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

I have house/kid/pet/garden/houseplant-sat in most imaginable combinations for about 20 years. If I have a list of instructions, I'll follow them to a T!

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

Getting to spend time with cats and giving pet parents the peace of mind that their cats not only have their physical needs met, but that they're happy and cared for.

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

Yes, I currently have 4! 2 middle aged girls who both love belly rubs so much they drool; Dot who's a roly-poly tuxedo and Wynne who's a sweet orange tabby. And also Nifl (Niffy) and Jotun (Yoyo), who are goofy teen torbie-simese sisters that reach up and tap you with their paws to get attention.

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

Once we confirm a reservation, I reach out via private message on the app to ask for a good time to come over and get the lay of the land! It's usually a 10-30 minute meeting where I learn the desired schedule, see where things like litter, toys, and cleaning supplies are, meet the kitties, and establish expectations. I always ask if they want an update each time I visit, if they want pictures, and whether they prefer to communicate through the app or text. Easy peasy!

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

I make sure to lay eyes on each kitty every visit, double check any automatic feeders to make sure they're still functioning, report any changes in kitty behavior, and double check the door is locked behind me each time.

Are you usually available during holidays?

Barring any major trips planned far beforehand, yes! All the family I visit for holidays is local and I have no trouble taking a break to go visit kitties.

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

Absolutely let the cat take it in their own time. I'll make sure I see them, so I know they're okay, but generally I sit across the room or down the hall not facing them directly so they can get a peek at me without me looking back at them. If they approach, I'll probably make quiet encouraging noises and move at their pace, but even if they never come out for pets, I putter around the house and talk quietly or hum without me being intrusive. I might park myself somewhere central and read for a while so they can have company! I'm also not above a treat bribe or two 😸