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

I have been watching my family members various cats for over a decade. For the last year I have been pet sitting, doing drop-ins and overnights.

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

They are all so different and so much fun to get to know. Their personalities are so wildly different with each cat you meet. You might meet cats who look alike, but they will be on completely opposite sides of the world when it comes to personality!

Can you tell us about your favorite cat sitting reservation?

I think my most favorite is a stray cat one of my clients feeds. When I do my drop-ins & overnights, I they asked that I also put food put for the cat outside who I now call Ernie. He has been eating there for quite some time but does not go near people. He has come to know his name & I am now the only person he trusts. He runs to my car when I show up because I take the time to go slow with him, acknowledge him, & give him space. I've made him a hut to protect him from the weather & I am currently working on getting him relief from his fleas with oral meds in his food. He is a completely different cat & a reminder of why I do this. I just want cats to be happy, healthy, and comfortable.

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

I recently lost my baby Lucy after 13 years together. We adopted a senior cat named Fluffy and a 6 year old named Odie. They're adjusting nicely!

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

Feel free to reach out! I will answer any questions you have. Something I was worried about my first time booking was how many notes I had. I wanted my cats to be comfortable and stay in their routine. But it is fine! I want your babies to be comfortable and safe just like I would want mine to be. So leave as many notes as you like, and ask as many questions as you like!

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

I like to meet the client and the kitties. Let them get used to seeing me so it isn't a shock when I come back. It's also good to get a key and test it before the booking begins, because accidentally getting the wrong key is a lot to deal with when you're out of town! I make sure to take notes on the kitty, as well as where things are like food, litter, etc.

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

I always make sure I get all of the information needed from the client. And always take it slow and gentle when approaching a new cat. They don't know me and I am in their space so it's important they are comfortable. I let the cat set the pace

Are you usually available during holidays?

I am usually available during holidays for drop-ins but please always ask! For instance, on Christmas I am available for only afternoon and evening. Thanksgiving I am available all day. It varies so please feel free to reach out!

What is your favorite cat toy?

My favorite game to play with cats is to let them chase me around! I love running around with them and hiding around corners. If they aren't that playful, anything on a string is good.

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

I always let the cat set the pace. Sometimes they'll just want to hide under a bed or couch the entire time I am there. So I make sure to put their food and water close by if I think they might be too scared to come out when I am gone. I will never force a cat to come to me or be social. Keeping their stress as low as possible is my main goal in those situations because I want them to be comfortable enough to leave their hiding spot to eat and use their litter box when I am not there.