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

I grew up with cats and have been cat/pet sitting since I was 16. I decided to try pet sitting full time in 2019 and have been doing it ever since! It truly is my dream job! I am familiar with most automatic feeder and litter box set ups. I also have worked with cats who have diabetes, Thyroid problems, and Kidney disease. I can administer insulin shots, oral pills, and trans dermal medication if needed.

Can you tell us about your favorite cat sitting reservation?

My favorite cat sitting has to be when I watched a sister and brother duo for 8 months while their owner worked abroad. The owner let me know that they are very very skittish and will probably not come out for me at all during the eight months he would be away. Especially the female cat. I made sure to at least get my eyes on them each day to make sure they were ok and gave them space during our visits to not stress them out. Slowly but surely they started to feel comfortable enough to sit with me in the same room, but at a distance. After about 4 months the male cat initiated contact and just melted in my lap which felt like a huge victory! The female cat followed soon after and the owner was so shocked, but so happy they came out for me!

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

I sadly do not have any cats of my own currently, but grew up with two cats Lady and Kitty (I didn't pick very creative names as a kid haha). Lady was a stray kitten we found on our front porch and Kitty was a rescue. They fit into our family perfectly and put up with my sister and I's antics. They loved to be pushed around in a baby stroller or on a skate board. I miss them dearly!

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

Firstly, I require a meet and greet for all new clients before accepting a booking. This is to ensure I am a good fit for the potential client and their cat(s). I try to be as thorough as possible and like to go over the following things: your cats routine, what their day typically looks like, feeding schedules, litter box habits, any medical conditions, medications, allergies, and any potential quirks they may have that I should know about.

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

All cats will be inside for the duration of the visits while you are gone and all windows will remain closed to avoid them slipping out. I do not let cats outside while under my care.

Are you usually available during holidays?

Yes, I work every holiday of the year!

What is your favorite cat toy?

I love using any kind of wand toy. I find the wand toy called "Go Cat Da Bird" to be really popular with playful kitties!

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

I give anxious and timid cats a lot of space. I try to be quiet and make slow movements as to not stress them out. If they're more receptive to interacting around meal times Id prefer to schedule visits around then. Food and treats can be a way to a timid kitty's heart and will help them build a positive association to me.