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

I've cat sat for over 25 years since I started in high school and have loved on a number of sweet and spunky cats in that time.

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

I love getting to know each cat's personality and what they like (e.g. are they interested in cuddling on a lap? are they most interested in chasing their mouse toy? etc.).

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

I've got one black cat named Papaya at this time who is a very sweet cat to those she loves.

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

I usually respond to a chat message from a cat parent and then set up a meet n' greet. At the meet n' greet, the cat parent will introduce me to their kitty or kitties, show me around their place, and I make sure I know where the food, supplies, and litterboxes are. When the reservation starts, I send lots of photos, videos, and updates so the cat parent(s) can rest assure their fur buddies are getting a fun staycation while they're gone.

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

I know how I'd like my own home and my own pets to be cared for while away and I make sure the kitties in my care get the best in terms of their safety and security. I always make sure to leave the toys in the desired location and say goodbye to all the kitties so I know where everyone is before I leave the home. I double-check the door is locked and any lights are turned off (or left on if the cat parents like for security purposes). After my final visit, I either leave the key in the desired location or set up a time to return it to the cat parents, and send a final wrap-up chat message.

Are you usually available during holidays?

Yes, I'm usually available for Thanksgiving, winter break, and spring break (according to the PSD school district calendar) most years. Our close extended family lives in Fort Collins or surrounding areas so we don't usually travel at those times.

What is your favorite cat toy?

The most universal cat toy I've found is the Go Cat Catcher mouse toy - it's got a sparkly wand with a wire string that connects to a mouse. I have yet to find a cat that doesn't love this teaser wand cat toy. I think it's the way the mouse moves on the end of the wire and how they can't quite see the wire moving the mouse that thrills the kitties!

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

I take it sloooooowwwww! One of my previous cats was timid and anxious. I kept him in his own room for a week and I sat with him every night after work with a book and a blanket on my lap. Eventually he started to sniff me and then he sat on my lap for a minute, then for longer. I knew it was a success when he greeted me at the door, not hiding in his box any more. I always ask the cat parent about the kitties' favorite hiding spots and will sit next to those spots when I stop by. I'm very patient, quiet, and know what sounds to make to get them curious about me and feeling safe.