Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

Meet my two feline supervisors: CornPop and Yoda. CornPop is, without question, the most particular cat I’ve ever known. He has a very specific snuggle routine, and every step has to happen in the exact right order. Skip a step, and the cuddle contract is immediately revoked. But if you make it to the correct phase of the ritual, he’ll happily let me snuggle his ridiculously fluffy tummy for as long as my heart can handle. Yoda is my handsome little gray shadow with the heart of a dog. He takes neighborhood security very seriously, follows me everywhere, and always wants to know what I’m doing. I’ve loved cats my whole life and my favorite thing about them is that no two are ever alike. Every cat has their own quirks, routines, and unique way of showing love—and getting to know those little personalities is one of life’s greatest joys!

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

A great cat sitter should ask thoughtful questions because every cat is different. They should learn your cat’s personality, routine, favorite hiding spots, feeding schedule, medications, and litter box habits. They should also ask if your cat has ever used certain spots in the house to urinate or defecate when stressed, upset, or trying to communicate something important. More than simply feeding your cat, a good sitter understands the importance of monitoring behavior. Cats are experts at hiding illness, so subtle changes matter. A sitter should notice changes in appetite, water intake, litter box use, energy level, grooming, hiding, or unusual behavior, and know when those changes may require contacting you or a veterinarian. The best cat sitters don’t just complete a checklist—they take the time to learn what is normal for your cat so they can quickly recognize when something isn’t.

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

I let the cat set the pace. I never force interaction and understand that trust is earned, not expected. I speak softly, move calmly, and give timid cats the space they need to feel safe. If they’re comfortable, I’ll use treats, toys, or simply sit quietly nearby to help them associate me with positive experiences. Throughout my visits, I pay close attention to changes in their behavior, appetite, litter box habits, and overall demeanor, since anxious cats often communicate through subtle changes. My goal is never to make a cat like me immediately—it’s to make them feel safe, respected, and well cared for while you’re away.