I'm Lauren
Artist Cat Lover The Purrfect Sitter
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Meowtel provides customer support 365 days a year to help cat parents feel informed and supported at every step - including before a reservation is made.
In-home cat sitting visits typically include:
Lauren is experienced with 3 types of medications
Check if Lauren services your area
Unfortunately, Lauren does not cover your area right meow.
I'm Lauren
Cat Sitting in Austin, TX
My name is Lauren Tarbel. I am a fine artist and photographer living in North Central Austin. I have loved and cared for cats all my life, and I would love the opportunity to care for your kitties while you are away.
Working with animals is truly my favorite job ever! I speak fluent cat and love doting on your kitties. I have been working as a Meowtel sitter for over 2 years. I take a lot of photos and videos during my visits
to keep you updated while you are away. While you are traveling I treat your cats as if they were my own... Hello Pet Parents,
My name is Lauren Tarbel. I am a fine artist and photographer living in North Central Austin. I have loved and cared for cats all my life, and I would love the opportunity to care for your kitties while you are away.
Working with animals is truly my favorite job ever! I speak fluent cat and love doting on your kitties. I have been working as a Meowtel sitter for over 2 years. I take a lot of photos and videos during my visits
to keep you updated while you are away. While you are traveling I treat your cats as if they were my own.
In my family, we have two kids Ellie (9) & Henry (8), two tabby kitties, (Ziggy and Star), and a Husky (Bowie). I often volunteer at local shelters photographing animals up for adoption.
Whether your baby loves affection and attention or is introverted and shy, I have your cat care covered.
On one occasion I tended a cat crew of 8 kitties! This required the maintenance of 5 litter boxes. Each cat needed special care and several took medication twice daily.
No matter the circumstances, I will go above and beyond to provide the care your fur babies deserve.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Learn More About Lauren
What is your experience with cat sitting, and how long have you been doing it?
I have been pet-sitting for over 20 years and have been with Meowtel for 2, going on 3 years 😸 I have pretty extensive experience as a cat lover and sitter. I would call myself an animal whisperer ❤️
Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?
I have two 4-year-old kitties who are brothers. We adopted them as rescues in 2021 from Austin Pets Alive. Their names are Ziggy & Star. When we first adopted them they were very frightened of people. Today they are so outgoing, affectionate, and the heart of our home alongside our Husky named Bowie.
What is your typical process for working with a new cat parent?
When working with a client for the first time, it helps to answer any questions and make my clients feel comfortable. After I confirm your reservation, we coordinate a good time to set up a meet-and-greet.
How do you ensure the safety & security of the cats and the home while cat sitting?
I am always looking out for the best interests of the kitties I care for, I tailor my approach to your kitties' individual needs and your instructions. I am very careful whenever I open exterior doors, and before I leave each I ensure the house is safe for your cats.
Are you usually available during holidays?
Yes, I am available on most holidays. If you find that I am unavailable feel free to direct message me and I will double-check my calendar or refer you to some great Meowtel sitters I know.
What is your favorite cat toy?
I love a good cat wand but nothing beats a good box. On the job I've seen some pretty cool toys 😺I find most cats really like a good cat kicker or catnip-laced toy. One of the coolest toys I've seen is a little battery-powered mouse that moves across the floor when you turn it on.
How do you handle cats that are particularly timid or anxious?
I respect whatever level of attention or affection your kitty requires. I often talk to them in a soothing voice while I go about taking care of their needs. I usually check them in their safe spots and praise them from a respectful distance. On multiple occasions I've had very shy kitties open up to me in beautiful ways.
Medication Experience:
Skills:
In-home cat sitting visits typically include:
Lauren is experienced with 3 types of medications
Check if Lauren services your area
Unfortunately, Lauren does not cover your area right meow.
Sarah
June 24, 2026
Lauren is a cat sitting superstar! I have three kittens who came down with upper respiratory infections just days before I was leaving town, and they needed nebulizer treatments twice a day. I reached out to Lauren and she made time in her schedule for a meet and greet the very next day. It only took a few minutes for me to know that my kitties were going to be in excellent hands with her. Every day I was gone, Lauren sent so many photos, videos and thorough updates. She had absolutely no trouble making sure the kittens got their treatments. i’ve been a cat sitter for over 10 years and a Meowtel Sitter for three years. As someone who has a lot of experience cat sitting, I can tell you that Lauren is one of the very best. I couldn’t recommend her more highly.
