I'm Ariel
Cat Love Delivery Service
Book With Confidence
Meowtel provides customer support 365 days a year to help cat parents feel informed and supported at every step - including before a reservation is made.
In-home cat sitting visits typically include:
Ariel is experienced with 6 types of medications
Check if Ariel services your area
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I'm Ariel
Cat Sitting in Chicago, IL
Learn More About Ariel
What is your experience with cat sitting, and how long have you been doing it?
I've taken care of different friends' cats in my home while they traveled (several times for more than a year) and I've been a Meowtel sitter for 6 years.
What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?
Sigmund Freud himself said, "Time spent with a cat is never wasted". It's true that spending time with a cat is good for mental health and blood pressure. (Studies have shown! 🐱 : -) And they are so beautiful, mysterious and comforting. Or goofy, tricky and clever. Or aloof and superior. Or shy and sweet. Or cranky and scared. They are cats!
Can you tell us about your favorite cat sitting reservation?
Once after a long lap session, as I got up and got ready to go, the cat flung himself across the front door threshold like a protestor and grabbed my foot to prevent me from leaving.
Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?
My boss is a 15 year old black and white named Domino. He's very long. He likes to get on my lap and stretch out on his back from my collarbone to my knees with his big feet in the air. When he wants love or food he lays a paw gently on my arm then unsheathes his claws. He sleeps on my head now. Whenever I want a snack, so does he, and let's face it, that's very, very often.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a cat sitter?
First, you should just feel comfortable with the sitter and secure that they will take good care. Don't hesitate to look for someone else if you don't feel right. Not every sitter is perfect for every cat! Also, no amount of information is too much (for me). Show and explain everything, even if you think it should go without saying. If your kitty has any special instructions or needs, make sure your candidate is confident they can take care of them. Choose someone you like! Writing down any procedures that seem quite habitual and easy to you but may challenge the first time for a sitter is appreciated beyond words.
What is your typical process for working with a new cat parent?
Obviously, I want to know where everything is, exactly what to do and how to do it. I want to meet the kitty(ies)unless they're hiding under the bed and know as much as possible about their personality and needs. I want the cat parent to feel comfortable and know that everything is going to be alright and that I will be communicating and sending photos every visit. I ask if I will be able to text or call if I have a question. I want them to know I will never approach or try to engage a hiding, shy cat. I will let them come to me if they're ready.
How do you ensure the safety & security of the cats and the home while cat sitting?
I make sure the doors are locked and the windows have been set in a way that the parent feels will be sufficiently safe. I set any necessary alarms when I leave and make sure the cabinets are closed and any inside doors that the parent wants kept closed, toilet seats down, etc.
Are you usually available during holidays?
I'm usually available during holidays unless already booked up. For the winter holidays To be honest, my longtime people usually get me, so it may seem counterintuitive, but ask me closer to that time rather than earlier.
What is your favorite cat toy?
Stick toys always seem to be the most fun, but often shoelaces are well-loved and any suggestions of other particular favorites are very welcomed.
How do you handle cats that are particularly timid or anxious?
Patience is key. I talk softly as I go about taking care of things so a cat who is hiding can get used to my voice. I sit on the floor in a spot that doesn't block any way the cat may want to go and talk a little bit, but mostly just be quiet, patient and hope that after a little while the cat may venture out to see that I am not aggressive and won't encroach on their space. I let them come to me if they want. If they come out for a look, I do some slow blinking which is a friendly thing that shows I trust they won't attack when my eyes are closed. If they blink back that's a good start.
Medication Experience:
Skills:
In-home cat sitting visits typically include:
Ariel is experienced with 6 types of medications
Check if Ariel services your area
Unfortunately, Ariel does not cover your area right meow.
Dennis
August 16, 2020
Luna and Loki Say: We LOVE Ariel!! Dennis and Melanie Say: While we were gone, Ariel had to contend with workers showing up to fix some major water damage to our condo...which resulted in a fire alarm and CFD response. Having Ariel there to calm the cats dialed our stress down to zero! We *highly* recommend Ariel for ALL your pet sitting needs...with or without firefighters.
