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

We have been very lucky that a large chunk of our pet sitting experience has been with cats. Since 2017 (Robyn) and 2019 (together), I have had the pleasure of sitting for over 50 wonderful cats! I thoroughly enjoyed all of them.

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

It’s always interesting to discover and interact with all of the personalities. From fiercely independent to those cats that won’t leave your lap, they all give love in their own way.

Can you tell us about your favorite cat sitting reservation?

Honestly, there are so many that it’s impossible to pick one. We love all personality types. The aloof kitties make it easy until you want a picture because they hide. The clingy ones are cute and sweet but for some reason like to sleep on my Robyn’s face. Robyn doesn’t mind though!

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

Unfortunately, no. We are away from home too much to justify getting any animal. It wouldn’t be fair to them.

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

Make sure all expectations are clearly communicated! Medications, time frames for visits, placement of food/water, access to areas of the home (which room are off limits), where possible cameras are, and how often a sitter will be available for communication.

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

Meet and greets are essential! These provide a full understanding of expectations and ability to decide if both client and sitter are a fit for each other. Once a job is accepted, we do encourage folks to write whatever notes they like or even a little “household manual” so that there is less likelihood of miscommunication/misunderstandings. We send updates at each drop in visit and each evening/morning during overnight stays. The goal is to build trust and make sure the kitties and people have little to zero stress!

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

First and foremost, we do everything in our power to be vigilant/observant. We require once a day drop ins at minimum so there is less likelihood for a kitty to get into trouble. We try to close doors to rooms that don’t need accessed so there are less hiding spots and less chance of them getting locked into a room. We check to make sure I can find everyone at each visit and check them for any potential injuries/illnesses as throroughly as possible. We double check that all doors and windows that lead outside are closed/locked before leaving the premises.

Are you usually available during holidays?

Yes! We do like to carve out time for family gatherings (which is usually a lunch), but also do enjoy taking reservations for those who are going to be away.

What is your favorite cat toy?

Anything that gets them interested. Laser, birds on a stick, etc.

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

The tricks that have worked the most is either giving them space or simply sitting with them. Sometimes kitties need to just observe you from afar for a few days and realize that you are there to take care of them. Other kitties react well to sharing a smaller space with you while you speak softly and offer pet parent approved treats.