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

Cats have been a central part of my life for as long as I can remember, and after more than 20 years of caring for pets for friends and family, joining Meowtel nearly two years ago was a natural step. Growing up around animals and volunteering hands on with local feline rescues has taught me how to read subtle feline body language and respect each cat’s unique boundaries, whether that means high energy playtime for an outgoing extrovert or quiet, patient company for a shy wallflower. I focus on keeping routines predictable and stress free with meticulous feeding, litter care, and daily photo updates, ensuring your cats receive the attentive, loving care they deserve while you travel with total peace of mind.

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

I love being able to give your fur babies the love and attention they crave while you're away. I take pride in making sure their needs are fully met—whether that means feeding, brushing, snuggling, playing, or simply keeping them company. My goal is to ensure they feel safe, comfortable, and cared for until you return

Can you tell us about your favorite cat sitting reservation?

One of my favorite cat sitting experiences was with a senior cat who needed a little extra TLC—daily medications, special meals, and lots of gentle affection. Over the course of the reservation, she went from hiding under the bed to greeting me at the door and curling up in my lap. It was incredibly rewarding to see her grow comfortable and trust me. Moments like that remind me why I love what I do—earning a cat’s trust is truly special

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

Yes, I’m a proud cat parent myself! Over the years, I’ve cared for cats with a range of medical needs. One of our cats (Yoda) had pancreatitis and required multiple wet food meals a day, oral chemo pills, and topical medications. Our sweet Russian Blue (Princess Leia) lived to be 16 before passing from chronic kidney disease, and she also needed subcutaneous fluids, frequent wet meals, and topical treatments. After their passing, we recently adopted two wonderful siblings from a local shelte, Mando and Bo-Katan, who are keeping our home lively and full of love and we recently adopted a kitten named Grogu. Our local veterinarian, Dr Schrank, at West Orange Veterinary is one of my references. We also highly recommend All4Pets 24HR emergency.

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

Find someone that "checks the boxes." Will this person treat our pet like family? Do you have a special needs kitty? How much does cat behavior experience mean to you? Does the pet sitter have cats themselves, do those cats look happy?

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

My typical process begins with scheduling an in-home or virtual 'meet and greet' to get to know you and your cat(s). During this meeting, we’ll review all the important details—what to expect during my visits, your pet’s specific needs, and any preferences or routines you’d like me to follow. This helps ensure your cat receives the best possible care and that you feel confident and comfortable with my services

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

Ensuring the safety and security of both your cat and your home is a top priority for me. I follow all care instructions closely, double-check doors, windows, and litter areas during each visit, and make sure your cat is safe and accounted for before I leave. I’m also respectful of your home—securing it properly after each visit and keeping everything as you left it. Communication is key, so I provide regular updates to give you peace of mind while you’re away

Are you usually available during holidays?

I am available on certain holidays, depending on my schedule. The more advance notice you can provide, the better the chances I’ll be able to accommodate your needs before any personal plans are made

What is your favorite cat toy?

One of my favorite cat toys is the interactive wand toy—especially ones with feathers or bells. They’re great for engaging cats in play, helping them get exercise, and strengthening the bond between us. It’s always fun to see each cat’s unique hunting style come out during playtime

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

When caring for timid or anxious cats, I always take a calm, patient, and respectful approach. I give them space to adjust at their own pace and avoid forcing interaction. I use quiet movements, soothing tones, and positive reinforcement to help build trust over time. My goal is to create a safe, stress-free environment where they feel comfortable and secure