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Coleen
May 21, 2026
We had a wonderful first experience with Lauren as our sitter! Lauren sat for our cat across 4 nights, and everything was perfect. She sent so many updates and it was very clear that she really loved on our little guy while we were away with tons of play, treats and cuddles. We loved all the regular photo and video updates. Lauren also left the house just like she found it and we didn't have any issues with cleanliness. Thank you, Lauren!!
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Regina
December 29, 2025
Lauren did a fantastic job watching my cat for a week while I was out of town. My cat is extremely shy and easily scared, but Lauren made him feel comfortable and even got him to come out for treats. She sent wonderful updates of every visit, including pictures and videos, which gave me so much peace of mind. She made sure he always had enough food, fresh water, and a clean litter box. I would definitely have Lauren watch my kitty again and highly recommend her to anyone looking for a caring and reliable sitter.
Read more
David
August 12, 2025
Lauren went above and beyond all expectations for cat care. Because of schedule conflicts, I needed to split my car care for my last trip and Lauren stepped in to a very "spooked" cat (I don't blame the previous sitter; cats will be cats and things happen). Lauren worked extra hard to make sure that the cat who was spooked was made comfortable and eventually back to her normal cat-self.
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Lori
May 20, 2026
We love Lauren! Even our most skittish kitty came out to greet her on the first day of this visit. She takes great care of our pets and home and gives the best updates and always send photos and videos.
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Coleen
September 17, 2025
This is the second time Lauren has cared for my Sam cat. I never thought he would so readily accept a stranger as a caregiver. It is obvious from the photos and videos that Lauren sends every day that that he is very happy.
Read moreService Area & Availability
Drop in visits rates
Overnight stay rate
Lauren's is 20%
Holiday Surcharge
Due to high demand during holidays, sitters on Meowtel have the option to set their own holiday price increase, which can be found in the rates section of their profiles. If your reservation falls within three (3) days before and/or after a federal holiday, or on the holiday itself, a holiday surcharge, determined by your sitter, will be added to your reservation.
These are the date ranges in 2026 to which the holiday surcharge applies:
- January 1-4: New Year's 2026
- January 16-22: MLK Day
- February 13-19: Presidents Day
- May 22-28: Memorial Day
- June 16-22: Juneteenth
- July 1-7: July 4th
- September 4-10: Labor Day
- October 9-15: Columbus Day / Indigenous Peoples' Day
- November 8-14: Veterans Day
- November 23-29: Thanksgiving
- December 22-28: Christmas
- December 29-31: New Year's 2027
Lauren's holiday surcharge is 20%.
Drop in visits rates
Overnight stay rate
Lauren's is 25%
Holiday Surcharge
Due to high demand during holidays, sitters on Meowtel have the option to set their own holiday price increase, which can be found in the rates section of their profiles. If your reservation falls within three (3) days before and/or after a federal holiday, or on the holiday itself, a holiday surcharge, determined by your sitter, will be added to your reservation.
These are the date ranges in 2026 to which the holiday surcharge applies:
- January 1-4: New Year's 2026
- January 16-22: MLK Day
- February 13-19: Presidents Day
- May 22-28: Memorial Day
- June 16-22: Juneteenth
- July 1-7: July 4th
- September 4-10: Labor Day
- October 9-15: Columbus Day / Indigenous Peoples' Day
- November 8-14: Veterans Day
- November 23-29: Thanksgiving
- December 22-28: Christmas
- December 29-31: New Year's 2027
Lauren's holiday surcharge is 25%.
Communicate & Pay Through Meowtel
Using Meowtel's messaging and payment tools helps keep booking details in one place and gives you access to platform support if you need help.
325,000+
Reservations Completed
Trust & Safety
Every reservation is backed by the Meowtel Promise, giving you and your cat world-class customer support every step of the way.
