I'm Lauren
Lauren's Chi City Kitty Care
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:
Lauren is experienced with 5 types of medications
Check if Lauren services your area
Unfortunately, Lauren does not cover your area right meow.
I'm Lauren
Cat Sitting in Chicago, IL
I am Lauren--Crazy cat lady, conservation biologist, zoo evaluator, Broadway enthusiast (except CATS, it is just purr-plexing), and dedicated cat sitter here to serve your city kitties. Mama to part-time chaos goblin, part-time snuggle bunny, 1.5-year-old Randolph Monroe, and late, fickle, 15-year-old Hudson, I have lots of experience with the cat-itude of two very tenacious, yet very different tabbies.
Cats have pretty much been constant figures in my adult life. In addition to Randolph, my little family of three (Hudson and husband too) traveled with The Lion King tour for a number of years, and I studied how Canada lynx use habitat in Minnesota for my master’s degree.
My love of all things cats made me the go-to cat sitter among my friends and colleagues. It taught me the many personalities and needs of different cats, but... Meow me to introduce myself.
I am Lauren--Crazy cat lady, conservation biologist, zoo evaluator, Broadway enthusiast (except CATS, it is just purr-plexing), and dedicated cat sitter here to serve your city kitties. Mama to part-time chaos goblin, part-time snuggle bunny, 1.5-year-old Randolph Monroe, and late, fickle, 15-year-old Hudson, I have lots of experience with the cat-itude of two very tenacious, yet very different tabbies.
Cats have pretty much been constant figures in my adult life. In addition to Randolph, my little family of three (Hudson and husband too) traveled with The Lion King tour for a number of years, and I studied how Canada lynx use habitat in Minnesota for my master’s degree.
My love of all things cats made me the go-to cat sitter among my friends and colleagues. It taught me the many personalities and needs of different cats, but it was Hudson and his chronic illnesses that really prepared me for anything and everything.
I have extensive experience with basic daily care tasks, kitty hygiene, medication administration, diabetic management, belly rubs, and sometimes just hanging out and giving kitty some space to ponder the meaning of life.
Meow down to business. During my visit I will:
-- Greet your king(s) and/or queen(s) as any loyal subject would
-- Provide fresh water and clean food and water bowls
-- Feed your cat(s) based on your guidelines
-- Administer any medication, if necessary, according to your instructions
-- Clean litter box(es) by scooping or changing litter
-- Provide enrichment through play and affection
I live in the Old Town/Gold Coast area and prefer to keep my travel distance within a half hour, so please message me to discuss whether you are within my service radius. And since a meet & greet is like a first date, it's the best way for your kitty to get to know me and for me to learn what your needs are as the pet parent.
I personally understand the stress and challenge of finding a compassionate, responsible, and meticulous cat sitter. Look no fur-ther! I am here to set your mind at ease by providing the purr-fect cat sitting service!
Learn More About Lauren
What is your experience with cat sitting, and how long have you been doing it?
I have been cat sitting intermittently for friends and family for nearly 16 years! I've worked with Maine Coons with a lot to say, chunky boys that love to snuggle, and sassy gals that do things on their own terms.
What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?
I love cat sitting because it gives me the opportunity to wrangle cats of all personalities, shapes, sizes and attitudes. I also find that I've fallen in love with each and every one of "my kitties."
Are you usually available during holidays?
I am indeed available during holidays! As Chicago transplants, it's a bit of a hike to our families on the east coast, so my husband and I spend holidays here in the Windy City.
What is your favorite cat toy?
Randolph loves those plastic springs. They are under every surface in our house so you know they're good! He also loves those bird on a pole suctioned cupped to the floor things. We have them in all major rooms of our home. Hudson loved his Yeowww catnip toys! We could smell them from across the room so they must be heavenly for the fur babies. They come in a bunch of adorable shapes--apple, lemon, banana, pumpkin, fish, rainbow. Great for sniffing, licking and kicking!
How do you handle cats that are particularly timid or anxious?
A timid or anxious cat just needs space and time. I myself have been likened to a cat--extroverted introvert here--and I too need time and space to become confident and ready for the vulnerability needed to get to know someone new. Thus to care for a shy or nervous cat I offer everything they need, a soft and comforting voice, welcoming body language, and just the opportunity to come to me when and if they are ready to become buddies...and if they are not, they will still get the best care and as much affection as I can give from across the room.
