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

I've been sitting cats for nearly a year, but I've been a cat lover all of my life, and have personally had cats as pets most of my life. I seem to have the vibe and disposition cats gravitate towards, even cats who may be especially shy, timid, or scared. I seem to love those cats and senior cats the most.

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

The way cats carry and present themselves are interesting and a joy to me. Each cat's personality can be extremely different, and yet, there is this one special, magical thing at their cores that ties them all together, and that is just simply... CAT. They are cats. And to me, that's a very wonderful thing.

Can you tell us about your favorite cat sitting reservation?

My most memorable reservation sadly only got to the meet and greet. I got the wonderful privilege of being able to meet an amazing 19, nearly 20, year old, blind, sweet boy. He developed a disease at age 13 that caused his parents to surgically remove his eyes. And he successfully learned to navigate his home and happily live out the rest of his life sightless. He was unfortunately nearing the end of his life when I met him. He unfortunately had to be put to sleep before the sit. But that hour I spent with him and his family at the meet and greet was full of joy and love. Yes! I came to love him in that short time. And I truly mourned him when his parents informed me of his passing. He was amazing, and I am so glad I got to meet such an amazing cat!

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

I have one cat, Beesters! He is 14 years old and I gladly let him rule my world! He's definitely my soulmate.

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

Ask the potential sitter plenty of questions - about their love of cats, their experience, etc. If a sitter thinks you're asking too many questions, they may not be right for you. As well, make sure to tell them everything you can think of about your cat(s) routines, behavior - good and bad, and quirks, etc. The more information they have, the better care they can give your loveable furball. And the better you'll be able to choose who's the right choice.

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

I ask a lot of questions! I want to do my best to learn all the routines, behaviors - good AND bad, and quirks your cat has. Hiding spots, things that irritate them, treats they love, favorite toy, etc. And I hope that you also ask me a lot of questions, too! You want to ask my experience? Of course! You want to ask what my favorite treat or hiding spot is, too? Great! I'll tell you! 😂 The point is for me to know what I need to in order to take the best care of your cat(s). And for you to feel comfortable with me the most that you are able so that you feel I'm the best fit for your family. And if you don't think I am, that's also good, because you know best who is the best for your cat. That is the goal!

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

Making sure your cat is safe while they're with me is number one. This includes double-checking doors are secured/fully closed, that no windows are left open, and that I know where ALL of your cat's secret hiding spots are. That way, if I know where they are, I know where they aren't! I also leave on any lights that you do and keep any other safety measures in place that you would, so not to seem as if things are any different than usual.

Are you usually available during holidays?

Yes! I make myself available for families who need a much deserved break! I myself rarely, if ever celebrate any holiday, so I'm available!

What is your favorite cat toy?

I LOVE watching cats play with the ball in track toys! I can watch them play alone, or I even join in with them too!

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

If they come out of hiding and near me at all, I will offer out a curled fingers hand, as I would a dog, to let them smell me, if they're open to that closeness at all. If so, I let them dictate the next move. If they don't come out, I just give them the time and space they require. I'll talk to them, make up songs and sing terribly to them. I don't make sudden movements or loud noises, etc. I believe a cat will come out to me when they're ready. I often have good luck with this method. If it doesn't work, then I'm sad lol but I get it. That's just how some cats are.