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

I’ve been cat sitting on and off for friends, neighbors, and family for 10 years. I know many people think cats are independent, but I believe it’s important to have someone provide social stimulation for cats even if you are only gone overnight. There is more to a cat’s needs than food, water and a clean litter box. When a cat sit, I try to spend time with the cats outside of refilling the food bowl and checking the litter box. I play with them or if they are shy I’ll hang out on the couch and read aloud. Even indirect attention can be stimulating to a cat socially.

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

Cats are my favorite people. I always enjoy meeting new furbabies. Every single one has a different personality and it’s fun to get to know them.

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

I have two cats at home. Phasma is an 11-year-old Russian blue mix. She's very set in her ways and opinionated if things aren't too her liking. I adopted her when she was 9 months old from a rescue in Seminole County. She had previously been raised by a homeless woman, who could no longer care for her. My other cat is Sabine, who is about 7 and was adopted from a shelter in North Carolina. She had been found in a barn in December with her four kittens. I watched her babies all get adopted but she still lived with her foster mom for a few months. I had the opportunity to bring her back to Florida and took it, thinking she'd be a look-but-don't-touch cat because she was thought to be semi-feral. After three years here, she is now the most cuddly and loving cat.

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

Once I read the care instructions myself, I like to meet with new cat parents in-person to go over the information and understand where to find any of the food, water, litterboxes and toys. It is best to clarify any questions prior to the scheduled visits with the parents away. I also feel its best to initially meet the cats while the parent is nearby to ease the anxiety because that is what my kitties prefer. Of course, it also helps to understand the layout of the cat's home and make certain that any keys or entry codes are working properly.

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

I think it's important to make certain that all of the kitties are accounted for which is why it is important to meet with the cat parents before the reservation happens. This way I can learn the cat's favorite hiding spots. I do what I do at home and make certain that no kitties are stuck behind closed doors when I leave. I also make certain that anything that looks to be a cat hazard can be removed from temptation. One of my neighbors I sit for couldn't understand why her tuxedo was getting sick. While she was away, I realized he was chewing on her money plant and moved it into the shower out of reach. It's also important to double check any outside door locks and reset any alarms as directed.

Are you usually available during holidays?

Yes, I usually stay around during the holidays for my own kitties. One of mine is particular upset about fireworks so July 4th and New Years are difficult for her.

What is your favorite cat toy?

One of my all-time favorite cat toys is a simple empty toilet paper roll. You can leave it out as is or even cut fringe into the ends. They also make great treat dispensers if you pinch the ends closed.

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

I have two nervous cats myself and have worked with timid and anxious ones at the shelter as a volunteer. I think it’s important to allow the kitty to come to you and if anything just talk to them. Let them know you are there so they can come forward on their terms. Often I’ll even sit on the ground with them and use a toy or treats but I’ll never force them to be my friend.