Medication Experience:
In-home cat sitting visits typically include:
Lauren is experienced with 5 types of medications
Check if Lauren services your area
Unfortunately, Lauren does not cover your area right meow.
Maeve
September 7, 2026
I could not have asked for a better cat sitter. this was my first time being away from my fur baby, and Lauren made sure to keep me updated with every visit. she sent pictures every visit, offered to stop by extra if my kitty needed anything, and was super responsive. she took on this booking last minute, and went above and beyond. I felt so much less stressed knowing my kitty was in such loving and responsible care.
Read more
Tony
This month
Lauren was absolutely amazing and took fantastic care of our boy. She was incredibly conscientious, communicative, and followed our care instructions to a tee. She went above and beyond, demonstrated genuine concern for our fur baby's well-being, and even vacuumed and washed his food dishes daily! Without a doubt we will book her again!
Read more
Gabrielle
April 25, 2026
We couldn’t have asked for a better cat sitter. From the moment we left for Europe, we felt completely at ease knowing our two cats were in such caring and capable hands. Not only were all of their basic needs met perfectly, but Lauren truly went above and beyond in every possible way. We received regular updates, photos, and little notes that made us feel connected even from across the ocean. It was clear our cats were not just being “looked after,” but genuinely cared for and given attention, affection, and playtime. One of our cats can be a bit shy, and seeing her come out of her shell was such a reassuring sign of the trust that was built. Our home was also left spotless, and every detail was handled thoughtfully and responsibly. It’s rare to find someone who combines professionalism with such genuine warmth and dedication. We came home to two happy, relaxed cats—which says everything. We would absolutely trust Lauren again without hesitation and recommend them to anyone looking for exceptional pet care.
Read more
Lucy
August 23, 2026
Lauren was fantastic! She is detail oriented and sent photos and thorough descriptions of her visits. My cat requires meds twice a day, and I felt really comfortable leaving her care in Lauren’s hands. I look forward to working with Lauren again!
Read more
Farren
This week
I’ve had Lauren watch my three cats multiple times now! Every single time she goes above and beyond for them and their care. She also is great about communication, cute updates, photos, and noticing anything that might seem off. my cats feel safe and comfortable with her and so do I :)
Read more
Nicolas
June 4, 2026
Lauren was amazing! She took such good care of my kitties, adjusting to changing plans easily and with precision. She even got one of my unfriendly cats to play with her and she gave her belly rubs! Lauren is as good if not better than 5 stars!
Read moreService Area & Availability
Drop in visits rates
Lauren's is 30%
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
These are the date ranges in 2027 to which the holiday surcharge applies:
- January 1-4: New Year's 2027
- January 15-21: MLK Day
- February 12-18: Presidents Day
- May 28-June 3: Memorial Day
- June 16-22: Juneteenth
- July 1-7: July 4th
- September 3-9: Labor Day
- October 8-14: Columbus Day / Indigenous Peoples' Day
- November 8-14: Veterans Day
- November 22-28: Thanksgiving
- December 22-28: Christmas
- December 29-31: New Year's 2028
Lauren's holiday surcharge is 30%.
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.
375,000+
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.
Veterans Day is coming up soon (November 11th, 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 $30.00. 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 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 Meet & Greet!
Rating breakdown
Maeve
September 7, 2026
I could not have asked for a better cat sitter. this was my first time being away from my fur baby, and Lauren made sure to keep me updated with every visit. she sent pictures every visit, offered to stop by extra if my kitty needed anything, and was super responsive. she took on this booking last minute, and went above and beyond. I felt so much less stressed knowing my kitty was in such loving and responsible care.
Tony
This month
Lauren was absolutely amazing and took fantastic care of our boy. She was incredibly conscientious, communicative, and followed our care instructions to a tee. She went above and beyond, demonstrated genuine concern for our fur baby's well-being, and even vacuumed and washed his food dishes daily! Without a doubt we will book her again!