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Sarah
May 2, 2019
Ariel was a fantastic sitter. This was our first time using a cat sitter and it was such a great experience! Ariel promptly answered our reservation request, scheduled time to meet with us and our cat beforehand, and kept us updated with multiple pictures and text updates. Our cat is VERY energetic and needs to play, and Ariel did a great job playing with him and keeping him company. We will definitely be requesting Ariel again in the future!
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Mitch
December 31, 2018
Ariel was awesome and went above and beyond to help make our cats, and my wife and I, extra comfortable while we were away. I particularly liked how frequently she communicated with us, and how patient she was with our shy kitty who wouldn't play -- she even stayed extra time to get her to warm up and come out. We really appreciate the attention to detail, and will definitely be booking with Ariel again!
Read more
Sara
July 18, 2019
Ariel is an outstanding cat sitter. She truly understands cat behavior which I have found is pretty uncommon even amongst people who like cats. She knew not to force the interaction when meeting Pepper, letting Pepper come to her. This is so important with cats who have a lot of catitude and are terrritorial about their space. Pepper was so relaxed when we came home, it was obvious Ariel spent real time with her. Ariel also was very conscious of how much Pepper was eating, which I appreciated. I have already booked more cat sitting visits for Pep with Ariel. Ariel is the cat sitter you’ve been searching for! Book with her!
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Andrew
February 14, 2019
Ariel was awesome. She was great with the cats and sent daily pictures/videos of them. She also went above and beyond for us in dealing with some home security issues that arose while we were away. I would highly recommend her!
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Barbara
May 4, 2022
Ariel is an outstanding cat sitter. She keeps you informed with very detailed accounts of what is happening with photos. I would definitely work with her again.
Read moreService Area & Availability
Drop in visits rates
Ariel's is 25%
Holiday Surcharge
Due to high demand during holidays, sitters on Meowtel have the option to set their own holiday price increase, which can be found in the rates section of their profiles. If your reservation falls within three (3) days before and/or after a federal holiday, or on the holiday itself, a holiday surcharge, determined by your sitter, will be added to your reservation.
These are the date ranges in 2026 to which the holiday surcharge applies:
- January 1-4: New Year's 2026
- January 16-22: MLK Day
- February 13-19: Presidents Day
- May 22-28: Memorial Day
- June 16-22: Juneteenth
- July 1-7: July 4th
- September 4-10: Labor Day
- October 9-15: Columbus Day / Indigenous Peoples' Day
- November 8-14: Veterans Day
- November 23-29: Thanksgiving
- December 22-28: Christmas
- December 29-31: New Year's 2027
Ariel's holiday surcharge is 25%.
Communicate & Pay Through Meowtel
Using Meowtel's messaging and payment tools helps keep booking details in one place and gives you access to platform support if you need help.
300,000+
Reservations Completed
Trust & Safety
Every reservation is backed by the Meowtel Promise, giving you and your cat world-class customer support every step of the way.
If it doesn't feel like the right fit at the Meet & Greet, or if you have any concerns during the reservation, please call 1-844-MEOWTEL (1-844-636-9835) so we can help you re-book with another sitter.
Memorial Day is coming up soon (May 25th, 2026)
Cat sitters on Meowtel are usually pretty busy, don't forget to book your sitter!
Frequently Asked Questions
Reservations officially begin at 12:00 AM in the sitter's time zone on the start date. Cat Parents may cancel within 24 hours of booking and receive a full refund, as long as the reservation has not yet started. After the first 24 hours, the following cancellation rules apply:
- More than 48 hours before the reservation start date: Full refund. The sitter will not receive any earnings.
- 24–48 hours before the reservation start date: 50% refund. The sitter will earn 50% of their planned earnings.
- Within 24 hours of the reservation start date (or after it has begun): No refund. The sitter will earn 100% of their planned earnings.
All refunds are initially applied to the Cat Parent's Meowtel Account Balance for use toward a future reservation or tip. Funds may be returned to the original payment method at any time.
Meowtel is a marketplace that connects cat parents with independent sitters. For eligible reservations booked and paid for through Meowtel, the Meowtel Promise explains how we support cat parents if something unexpected comes up.