If it doesn't feel like the right fit at the Meet & Greet, or if you have any concerns during the reservation, please call 1-844-MEOWTEL (1-844-636-9835) so we can help you re-book with another sitter.
Labor Day is coming up soon (September 7th, 2026)
Cat sitters on Meowtel are usually pretty busy, don't forget to book your sitter!
Frequently Asked Questions
Reservations officially begin at 12:00 AM in the sitter's time zone on the start date. Cat Parents may cancel within 24 hours of booking and receive a full refund, as long as the reservation has not yet started. After the first 24 hours, the following cancellation rules apply:
- More than 48 hours before the reservation start date: Full refund. The sitter will not receive any earnings.
- 24–48 hours before the reservation start date: 50% refund. The sitter will earn 50% of their planned earnings.
- Within 24 hours of the reservation start date (or after it has begun): No refund. The sitter will earn 100% of their planned earnings.
All refunds are initially applied to the Cat Parent's Meowtel Account Balance for use toward a future reservation or tip. Funds may be returned to the original payment method at any time.
Meowtel is a marketplace that connects cat parents with independent sitters. For eligible reservations booked and paid for through Meowtel, the Meowtel Promise explains how we support cat parents if something unexpected comes up.
If it doesn't feel like a purrfect fit after a Meet & Greet or during a reservation, our support team is here to help at 1-844-Meowtel (1-844-636-9835). We'll take time to understand what happened and help you consider next steps, which could include help with a new reservation.
Austin cat sitting rates will vary based on the sitter's experience and services, but the average price is $26.00. Prices depend on visit duration (20, 45, or 60 minutes) and whether you need drop-in visits or overnight stays.
Every cat sitter on Meowtel completes a background check. Ask your sitter about a free Meet & Greet so you (and your kitties!) can feel comfortable with your sitter before you leave.
Cats are territorial animals and don't do well in new environments. The presence of other cats, dogs, and even birds in kennels or animal hotels cause an immense amount of stress. This is why Meowtel was created, so tailored in-home care is brought to you.
We recommend booking daily visits to keep your cats in their routine and help minimize feline anxiety while you're away.
Each visit typically includes: feeding, refreshing water bowls, litter box scooping, tidying up, medications, updates with photos, lots of playtime, and any special requests. Ask your sitter about a free Meet & Greet!
Rating breakdown
Sarah
June 24, 2026
Lauren is a cat sitting superstar! I have three kittens who came down with upper respiratory infections just days before I was leaving town, and they needed nebulizer treatments twice a day. I reached out to Lauren and she made time in her schedule for a meet and greet the very next day. It only took a few minutes for me to know that my kitties were going to be in excellent hands with her. Every day I was gone, Lauren sent so many photos, videos and thorough updates. She had absolutely no trouble making sure the kittens got their treatments. i’ve been a cat sitter for over 10 years and a Meowtel Sitter for three years. As someone who has a lot of experience cat sitting, I can tell you that Lauren is one of the very best. I couldn’t recommend her more highly.
Coleen
May 21, 2026
We had a wonderful first experience with Lauren as our sitter! Lauren sat for our cat across 4 nights, and everything was perfect. She sent so many updates and it was very clear that she really loved on our little guy while we were away with tons of play, treats and cuddles. We loved all the regular photo and video updates. Lauren also left the house just like she found it and we didn't have any issues with cleanliness. Thank you, Lauren!!
Regina
December 29, 2025
Lauren did a fantastic job watching my cat for a week while I was out of town. My cat is extremely shy and easily scared, but Lauren made him feel comfortable and even got him to come out for treats. She sent wonderful updates of every visit, including pictures and videos, which gave me so much peace of mind. She made sure he always had enough food, fresh water, and a clean litter box. I would definitely have Lauren watch my kitty again and highly recommend her to anyone looking for a caring and reliable sitter.
David
August 12, 2025
Lauren went above and beyond all expectations for cat care. Because of schedule conflicts, I needed to split my car care for my last trip and Lauren stepped in to a very "spooked" cat (I don't blame the previous sitter; cats will be cats and things happen). Lauren worked extra hard to make sure that the cat who was spooked was made comfortable and eventually back to her normal cat-self.
