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

I've been a Meowtel sitter since 2021 and have over 25 happy clients, many of which are regular clients.

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

I love meeting new kitties. If I could have 100 of them, I would. For obvious reasons, this is not going to happen in my lifetime. Meowtel sitting gives me the opportunity to meet and spend time with so many other cats. The down side is that my cat does get a little jealous when I get home smelling like other cats, but she knows deep down that she is my only true furry love.

Can you tell us about your favorite cat sitting reservation?

My favorite experience was cat sitting for a woman before I joined the Meowtel family. She was the person who inspired me to do this professionally on a regular basis. Her name is Jennifer and she has 6 cats! They are all absolutely adorable and so fun and playful. They're on the chonky side which makes them extra cute. I still see them every now and again, when she needs someone to come check on them.

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

Yes! I currently have one kitty. Her name is Tuxi and she adopted me in 2010. She has been part of my family ever since. She's a tuxedo American short haired cat who came to me from the streets. In May of 2025, she was diagnosed with cancer and I am currently providing her with the best end of life care as I possibly can, just keeping her comfortable and spoiling her even more than before, until she lets me know that she's ready to go.

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

ALWAYS schedule a meet & greet. It's so important to see how you and your fur babies vibe with someone coming into your home to care for your them.

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

I start with coordinating a good time for us to meet at the client's home for a meet & greet. If the meeting goes well, we discuss the key exchange process (if applicable). I inform them that I will be in close contact with them during their time away via the Meowtel app by sending lots of photos and regular updates. I like to make sure they have an opportunity to ask me any questions they have.

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

I visibly check for the cats at the start and end of each visit. I make sure doors are quickly closed behind me when entering and leaving the home. I keep the home locked up, even when I am inside the home. I double check to make sure the home is locked up before leaving the premises, sometimes several times (my OCD kicks into high gear on this one).

Are you usually available during holidays?

Yes, I am. I typically celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas locally with my sister and her family, but my husband and I always take a vacation sometime between the day after Christmas through the first week of January.

What is your favorite cat toy?

Laser Cat Toy - Link found below. My kitty loves it! https://www.amazon.com/AOLIGY-Automatic-Laser-Interactive-Indoor/dp/B09QLY79N5y

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

Very delicately - I have had many clients with timid/anxious cats. I proceed with caution when approaching them, keeping my noise level down. I try not to make loud sudden movements and keep a calm demeanor. Typically, by the end of the job, they have warmed up to me, depending on how many days I am sitting for them. Bribing them with treats (if permitted) is a go to of mine as well:)