making sure things are put back where I found them. I refresh water daily and wash cat dishes if I watch your cat(s) over three days to keep bacteria at bay. I scan for any hazards or warnings that may have popped up since my last visit, for example a broken toy, or strange litter box habits, so I can address them.

Are you usually available during holidays?

I am available for many holidays! Just check my calendar! I try to update my availability to about three months out.

What is your favorite cat toy?

My favorite cat toy is the Yeowww! catnip banana! I’ve never met a cat who doesn’t love it. It’s got a strong, fresh catnip smell and is a great kicker toy.

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

With cats that are particularly timid or anxious, I usually get down on the ground and see if they come to me and show some interest. If they do, I may put my hand out slightly to let them smell me. I don’t make direct eye contact at first, but like to pretend to ignore them a bit and see what they do. Usually the cat warms up to me pretty quickly. If not, I give it space during my visits. I will do my best to locate the cat and get a pic for the owner’s assurance, but if it’s scared I’ll leave it at that. I may eventually try favorite treats or toys to gain trust, and speak to it in gentle, quiet tones.