Lori
May 20, 2026
We love Lauren! Even our most skittish kitty came out to greet her on the first day of this visit. She takes great care of our pets and home and gives the best updates and always send photos and videos.
Coleen
September 17, 2025
This is the second time Lauren has cared for my Sam cat. I never thought he would so readily accept a stranger as a caregiver. It is obvious from the photos and videos that Lauren sends every day that that he is very happy.
Coleen
August 22, 2025
I was very pleased with Lauren's interaction with my Sam cat. She evidently established excellent rapport with him as evidenced through the multiple photos and videos she sent while I was away. I will definitely use her again.
Jessica
May 16, 2025
The reservation was really easy to complete after confirming the dates with Lauren. She was amazing with my cats! During the mat and greet I really loved her energy and could tell that the cats were really enjoying her vibe as well. I left for my trip feeling like my 4 cats would be safe and well taken care of. Lauren sent thorough updates and lots of great photos and videos of the cats. My little void with the separation anxiety issues became buddies with Lauren and even felt comfortable enough to climb up on her shoulders and give affection. He never does that with anyone else but me. I felt at ease and had peace of mind while traveling, knowing that my kitties would be well fed and get their meds on time. I will definitely be booking with Lauren again!
Sherry
April 3, 2025
We have two cats that were rescued as feral babies. They both have very high needs. One is deaf and the other is extremely fearful of new people. Lauren was able to get both cats comfortable with her and literally eating treats out of her hand. She is the only person I would trust from here on out to take care of my special needs cats.
Alex
December 13, 2024
Lauren was absolutely fantastic! My kitty is a very shy gal, and Lauren knew just what to do to make her feel as comfortable as possible. In addition, her updates were very thorough and personable with many great pictures.
Jade
April 14, 2025
I am so glad I found Lauren when my regular sitter was unavailable. I was very nervous about leaving Catboy home for two weeks (I'd never been away from him that long), but she put my mind at ease on our first meeting. She was fantastic with Catboy and played with him every day. I got the best pictures and videos of him in her daily updates. Lauren even went above and beyond and swept and mopped my apartment before I returned 🥹 She took such good care of my home and beloved friend 🩷
Jessica
June 23, 2025
Lauren is absolutely fantastic with my cats! I can leave town without a worry and know they will be happy and fully taken care of when I'm gone. Not only os she a fantastic cat sitter that provides lots of detailed messages and photos/videos, she also goes above and beyond when providing meds and food for my picky eaters, she keeps the house super clean and she even took care of watering my plants while I was away. I have requested Lauren twice now for my travels and will be sure to connect with her again for future cat ssittingneeds. ❤️
Jennifer
December 25, 2024
Lauren was great. Sitters usually never even see my cats because they are so shy. Lauren went out of her way to make sure my cats were comfortable with her in the house and actually made friends with them. Sent great pics and videos. House was clean and litterbox fresh!
Cynthia
September 2, 2024
if you want quality cat care my husband and I recommend Meowtel and Lauren. We thought our previous cat care worker Angela was an angel but so is Lauren! Plenty of play time was provided for our dear cats, and the menu was followed perfectly for both of cats and especially for our thyroid ill older cat. Very much appreciated the tidying up before we came home.
Kathy
February 19, 2025
Lauren was great to work with. she quickly gained our confidence by being proactive with arranging a meet up prior to the first visit to go over details and requirements for our kitty. it also helped that she came recommended by another Meowtel caregiver who we usually use but was unavailable for this timeframe. very responsive and loved receiving her updates.
Amanda
March 2, 2024
Lauren is amazing! Our kitties are extremely shy and a bit high maintenance due to one being newly blind and another having a chronic illness requiring daily meds. Lauren is patient and has a calming presence. She listened, asked a lot of questions and totally understood what they needed. Not only did she gain their trust, but I can tell by some of her beautiful photos that they truly liked her and enjoyed her visits! We got lots of detailed updates and photos and we were able to relax on our trip knowing she was taking such great care of them. I will absolutely book Lauren again in the future. 😺😺😺😺😺
Lori
June 15, 2026
Lauren is amazing! She takes such good care of our kitties and sends the very best updates! When one of our boys was feeling ill, she stepped up and exceeded our expectations. I trust Lauren immensely with our cats and our home.
