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

This is my first time getting involved in cat sitting in a formal sense (outside of close friends). I have looked after my own cats growing up and have experience with friends’ cats as well. I have seen the spectrum of cat personalities from extremely shy, some more aggressive, and some who are extremely social. I have respect for each cat’s boundaries and have never had a bad experience.

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

I believe animals have the capacity to be emotionally supportive. Cat sitting allows me to interact with these amazing animals in a way that is mutually enriching. I’ve always loved cats and I like to think with the right people, cats also enjoy our company too.

Can you tell us about your favorite cat sitting reservation?

I can tell you about my favorite cats to visit! A friend of mine has two long haired boys - a blind black cat who is highly food motivated and the other a fiesty and playful orange cat. I always play with the orange cat with his favorite feather toys and then I can chill and relax with the more reserved blind cat. It’s the best of both personalities!

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

Growing up I had 6 cats named Ashley (a beautiful Russian blue), Friskey (a shy and timid orange tabby), Duncan (handsome tuxedo cat), Mushka (a gray 3 legged tabby), Max (sweet black cat), and Cuddles (feisty tortishelle)

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

My advice would be to hire someone who not only has real experience with cats but someone who is incredibly dedicated and passionate about them!

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

My typical process includes understanding the pet parents’ expectations for the visit. This includes what kind of personality their lovely fur baby has, any additional care instructions I should know when looking after their kitty, and duration expectations whether that be a one time instance or something more consistent.

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

I would say best practice is to replicate as close as possible the same type of environment the cat expects with their human. This also includes adhering to all specified care instructions. Cats are creatures of habit and I want to maintain their comfortability at all times!

Are you usually available during holidays?

Depending on the holiday I can definitely be available! I can be a homebody and holiday plans change year to year. Always feel free to inquire regarding holidays!

What is your favorite cat toy?

I absolutely LOVE wand toys. I find they’re incredibly versatile and really allow for both kitty and human to bond while playing.

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

Anxious kitties really need time to build up trust and comfort with a new friend. To begin building that relationship I like to be respectful of boundaries while also inserting my presence slowly and carefully within their space. I like to approach for some sniffs to let them get used to my scent and to offer food and treats so they can positively associate my presence with good things (eating is always a good thing). From there it’s all on kitty’s terms and I patiently (and excitedly) await their approach if and when they feel it’s right.