Gabrielle
April 25, 2026
We couldn’t have asked for a better cat sitter. From the moment we left for Europe, we felt completely at ease knowing our two cats were in such caring and capable hands. Not only were all of their basic needs met perfectly, but Lauren truly went above and beyond in every possible way. We received regular updates, photos, and little notes that made us feel connected even from across the ocean. It was clear our cats were not just being “looked after,” but genuinely cared for and given attention, affection, and playtime. One of our cats can be a bit shy, and seeing her come out of her shell was such a reassuring sign of the trust that was built. Our home was also left spotless, and every detail was handled thoughtfully and responsibly. It’s rare to find someone who combines professionalism with such genuine warmth and dedication. We came home to two happy, relaxed cats—which says everything. We would absolutely trust Lauren again without hesitation and recommend them to anyone looking for exceptional pet care.
Lucy
August 23, 2026
Lauren was fantastic! She is detail oriented and sent photos and thorough descriptions of her visits. My cat requires meds twice a day, and I felt really comfortable leaving her care in Lauren’s hands. I look forward to working with Lauren again!
Farren
This week
I’ve had Lauren watch my three cats multiple times now! Every single time she goes above and beyond for them and their care. She also is great about communication, cute updates, photos, and noticing anything that might seem off. my cats feel safe and comfortable with her and so do I :)
Nicolas
June 4, 2026
Lauren was amazing! She took such good care of my kitties, adjusting to changing plans easily and with precision. She even got one of my unfriendly cats to play with her and she gave her belly rubs! Lauren is as good if not better than 5 stars!
Sheila
September 23, 2026
Lauren put me at ease. And that's when I first met her. I knew she would take care of my babies, Stella & Jackson. I knew she would follow the instructions. What I didn't know was that she would exceed my expectations. She was so caring and left me such detailed messages of her visits, with pictures, which helped me feel good and enjoy my time away.
Maddie
September 5, 2026
Lauren is a stellar sitter. She put my worries at ease while I was out of town and followed instructions to a T. I appreciated her post-visit updates and photos. I will certainly be hiring her in the future!
Stefanie
September 2, 2026
This was our second time having Lauren take care of our boys and she was absolutely wonderful! She is prompt, responsive, incredibly detailed in her updates and very thorough in her care. I cannot imagine a better cat sitter for our babies and I trust her entirely!
Rachel
This month
Lauren was awesome! She took notes and asked great questions when we did out walk through and showed that same level of attention and care when the time came for her to watch my cats. Would highly recommend her!
Sara
May 22, 2026
Lauren was the absolute best. From the beginning, she was communicative, curious about Quincy’s likes and dislikes, and was so sweet to our boy from the moment she met him. She was reliably there every day, sending very thorough breakdowns and lots of pictures. I absolutely trust Lauren with our boy and will be definitely be asking her to watch him in the future!
Brandi
November 29, 2024
Lauren is amazing and patient with our kitties. our 15 yo kitty required some meds while we were out of town and was not keeping his food down. Lauren sent updates and immediately went into clean up mode, which was not required, but very generous of her.
Kristin
April 8, 2026
Very responsible and caring towards cats! Romeo is “socially awkward” but Lauren brought out his inner model with the daily photo shoots! I would trust Lauren with any cat! thank you for taking such great care of my son!
Nikkilyn
June 30, 2025
Lauren was amazing, as she was last time I used her. She provides detailed updates about the visit and how things went, including what the cats ate and the litter box situation. She administered multiple meds to my very wiggly cat and swept up the floors from my messy eaters! I would absolutely book her again.
Gabrielle
September 23, 2025
Lauren treated our fur babies like they were her own. She followed every instruction to the letter and gave us frequent and thorough updates throughout the weekend. I would hire her again and again!
Fatima
January 3, 2025
I am so happy that I found Lauren to watch my cat Demeter! Lauren was always very quick at responding and gave me lots of updates (with pictures). If I ever needed anything, like checking the kitty camera that Demeter knocked over, Lauren was quick to respond and address my concerns. She was great with Demeter, who can be quite shy, and I will definitely be booking Lauren again :)
Julie
August 28, 2026
Lauren is absolutely the best. Every time I’m away I know my fur baby is well taken care of and it’s the ultimate peace of mind. super responsive if I have questions, and in turn, Lauren takes detailed notes and great pictures. highly recommend!
