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

I’ve spent years caring for my own cats as well as fostering cats and kittens through my local humane society, which has given me experience with a wide range of personalities, ages, and care needs. I’ve cared for shy cats, energetic kittens, multi-cat households, and rescue cats who needed extra patience and trust-building. Through both fostering and pet care, I’ve learned how important consistency, communication, and understanding cat behavior are in helping cats feel safe and comfortable while their owners are away.

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

What I enjoy most about cat sitting is earning a cat’s trust and getting to know their unique personality. Every cat is different — some want nonstop playtime and attention, while others prefer quiet companionship and slow blinks from across the room. I genuinely love figuring out what makes each cat feel safe, comfortable, and happy. As someone who has fostered cats and kittens, I know how important patience, consistency, and calm energy can be, especially for shy or anxious cats. There’s something really rewarding about seeing a nervous cat warm up over time or getting updates from owners saying their cat seemed relaxed and content while they were away. I also truly enjoy giving pet parents peace of mind. I know how hard it can be to leave your pets, so I try to provide the same level of care and attention I’d want for my own animals.

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

I have 6 kitties if my own - Jack, Lucky, Gypsy, Echo, Pixel, Bonnie. I also always have foster kitties from our local humane society.

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

I’d recommend looking for someone who genuinely understands cat behavior and respects that every cat has a different personality and comfort level. A good cat sitter does more than feed and clean litter boxes — they pay attention to routines, behavior changes, stress signals, and the little things that help cats feel safe while you’re away. It’s also important to find someone communicative and reliable. Personally, I think updates, photos, and consistency make a huge difference in helping pet parents feel comfortable while they’re gone. I’d also encourage new customers to choose someone who is patient, especially if they have shy, senior, rescue, or high-energy cats. Building trust with cats takes time, and having a sitter who understands that can completely change the experience for both the cat and the owner.

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

I like to start by getting to know both the cat parent and their cats — their routines, personalities, preferences, and any special care needs. Every cat is different, so I tailor my approach to what makes them feel safest and most comfortable. During visits, I focus on consistent care, playtime or companionship, litter and feeding routines, and keeping stress levels low. I also send regular updates and photos so cat parents can relax knowing their cats are happy and well cared for.

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

I prioritize both the cats’ safety and the security of the home during every visit. I’m very careful with doors, windows, gates, and anything that could create an unsafe situation for curious cats. I also pay close attention to routines, behavior changes, eating habits, and overall well-being to make sure the cats stay healthy and comfortable while their owners are away. For the home itself, I’m respectful, dependable, and mindful of security at all times. I make sure everything is locked properly before leaving and follow any instructions the cat parent provides. I treat every home and pet with the same level of care and attention I would want for my own.

What is your favorite cat toy?

Honestly, wand toys are probably my favorite because almost every cat has their own version of “hunter mode” that comes out with them. It’s always fun seeing their personalities show through during playtime — especially the cats who act shy until the toy comes out. I’m also a big fan of puzzle toys and enrichment activities that keep cats mentally stimulated, especially for high-energy or curious cats.

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

I handle timid or anxious cats with patience, calm energy, and respect for their boundaries. I never force interaction and instead let the cat warm up at their own pace. Some cats want space at first, while others respond well to quiet companionship, gentle play, or consistent routines. Through fostering and caring for different personalities, I’ve learned that trust with cats is earned, not rushed. My goal is always to create a calm, low-stress environment where they feel safe and comfortable while their humans are away.