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

I have been doing cat sitting since December 2022.

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

I love putting cat owners at ease, knowing that their babies are safe and taken care of. Sending lots of pictures and videos of each visit, showing the cats is extremely important.

Can you tell us about your favorite cat sitting reservation?

I don't have a favorite reservation but my very first reservation was my longest one. The owner had to travel abroad for a month. I felt so honored that she put all her trust in me to take care of her two cats. It was a wonderful experience, and I was so grateful that the owner and the cats were at peace during this time.

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

I have two kitties, Roxy and Barnabas. Roxy is a year old, and Barnabas is nine months old.

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

Make sure that you hire a cat sitter from a reputable website, such as Meowtel if you do not know her/him. References from other cat parents and recommendations also give an idea about the sitter's ethics and attitude.

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

I thank the new cat parent for her/his trust in me and arrange to schedule a meet and greet at the parents's home. This will enable them to finalize their decision if you are the right sitter. A meet and greet also gives the opportunity to meet the cat/cats, their routine and how they respond to you. The sitter also gets to know the house and should ask if there are any safety issues, such as door alarms. The sitter should also check if packages/mail is to be brought in. Some houses may have a cat door, so it is very important for a new client to be aware that their cats are sitted inside only

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

Make sure that there are no open doors and windows and that the garage door, if present, is locked. Check wiring and cables and report safety concerns to the owner and Meowtel promptly. Check room temperature and adjust it, if necessary, but let the parent know. Study the surroundings and report any suspicious activity. Monitor the cats closely and report unusual behavior immediately, e.g. vomiting, lethargy, appetite, sores, wounds.

Are you usually available during holidays?

I am usually available unless stated otherwise.

What is your favorite cat toy?

I love the lazer pen and the bee hanging from a string.

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

I move and speak as quietly as possible in order not to frighten them more. Sometimes it helps to shake a bag of treats to get them to come out, in case they are hiding. If this doesn't help I do not get frustrated or take it personally. I was sitting a very shy cat who came out on my last day of the reservation. Patience is very important.