Madeline
January 2, 2025
Lauren did a great job watching my cat over the holidays! I have never used a sitter before and I was nervous to leave my clingy kitty, but knowing Lauren was taking care of him really set my mind at ease. She sent very detailed updates and cute pics!
Harriet
July 7, 2025
Lauren was amazing, my cats loved her and she went above and beyond by cleaning the food mats, scooping litter, and sending me lots of updates and photos! Will definitely book with Lauren again!
Mary
This month
Lauren took excellent care of my cat, and I appreciated the very detailed summary of the visit and cute photos she sent.
Harriet
November 15, 2025
Lauren is my go-to sitter for my two cats. She consistently goes above and beyond to take care of my cats and sends detailed updates and pictures. Having her as a sitter makes me feel comfortable traveling knowing my cats are safe and well taken care of! Thanks Lauren!
Miranda
March 31, 2025
We’ve used Lauren a few time for our kitty! She’s always so responsive and takes really good care of her! We have a playful outgoing cat, so she’s really good at playing and keeping her company! We got really lucky finding a good reliable cat sitter, we recommend her to all our friends.
Ellie
December 4, 2024
Lauren sent great updates, was clearly detail-oriented with our cat’s behavior, and was patient with our cat who sometimes takes a while to warm up to new people. She gave us peace of mind while traveling!
Fatima
October 4, 2025
Lauren was very communicative as always. She was also quick to bring up any potential concerns/hazards and keep my cat safe! She was also great about tidying up and keeping the space clean.
Lucy
This month
Lauren is fantastic! She has great communication and attention to detail and goes above and beyond to tidy up after our cat.
Brandi
September 3, 2024
we had an excellent first time experience with Lauren over the holiday weekend! we scheduled a meet and greet prior to make sure both sides were comfortable with the process, which was so helpful! she was very attentive, tidy and sent great updates during her visits. very thankful for her services!
Stefanie
May 6, 2026
I cannot say enough wonderful things about Lauren! She went so far above and beyond in taking care of our fur boys, she treated them as her own! I was so anxious to use a cat sitter for the first time but Lauren was so wonderful that I was able to completely relax while I was away. She sent detailed messages and updates, tons of pictures, and took excellent care of our babies and our home. I would highly recommend Lauren to take care of your kitties!
Kathy
May 28, 2025
I have used Lauren several times and she is amazing!!! I know that when she is caring for Hawthorne, everything will be fine. She shows that she truly cares and my kitty absolutely adores her and he can be hard to deal with. I will request Lauren again because I know I can enjoy my trip knowing my baby is in good hands!!
Blake
January 16, 2026
Lauren was great! She took excellent care of our cats, did everything we asked, and went above and beyond to make sure they were happy and comfortable. We felt completely at ease knowing she was caring for them.
Chelsie
January 14, 2026
Lauren is wonderful!! My kitties, Rambo and Lily, love her visits. And, I always feel at ease knowing she provides great updates and care while I am away from home.
Dimitrios
May 25, 2026
Lauren was amazing! She did such a good job with my boy Louis, and provided detailed updates as well as plenty of pictures while I was out. She was so good about taking care of him, and my orange boy definitely enjoyed having her come around. Thank you for your help and support!
Kathy
April 21, 2026
As always, Lauren was wonderful! I can go away and know that Hawthorne will be well taken care of and I don't need to worry. He adores her and doesn't even seem to mind that I'm gone.
Fatima
January 5, 2026
Lauren is great as always and Demeter loves her so much! She is extremely attentive and communicative, which takes away any worry and stress with leaving your cat for a few days!
Sari
September 7, 2025
Lauren was very patient with my shy kitty. She followed my instructions and gave my cat the space she needed to get comfortable with a new sitter.
Kelsey
September 9, 2024
Lauren was amazing!! She watched my needy cats during my wedding weekend, administering medication and providing consistent, detailed updates!
Fatima
May 14, 2026
Amazing as always! Lauren is so detail-oriented and thorough, and she sends fun and in-depth updates. I am never worried about Demeter when Lauren is visiting her!
Asha
November 9, 2025
Lauren is fantastic! Extremely communicative and went above and beyond!
