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

I have over 30 years of hands-on experience caring for cats, including senior cats, rescue cats, and those with medical needs. I have been involved in community TNR efforts and have helped socialize and support shy or previously abandoned cats. Throughout the years, I have learned to read feline body language closely, monitor health changes, and maintain consistent routines that reduce stress. Cat care is not just something I do occasionally—it has been a lifelong commitment.

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

Safety and security are my highest priorities during every visit. I carefully follow all feeding instructions, medication schedules, and home access procedures exactly as provided. Before leaving, I double-check doors, windows, and entry points to ensure the home is secure. Each visit includes refreshing water, cleaning food bowls, and scooping litter to maintain a clean, healthy environment. I make sure food is stored properly and that no unsafe items are left within a cat’s reach. I closely monitor appetite, hydration, litter habits, grooming, and overall behavior for any unusual changes. If something seems out of the ordinary, I communicate promptly and clearly. I keep visits calm and structured to preserve routine and reduce stress. I respect every home as if it were my own and provide detailed updates with photos so cat parents feel reassured while away.

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

For timid or anxious cats, patience and careful observation are essential. I never force interaction and always allow each cat to set the pace. I maintain a calm, predictable presence, using soft vocal tones, slow blinking, and relaxed body language to help reduce stress and build trust. I pay close attention to subtle signals—ear position, tail movement, pupil dilation, and whisker tension—to understand how a cat is feeling in the moment. I am mindful of overstimulation cues and stop interaction before stress escalates. If appropriate, I may leave favorite treats nearby or gently hand-feed treats once comfort begins to grow. With rescue and TNR experience, I have worked with shy and semi-feral cats through gradual exposure and positive reinforcement. During each visit, I also monitor appetite, hydration, litter habits, grooming, and energy levels to ensure both emotional comfort and physical well-being.