If it doesn't feel like a purrfect fit after a Meet & Greet or during a reservation, our support team is here to help at 1-844-Meowtel (1-844-636-9835). We'll take time to understand what happened and help you consider next steps, which could include help with a new reservation.
Chicago cat sitting rates will vary based on the sitter's experience and services, but the average price is $28.00. Prices depend on visit duration (20, 45, or 60 minutes) and whether you need drop-in visits or overnight stays.
Every cat sitter on Meowtel completes a background check. Ask your sitter about a free Meet & Greet so you (and your kitties!) can feel comfortable with your sitter before you leave.
Cats are territorial animals and don't do well in new environments. The presence of other cats, dogs, and even birds in kennels or animal hotels cause an immense amount of stress. This is why Meowtel was created, so tailored in-home care is brought to you.
We recommend booking daily visits to keep your cats in their routine and help minimize feline anxiety while you're away.
Each visit typically includes: feeding, refreshing water bowls, litter box scooping, tidying up, medications, updates with photos, lots of playtime, and any special requests. Ask your sitter about a free Meet & Greet!
Rating breakdown
Dennis
August 16, 2020
Luna and Loki Say: We LOVE Ariel!! Dennis and Melanie Say: While we were gone, Ariel had to contend with workers showing up to fix some major water damage to our condo...which resulted in a fire alarm and CFD response. Having Ariel there to calm the cats dialed our stress down to zero! We *highly* recommend Ariel for ALL your pet sitting needs...with or without firefighters.
Sarah
May 2, 2019
Ariel was a fantastic sitter. This was our first time using a cat sitter and it was such a great experience! Ariel promptly answered our reservation request, scheduled time to meet with us and our cat beforehand, and kept us updated with multiple pictures and text updates. Our cat is VERY energetic and needs to play, and Ariel did a great job playing with him and keeping him company. We will definitely be requesting Ariel again in the future!
Mitch
December 31, 2018
Ariel was awesome and went above and beyond to help make our cats, and my wife and I, extra comfortable while we were away. I particularly liked how frequently she communicated with us, and how patient she was with our shy kitty who wouldn't play -- she even stayed extra time to get her to warm up and come out. We really appreciate the attention to detail, and will definitely be booking with Ariel again!
Sara
July 18, 2019
Ariel is an outstanding cat sitter. She truly understands cat behavior which I have found is pretty uncommon even amongst people who like cats. She knew not to force the interaction when meeting Pepper, letting Pepper come to her. This is so important with cats who have a lot of catitude and are terrritorial about their space. Pepper was so relaxed when we came home, it was obvious Ariel spent real time with her. Ariel also was very conscious of how much Pepper was eating, which I appreciated. I have already booked more cat sitting visits for Pep with Ariel. Ariel is the cat sitter you’ve been searching for! Book with her!
Andrew
February 14, 2019
Ariel was awesome. She was great with the cats and sent daily pictures/videos of them. She also went above and beyond for us in dealing with some home security issues that arose while we were away. I would highly recommend her!
Barbara
May 4, 2022
Ariel is an outstanding cat sitter. She keeps you informed with very detailed accounts of what is happening with photos. I would definitely work with her again.
Dennis
March 11, 2020
This was the fourth time Ariel sat for our cats...I'll let Luna tell you what she thinks: "I have a quirky habit where I drag my favorite toy to a small, select set of humans I love and drop it at their feet. I branded Ariel as my new favorite human last week!"
Holly
July 10, 2019
Ariel is clearly a cat lover and I could have it no other way for my first sitter experience. She met us before we left town, kept our long-haired kitty cool in the heat, and was communicative throughout. It was important that we hire someone who would actually spend time with Hairriet, as it was 7/4 and she was on edge from the fireworks. I’d highly recommend! We’ll be asking Ariel to visit again I’m sure, it’s great to have a reliable professional checking in.
David
June 13, 2019
Ariel is as conscientious as they come. An issue came up while I was away for 10 days and she solved it cleanly and efficiently. Very professional.
