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

I have been pet sitting for both dogs and cats for about 5 years full time. I've sat for households with more than 5 cats, for households with one cat, senior cats, sick cats, shy cats, etc. and it has been incredibly rewarding to meet and care for each one. Before pet sitting full time, growing up I had pet cats (Captain Jack and Loki) and would take side jobs pet sitting as a teen, so I have been both caring for and working with them for years.

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

I adore animals, being around them brightens my day and I love getting to know and bond with new ones-learning their routines habits and quirks, and of course love petting them (if they allow, lol). I tend to stay indoors more often and get to do projects while cat sitting for long periods of time which works out very well for my lifestyle.

Can you tell us about your favorite cat sitting reservation?

Yes! Two cats I'm greatful to have met and get to sit regularly; a tabby girl who enjoys being within your vicinity and just stares sweetly and slow blinks at you and has big bursts of energy that I adore watching, and an orange boy who's missing one eye and has a name fitting that (which is precious) and is a huge sweetheart, constantly jumping on me, rubbing against my hand if I even put it out a little, laying with me and tries to clean me, they are great cats.

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

I like to meet them and their pet once before sitting so I am not a completely new stranger to the cat(s) when sitting, I ask for detailed notes and instructions as to what to the cat(s) need and their daily routines, as well as any other instructions (house, plant or other pet care), I ask for emergency contacts and their vet's number and address.

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

I will keep cats indoors, windows not open in a way that allows escape, doors locked in case they're really tricky and for home security, regular eyes on them, and keep to all specific instructions given.

Are you usually available during holidays?

If I am booked far before the holiday, yes, I prefer to plan far ahead of time if I sit on holidays but will do so happily.

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

I always allow the cat to choose to meet with me on it's own terms, instead of forcing interaction, and in my experience it takes about 10-30 minutes then they come in for a smell. If treats/catnip/toys/food are suggested I will use those. Once they come up to me I try to keep calm and quiet to not scare them back off.