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

Either being a cat parent or pet-sitting over 40 years. I enjoy their independent spirit and sense of fun. I have been a cat sitter recently with shy, and more outgoing cats, as well as keeping a feral cat I kept fed and watered. I enjoy a challenging cat, and I allow them to lead the visit. I have also taken in a lost cat, and kept it away from my own cats, fed, played and brushed them. Eventually I found them a home. I have also worked with kittens at the Animal Humane Foster care office, giving baths, putting them in heated rooms, feeding them and socializing them. I can detect an overstimulated cat or kitten, and notice distress including hiding, shivering, and will make contact shorter. I am good at noticing the signs of distress, avoiding getting scratched or hurt.

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

Meeting new breeds of cats, some shy, some athletic, some mischievous. I enjoy finding a way to become their friend and earning their trust. Cats allow you to just be present, and they choose the moment when they would like to be petted, played with or given attention. I can alter my approach given the individual cat or kitten’s needs. Pet sitting for a cat is about being observant, careful and ready to change gears.

Can you tell us about your favorite cat sitting reservation?

Shy calico cat hid under its pet parent’s bed, slowly sniffed my hand, me and let me scritch its head.

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

Not currently, both kitties, Dickens, age 23 and Hailey, age 16 passed in 2025, I miss them every single day.

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

Look for someone that has had cats, volunteers with cats, and is patient, willing to learn about their unique personalities.

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

To be aware of their home and outdoor environment, their needs, likes and dislikes, and any specific concerns or instructions.

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

I am focused on where the cat is when I enter and leave the home, using distraction to leave safely.

Are you usually available during holidays?

Yes, I can be available during holidays, though usually I am in the area, even if I am attending an event.

What is your favorite cat toy?

I like the rod with the feather or mouse at the end. Soft balls, and ordinary boxes and bags .

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

Sit on the floor, avoid eye contact, call their name quietly and wait, toss a toy near them and wait.