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 our animals know that I'm cheating on them. They smell it as soon as I walk in the door.

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?

I had to put my sweet Tuxi to rest on 8/29/2025, which was incredibly earth shattering. I had her 15 years and she developed cancer in May of 2025. It was one of the hardest decisions I've had to make. Since then, my husband and I have adopted two gray/black tabby kittens. They are currently about 1 year and a half old. They are boisterous, energetic and love ganging up on our Yorkshire Terrier/Min Pin pup. They all play well and I love them dearly. Their names are Figgy and Della. Our pup is named Dash. We call Dash the Sheriff, and the kitties are the Outlaws. He patrols the streets AKA our house at night to make sure the Outlaws don't burn the house down. This story was developed from the noises we hear while we're getting ready for bed. :)

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 while you're away. Written instructions for your cat sitter are always a good idea. Leaving instructions eliminates sitters forgetting specific needs.

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 - My kitties loves it!

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:)