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

I've been sharing my love of cats with families for 13 years now, though truthfully, I've been surrounded by these wonderful creatures my entire life. Growing up in a household that always had cats taught me to read their subtle signals and understand their needs, but it's been these 3 years of professional cat sitting with Meowtel that have really deepened my appreciation for just how unique each feline personality can be. Every year brings new experiences that add to my understanding of what makes each cat special.

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

There's something absolutely magical about earning a cat's trust and discovering their individual personality. I find myself completely enchanted by the process of getting to know each new feline friend - watching an initially cautious cat slowly decide I'm worthy of their attention, or discovering that the seemingly aloof tabby actually loves belly rubs once they feel safe. What captivates me most is how every cat teaches me something new about patience, observation, and the art of quiet companionship.

Can you tell us about your favorite cat sitting reservation?

While every sitting holds its own special memories, my heart always returns to homes with multiple cats because that's where the real magic happens. My second client with Meowtel perfectly captures why I love this work so much. Their household was like watching a live-action cat sitcom unfold before my eyes - from their completely different personalities creating delightful chaos to those surprise tablecloth-pulling episodes that left me laughing out loud. What touched me most was witnessing their playful interactions with each other and gradually with me, seeing their curiosity bloom into trust, and eventually being welcomed into their world of loving cuddles and purrs.

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

Eclipse came into our lives during that remarkable year when the solar eclipse crossed through our South Carolina skies in 2017, and her name couldn't be more perfect. She's become my faithful companion and daily reminder of why I fell in love with cats in the first place. Every morning, she serves as my personal alarm clock, gently but persistently reminding me that breakfast time is sacred in her world. Whether I'm curled up with a good book or bustling around doing household chores, she's always nearby, content just to share the same space. Living with Eclipse has reinforced what I already knew from years of cat sitting - these creatures thrive on consistent presence and routine, and they offer such genuine companionship in return.

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

Finding the right cat sitter is like finding someone who truly understands that your cat isn't just a pet - they're family. Look for someone who asks thoughtful, detailed questions about your cat's world: their feeding rituals, their favorite hiding spots when the doorbell rings, their play preferences, and all those little quirks that make them uniquely yours. A great cat sitter will want to understand not just what your cat needs, but who they are as an individual. Don't hesitate to share stories about your cat's personality and ask potential sitters about their experience with similar situations. Most importantly, choose someone who promises regular communication and updates - you should never have to wonder how your beloved companion is doing while you're away.

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

Every successful cat sitting relationship begins with a proper introduction, which is why I always insist on a thorough meet-and-greet session before the actual sitting starts. This visit isn't just about logistics - it's about creating a foundation of trust. While you're still home, I spend time observing your cat's natural behavior, learning their routine, and letting them get comfortable with my presence. I take careful notes about everything from feeding schedules and favorite toys to preferred hiding spots and any special needs. During this time, I also work with you to establish our communication plan - how often you'd like updates and through which method. This preparation ensures that when I return for the actual sitting, your cat already recognizes me as someone safe and familiar.

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

Safety is woven into every moment of my cat sitting routine because I understand that you're trusting me with your most precious companions and your home. For your cats, this means maintaining their environment exactly as you've left it while staying vigilant about potential hazards - securing all doors and windows, ensuring no dangerous items are accessible, and never leaving entry points unattended. Before I leave each visit, I always do a careful headcount to ensure every cat is accounted for and secure. For your home, I treat it with the same care I'd want for my own space - varying lighting patterns to maintain that lived-in look, collecting mail, and following any specific security protocols you've established. I always have your emergency contacts readily available and have already located your preferred veterinary clinic, just in case the unexpected happens.

Are you usually available during holidays?

Absolutely! I actually cherish being available during holidays because I know these are often the times when families most need dependable care for their beloved cats. There's something wonderful about ensuring your cats feel loved and secure while you're creating memories with family and friends, knowing that someone who truly cares is keeping them company.

What is your favorite cat toy?

I'm absolutely fascinated by toys that move and capture a cat's natural hunting instincts! There's nothing quite like watching a cat's eyes light up and their body language shift into that focused, predatory stance when they spot something moving. Whether it's a feather wand dancing through the air, a motorized mouse scurrying across the floor, or even a simple laser pointer creating mysterious red dots (though I always make sure to end laser play with a physical toy they can actually catch), movement transforms even the most sedate house cat into a graceful hunter. These interactive toys don't just provide entertainment - they give cats that essential mental stimulation and physical exercise that keeps them healthy and happy.

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

Working with shy or anxious cats has taught me that patience isn't just important - it's everything. These sensitive souls need to feel completely safe before they can even begin to trust, and I've learned that the key lies in letting them control every interaction. I start by simply being present in their space, speaking to them in gentle, reassuring tones while respecting their need for distance. Cats are incredibly intelligent and seem to understand when someone is trying to communicate with them through voice and body language. I never force interactions or try to rush the process because I've discovered that some cats need hours or even days to decide I'm worthy of their trust. Instead, I focus on maintaining their familiar routines exactly as you've established them, because consistency is often the greatest comfort I can offer an anxious cat.