Alice
April 9, 2025
Lauren was just fantastic at taking care of my old cat Isa. I could feel when I came back that Isa had an amazing experience as well!
Logan
This week
Kristin
This week
Chelsie
This month
Kelsey
This month
Dimitrios
This month
Lindsay
This month
Lauren was great! Our cats were in wonderful hands. Lauren went above and beyond. Would definitely recommend for your future cat sitting needs!
Brandi
This month
Gabrielle
This month
Julie
This month
Daniel
This month
Stephen
This month
Chelsie
This month
Chelsie
This month
Alec
September 28, 2026
Stephen
September 27, 2026
Chelsie
September 23, 2026
Gage
September 21, 2026
Chelsie
September 12, 2026
Gabrielle
September 12, 2026
Julie
September 8, 2026
Gage
September 7, 2026
Alec
August 26, 2026
Asha
August 25, 2026
Gage
August 18, 2026
Chelsie
August 16, 2026
Chelsie
August 16, 2026
Kelsey
August 10, 2026
Gabrielle
August 10, 2026
Blake
August 7, 2026
Samantha
July 26, 2026
Lauren was great! she was flexible with some of my plans changing and very communacive. she took great care of my cat!
Rachel
July 25, 2026
Chelsie
July 23, 2026
Chelsie
July 18, 2026
Kelsey
July 12, 2026
Chelsie
July 8, 2026
Chelsie
July 8, 2026
Stephen
June 26, 2026
Chelsie
June 23, 2026
Chelsie
June 13, 2026
Brandi
June 1, 2026
Chelsie
May 26, 2026
Chelsie
May 19, 2026
Kelsey
May 17, 2026
Stephen
May 12, 2026
Chelsie
May 10, 2026
Emily
May 6, 2026
Lauren was very diligent and communicative. My cats had a great time with her!
Bonnie
April 21, 2026
Megan
April 21, 2026
Asha
April 17, 2026
Chelsie
April 6, 2026
Megan
March 24, 2026
Brantley
March 22, 2026
Harriet
March 9, 2026
Lauren is an amazing cat sitter and the only one I’d trust with my two babies while away on vacation! I’ve been on multiple longer trips and she’s taken great care of my two cats! She sends detailed updates, goes above and beyond, and sends lots of cute pictures while I’m gone. Thank you Lauren!!
Chelsie
March 7, 2026
Chelsie
February 27, 2026
Harriet
February 23, 2026
Megan
February 20, 2026
Chelsie
February 3, 2026
Gage
February 2, 2026
Everything went very well. Lauren was attentive, responsive, and great to work with. My cat seemed to really like her.
Kelsey
January 25, 2026
Omar
January 4, 2026
Megan
January 2, 2026
Theresa
December 29, 2025
Kelsey
December 14, 2025
Brantley
December 9, 2025
Chelsie
December 2, 2025
Asha
November 30, 2025
Lauren is fantastic! She’s communicative, thorough, and the kitties love hanging out with her.
Alice
November 30, 2025
Alice
October 23, 2025
Kelsey
September 21, 2025
Kelsey
September 13, 2025
Kelsey
September 2, 2025
Brandi
August 30, 2025
Brantley
August 18, 2025
Alice
August 7, 2025
Brandi
July 29, 2025
Stephen
July 18, 2025
Stephen
July 17, 2025
Stephen
June 19, 2025
Lauren was a terrific fit for us and our two girls! She waa highly communicative throughout, and incredibly thoughtful. Would/will absolutely have her back in the future. A++! 😺
Brantley
May 24, 2025
Brandi
May 14, 2025
Kelsey
May 12, 2025
Seena
May 9, 2025
Kelsey
March 31, 2025
Fatima
March 30, 2025
Kelsey
March 24, 2025
Brandi
March 13, 2025
Kelsey
February 12, 2025
Theresa
December 29, 2024
Kelsey
December 15, 2024
Brantley
December 11, 2024
Kelsey
December 8, 2024
Maegan
November 5, 2024
Kelsey
October 29, 2024
Maegan
September 19, 2024
Brandi
September 3, 2024
Meowtel
June 28, 2024
Lauren is a background-checked cat sitter in the Chicago area. Their profile has been verified and their references have been checked by Meowtel.