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

I've been looking after kitties for as long as I can remember. Almost every friend and family member of mine growing up had some kind of pet in the house, and I would walk in and immediately flock to them. Once I could drive, there was no stopping me from being the first to volunteer for pet sitting. I've been watching the cats of friends, family, and neighbors for about six years now, and I'm excited to offer my services to a wider community!

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

I absolutely love being around all animals, and I have for my entire life!! Cats bring me so much joy, and I feel so so lucky to be able to meet new kitties all the time and give them another friend. Our Earth's creatures are so precious, and I think that cats deserve lots of love which is why I spend so much of my time caring for cats!

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

I currently have two adorable domestic short hairs named Buddy and Holly who are 4 years old! Buddy is my handsome, all black, timid boy who loves to snuggle and meow at everything he sees. Holly is my light footed, brown tabby, who absolutely adores people! She is quick to greet any guest at the door, and she'll find any corner or hole she can to nuzzle into.

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

I would recommend finding someone who you think will get along well with your cat(s)! If the connection isn't there after the meet and greet, it's okay to find someone else!! If your cat has extra needs, make sure your sitter is available and willing to take the extra steps and ensure the safety and happiness of the animal! All cats will react to people differently. Sometimes trial and error in finding the perfect sitter is necessary.

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

For new clients, meet and greets are a great way to introduce myself to the cat(s) and their home environment, so they know what to expect while owners are away. This also provides an opportunity to go over all of the details and instructions for the reservation and see where everything will be. I also know that some cats are very shy and won't come out at all during visits and that schedules can be very busy, so the other option is to have cat parents send written/video instructions for me to best take care of the kitties during their trip.

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

I always double check to make sure doors are closed and locked during and between visits! Many people have ring doorbells and security cameras for added security which is helpful too. I know some cats try to bolt out the door, so I always watch the cats carefully and stay vigilant when I'm coming and going from the home to avoid any attempt at escape :) I will also monitor the cats throughout my visits to make sure they aren't getting themselves into dangerous situations or harming one another.

Are you usually available during holidays?

Yes! I am currently working on my bachelor's degree, so I generally have off class during federal holidays and should be able to come by and visit your sweet kitties!

What is your favorite cat toy?

My favorite cat toy is any kind of toy on a stick! I have quite a few different bird, bug, mouse, and fish hanging from a stick toys for my own kitties, and they absolutely love them. Cats are inclined to hunt, so they love having a moving target to chase around and jump after. I think these toys provide plenty of exercise for cats, and they can be fun to watch as the human controlling the stick.

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

I've been around quite a few shy and anxious kitties before, including one of my own who does not enjoy new people stopping by. I know that not all cats are quick to come around, so I always try my best to have patience and give them their space when the environment is overwhelming. Positive reinforcement is a must, and making sure the cats feel safe to open up on their own terms is what's most important! I will never force a cat to come out of their hiding spot to interact with me. If they're content where they are, that is always okay!