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

I have had cats for about 30ish years. I’ve had up to 4 at one time. I have been pet sitting cats for about 2 years and love doing it. It really gives me joy.

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

I love the one‑on‑one interaction I get with cats. When dogs are around, cats don’t always show their full personality, so I enjoy the chance to really connect with them. It’s especially rewarding when parents tell me their cat doesn’t usually warm up to strangers—and we end up becoming best friends. I love a challenge and earning a cat’s trust. 🐾

Can you tell us about your favorite cat sitting reservation?

One of my favorite cat reservations has been with Rose. She came from a rescue where she had kittens while still a kitten herself and wasn’t treated very well early in life. Because of that, Rose has been a challenge to get to know—but also incredibly rewarding. Through patience, consistency, and spending time in her space sitting quietly and playing with her favorite toy, Rose and I have built a strong bond over the past year. While she doesn’t like being picked up, she trusts me, lets me shower her with affection, and happily accepts snacks. Watching her confidence grow has been amazing—not just for me, but for her parents too. She now comes downstairs on her own to hang out and get snacks, which is a huge milestone.

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

My kitty names are Leo and Nyla. Leo is my grand furbaby. And Nyla is my girl. They are both Mimi’s boy and mommy’s girl. My favorite thing about them both is spoiling them.

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

Hire someone who will truly listen to you. You know your cat best, and a good cat sitter should respect your guidance, routines, and concerns. Ask about their experience with cats. Have they cared for cats before? Do they understand feline behavior, body language, and boundaries? Cats aren’t small dogs—they need patience, awareness, and respect. I also encourage asking whether the sitter has cats of their own. For me personally, someone who lives with cats naturally understands their quirks, moods, and needs. That experience goes a long way in providing calm, confident care. Most importantly, choose someone who will meet your cat where they are—whether your cat is a social snuggler or prefers space. Trust, respect, and experience matter. The right cat sitter should make both you and your cat feel comfortable and secure while you’re away.

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

I absolutely love loving on cats—but that affection always happens on the cat’s terms. If your cat is a certified “love muffin,” I’m thrilled to snuggle, pet, and spoil them with attention. If your cat prefers space, I respect that just as much. My approach is: Let the cat set the pace Observe body language and comfort levels Offer interaction without forcing it Build trust through calm presence and consistency If a cat chooses not to engage, I’m completely comfortable simply sharing the space quietly and ensuring all their needs are met. Often, that respect is what eventually leads to trust—but even if it doesn’t, your cat’s comfort always comes first. Do I want to snuggle them? Yes. Do I need to respect their space? Absolutely. My goal is for your cat to feel safe, understood, and cared for while you’re away—and for you to feel confident knowing their boundaries are being respected at all times.

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

The safety of your home and your cats is my top priority. Before a booking, I always ask whether your cats have any habits such as trying to sneak out the door so I can take appropriate precautions. I am very mindful when entering and leaving the home, carefully watching doors at all times—even for quick tasks like checking the mail. I double‑check that doors and windows are secure and that everything is locked properly when I leave. For overnight or extended stays, I’m also open to using a portable video camera (if approved by the owner) so I can monitor the home while briefly away, such as during a quick store run. My goal is simple: your cats stay safely indoors, and your home remains secure at all times. I treat every home with the same care and attention I give my own.

Are you usually available during holidays?

I am normally available on all major holidays for drop‑in visits and overnight care. Availability may vary, so please feel free to reach out and ask—I’m happy to confirm and discuss your needs.

What is your favorite cat toy?

My favorite cat toy is anything that lets me “catch a catfish” — the fishing pole toy! 🎣 I also love using a laser pointer for interactive, high‑energy play.

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

With timid or anxious cats, I start by giving them space and letting them get used to my presence. I’ll sit quietly nearby, speak in a soft, soothing voice, and allow them to approach me on their own terms. If they’re food‑motivated, a few treats can help build positive relationship and trust. Patience is key—I never force interaction and always respect their comfort level.