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

My first cat sitting experience was in 2009. I took care of four cats and a dog for a month. One of the cats had to have special food and medicine. Her cat parent usually put her in the bathroom to eat and get her pill so that the others wouldn’t interfere. After that, over the years before I found Meowtel, there have been two people I did cat sitting for. One was a former downstairs neighbor who had two cats that I became endeared with and took care of on many occasions when she went out of town.

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

I enjoy meeting new cats, the ability to make cats and cat parents feel comfortable while they’re away from each other. It gives me good feels to be the kind of cat sitter I would want for my purr-babies. As a true cat lady, I am a little honored to be able to keep company with so many different cats. Most of all, the cats who return the love are unexpected, but wonderful!

Can you tell us about your favorite cat sitting reservation?

I have several favorites. But one reservation that really made me smile was a sweet little cat who jumped up onto the couch and scooched right up to me as close as she could get, the day of our meet and greet. It was heartwarming 😻 She was like, no worries. We’re good!

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

I’ve had cats on and off since I was a teenager. My most recent cat, Ginger lived to be 19 years old. Some of my former cats' names were Risa, Rufus, Chino, Hazel, Miss Grey and Milagro. I'm planning to foster or adopt a couple cats in 2026

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

1. Unless you know someone personally, get a cat sitter on the Meowtel App. I’m impressed with everyone I see on the app who works in my local area and I can’t say that I feel the same way on the other apps. 2. Remember you can chat with Meowtel sitters before you book, to answer any concerns,. You can be better assured to get someone who can meet your expectations and provide what the kitties need. 3. Be prepared with information about anything your cat sitter might need for cat care.

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

Different people have different styles. I am happy to answer any questions before a booking or after. I ask questions about what the cats need and what the cat parents expect. I want to emphasize that I am reliable, trustworthy and dedicated to providing quality care and love for their purr-babies while they’re away. During meet and greets, it’s preferable that I can interact with the cats because that’s going to help cats & cat parents feel less anxiety and more comfort during the reservation; better assurance the kitties will be receiving quality care and love.

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

This is 2nd nature. I take special care entering and exiting to make sure the cats stay inside. I'm careful with medication and prescription food, as well as keeping cats separated when needed. I ensure cats stay inside for safety’s sake. Anytime I have to clean with chemicals or disinfectant, I wipe it dry after before leaving the spot so that kitty paws stay safe. I love essential oils, but I take care never to use any essential oils that are toxic to cats. I am careful to not leave anything dangerous anywhere cats may pawsibly be.

Are you usually available during holidays?

I am almost always available holidays. Although reservations happen without holidays, it seems during holidays, cat sitters are in higher demand and I want to help fulfill that need.

What is your favorite cat toy?

Whatever the cat is having the most fun with. I’ve seen so many fun cat toys in my Meowtel adventures.

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

With timid cats, and sometimes with anxious cats, I greet them and then do all the necessary cat care, and then sit quietly close by. I speak softly and friendly. Walking without the noise of shoes sometimes helps reduce cats' anxiety. Often, they eventually come check me out because curiosity rules. Some anxious cats need to play. Some cats are happy to be taken care of, and express it at a safe distance. If cats are so anxious that they hide, I want to make sure they're okay, but try not to be stressing them. I'm there to make them feel safe and taken care of with compassion. 💞