Safa
April 18, 2019
What can I say about about my experience well to put it frankly I simply could not be happier! Neither can my 3 babies. A mommy knows and my cats are certainly happy with Ariel. She brushes, fed and kept their litter super clean. Also sent me pic and videos to keep my heart and mind at ease this lady is a Jem
Alex
May 31, 2024
Ariel took the best care of our cat for more than a week while we were on vacation. She’s incredibly kind and a great communicator- going above and beyond to send lots of photos and updates. I highly recommend her!!
Stacey
May 25, 2019
Ariel was great! The cats were happy and well taken care of. All instructions were followed. Ariel also went above and beyond to make shy little Rhoda more comfortable. Pictures and updates provided with every visit. Thanks, Ariel!
James
April 17, 2019
Ariel was fantastic! Our kitties enjoyed her companionship and she was quite attentive with them. She provided daily updates and photos which was great. We will absolutely use her again.
Kyla
November 18, 2018
I had a very positive experience with Ariel and knew my old kittie was in good hands. She even brought my cat some extra food when she was eating what I had left her :) So wonderful and I would recommend her to all my friends with cats.
Rachel
December 15, 2020
Ariel is great! Good communication, prompt, sent cute pictures, and I appreciated that I got to meet her before my trip. I know my kitty loved the company and good care.
Rebecca
May 15, 2019
Arial is excellent! Always attentive, sends many pictures. My cats are very happy and everything is in fantastic shape upon my return, I couldn't ask for more! Thank you, Ariel!
Julie
April 26, 2019
Ariel was extremely responsive and sent me pictures/videos while I was away. I know she took great care of my cats and I will gladly work with her again
Jessica
September 4, 2018
Ariel went above and beyond to comfort my cats and even sent me videos of them playing, which is always a point of relief for me. She definitely knows what she’s doing. Thank you Ariel!!!
Dmitri
August 22, 2018
Ariel did a fantastic job with our elderly cat, Miss Bean! Very attentive to the details and our cat's needs. Ariel treated our cat as her own. We highly recommend Ariel and will be a repeat client!
Dennis
October 14, 2018
This was our first time using a sitter service for our cats...Ariel was *wonderful*. So wonderful, we think our cats were disappointed to see us return :) We will definitely use Meowtel and Ariel in the future!
Christopher
March 18, 2019
Ariel was a fantastic sitter and was able to get our shy kitty to come out an play! She sends photos and videos daily so you know that your little one is taken care of.
James
July 9, 2019
Ariel is fantastic once again. She has taken care of our kiddos several times now and they enjoy her company. She takes several photos and many updates give you great confidence in their care. Thanks again Ariel!
Naomi
November 3, 2024
My cats always love visits from Ariel when I’m out of town! She’s very responsive, kind, and sends lots of photos. thanks again for taking care of the girls!
Ben
June 15, 2022
Ariel was great! Very conscientious about taking good care of our two cats while we were away.
Holli
November 15, 2020
Ariel is AMAZING! Communicative, friendly, caring and kitty approved (which is most important). I can't say enough about how happy I am with my experience. Thank you, Ariel!
Anniina
February 12, 2020
Ariel took wonderful care of my furbabies and kept me posted on how they were doing throughout my trip, so I didn’t have to stress or worry at all! Thank you!!
Kara
June 12, 2019
Ariel and Slate had a great time together! She took care of everything and left the sweetest note. You can tell she truly has a heart for animals, and I couldn't ask for more!
Melissa
September 29, 2019
Ariel is always so lovely and responsive. She is a true cat whisperer & lover and my cat feels really calm and enjoys it when Ariel comes around-and she doesn’t like a lot of people!! I could not recommend anyone better.
Anom
February 11, 2022
Ariel did an excellent job taking care of our 2 cats while we were out of town. We highly recommend her to anyone looking for a reliable and caring cat sitter.
Naomi
August 25, 2024
Ariel was lovely! She sent lots of timely updates on my cats, and they clearly really enjoyed her visit. Will definitely book again
Yelena
May 31, 2022
Ariel is a wonderful sitter! My cat was very happy when I got back from my trip.
Dennis
March 11, 2019
Today our cats asked us when we would be leaving again so they could have more "Ariel Time".
Jessica
November 30, 2018
Ariel is the best! She takes amazing care of Riley when we're away. She always goes above and beyond. Would definitely recommend her!
Melissa
September 14, 2018
Ariel was absolutely amazing! I can not recommend Ariel enough. She really did take excellent care of my cat who was so relaxed when I returned from being away for a lengthy period of time. I have no hesitation in recommending her to anyone and will definitely be asking her to cat-sit in the future for sure!
Adam
July 11, 2019
Ariel was great. Very responsive. You can tell she really cares and is very conscientious. Will definitely be requesting Ariel again in the future!
Mitch
April 20, 2019
Always a pleasure having Ariel watch our cats! She goes ‘above and beyond the call of duty’ to make them feel comfortable while we are away. :)
Hubie
This month
Ariel is the best. She takes great care of my cats and sends tons of pictures…they clearly adore her.
Hubie
February 17, 2026
Cat
December 29, 2025
Naomi
July 4, 2025
Ariel is always the best. my kitties love her
Hubie
May 16, 2025
Ariel is always awesome. She sends excellent updates and tons of pictures. she is always my first choice of sitter.
Hubie
May 11, 2025
Mark
February 24, 2025
Emily
January 23, 2025
Rachel
November 13, 2024
Yelena
October 23, 2024
Emily
October 18, 2024
Yelena
August 21, 2024
Rachel
August 16, 2024
Emily
August 6, 2024
My kitties love Ariel! She takes great care of my babies so I know they will be safe and happy while I'm gone :)
Josh
July 7, 2024
Emily
July 6, 2024
Ariel is my kind of cat person I'm so happy when I know she is spending time with my babies ☺️☺️
Hubie
June 11, 2024
Ariel is amazing! Her pictures and captions are always great and our cats adore her.
Josh
May 22, 2024
Emily
May 1, 2024
Emily
April 25, 2024
Yelena
January 14, 2024
Yelena
November 22, 2023
Hubie
October 10, 2023
Ariel is, as always, the best. Seriuosly, it has gotten to the point where we are considering planning travel around her availability.
Hubie
September 27, 2023
Ariel is incredible!
Hubie
May 25, 2023
Ariel is, without a doubt, the best sitter we have ever had!
Gina
November 3, 2022
Thank you, Ariel, for taking care of my boys! It was a relief to know they were well taken care of in our absence.
Anom
February 11, 2022
Ariel was terrific. We Highly recommend her!
Hubie
April 29, 2021
Ariel is the best...seriously, the absolute best.
Dennis
July 24, 2020
Ten Stars...each of our cats clicked FIVE STARS!
Hubie
March 5, 2020
I could write a long review but it is easier to simply say that Ariel is the best pet sitter ever.
Jessica
February 3, 2020
Ariel always goes above and beyond!
Hubie
October 21, 2019
Ariel is amazing. She takes great care of the cats and sends terrific pictures.
David
August 7, 2019
As always, she was dependable and communicative.
Melissa
June 27, 2019
Ariel is just the best!! She is so caring and nurturing of my cat and is very happy to help wherever possible. I can't recommend her enough!
Hubie
May 27, 2019
Ariel is great! She is always our first choice when we are in need of a pet sitter.
Amber
April 19, 2019
Ariel is a superstar! She is wonderful with both our cats - going above and beyond. I know that I can trust her to spend time with them and care for them as if they were her own. I highly recommend Ariel to anyone who needs an outstanding cat-sitter.
Chris
March 19, 2019
Very nice and sent detailed info about our cat.
David
March 18, 2019
Excellent communication and care.
Hubie
February 17, 2019
Ariel was terrific. She stayed in contact and seemed to connect well with our cats. I highly recommend her and plan to use Ariel as a pet sitter the next time I travel.
Amber
December 27, 2018
Ariel was amazing with our two kitties. She took excellent care of them and sent great photos and notes about each visit. I highly recommend her to anyone needing a cat sitter!
Ceridwynne
December 21, 2018
Ariel is kind and reliable. I felt completely comfortable leaving Kitty in her hands.
Jessica
November 29, 2018
Fantastic per usual- Ariel is the best!
Free Cancellation (48+ hrs)