Jade
August 26, 2025
Lauren is a cat sitting superstar. This is my second time booking her to care for Catboy and she was awesome, once again. Catboy loves her so much. She takes the best pictures and videos and gives detailed updates each visit.
Jordan
April 5, 2024
Lauren was amazing! I requested very last minute, and she was so prompt and so easy to work with. I was very nervous as I had recently moved and was concerned that my cats were going to be skittish and not eat. She not only charmed them into eating, but put them so much at ease that they came out of hiding. I am so appreciative of her! And she was so easy to work with! Definitely would recommend for your kitty family!
Olivia
December 8, 2023
Lauren did a great job caring for my cat and sent lots of pictures and updates while I was gone. I think Mango even missed her because when I got home he’d still meow by the front door
Sherry
This month
Lauren is the best - our cats seem to love and trust her even more than us at this point. I have never felt more secure leaving town and knowing that my animals (and house) are cared for.
Lori
April 25, 2026
Lauren is awesome! She even coaxed our shy kitty out from hiding to enjoy pets and treats. She is so kind and sent the very best updates. Highly recommend.
Garren
December 1, 2025
Lauren is amazing! She has taken care of our five cats multiple times this year and goes above and beyond in care. She is prompt in her communication and sends thoughtful updates while you’re away. We come home to happy cats and a tidy house as well thanks to Lauren. Highly recommend!
Vanessa
May 27, 2024
Lauren was fantastic! I immediately felt comfortable leaving my new kitty in her hands. She provided me with great updates and pictures. Would highly recommend her services, you can tell she has a genuine love and passion caring for animals 🐱!
Justin
December 8, 2023
We are so thankful for Lauren's attention to our Little shy cat! The updates she sends are great and takes care of all our quirky requests while we're away.
Ammi
October 13, 2024
Lauren was so helpful and understanding when I had to book her last minute due to reservation mix up on my end. She was reliable, cared for my senior cat well and helped put my mind at ease while I was away.
Jennifer
March 31, 2025
my shy kitties love Lauren which makes it so much easier when I have to leave them.
Jon
December 25, 2025
Lauren is always awesome! My cat loves her, and she sends fantastic pictures and videos. It makes leaving my cat home for a few days much easier knowing she is being well taken care of!
Aaron
This month
We can't say enough good things about Lauren! We've been lucky to have her watch our cat, Ody, several times and we wouldn't want anyone else taking care of him. Highly recommend!
Aaron
August 23, 2024
Lauren was fantastic with our little man and did an extraordinary job going well above and beyond our expectations!! I would highly recommend Lauren and hope to have her sit for us again soon!
Coleen
This month
Garren
June 1, 2026
Andrew
March 29, 2026
Garren
March 21, 2026
Coleen
February 17, 2026
Jon
February 6, 2026
Lauren is always awesome and my cat loves her!! Highly recommend!
Jon
January 18, 2026
Lauren was great as usual. My cat loves her and she sends great pictures and videos!
Andrew
January 14, 2026
Coleen
November 16, 2025
Jon
November 15, 2025
Lauren is awesome! My cat loves her so much. She always sends great pictures and videos!
Andrew
October 24, 2025
Danielle
October 15, 2025
Jon
October 11, 2025
Lauren is awesome - my cat loves her! She sends great pictures and I always feel great about leaving my cat with her. She is amazing- highly recommend!
Andrew
September 30, 2025
Brooke
July 28, 2025
Garren
July 18, 2025
Andrew
February 10, 2025
Andrew
January 10, 2025
Bridget
December 28, 2024
Jon
December 22, 2024
Lauren was excellent with my cat. She sent great pictures and videos. It was obvious my cat loved her and had a great time! Great updates too.
Emma Claire
November 4, 2024
Lauren was super responsive and took great care of mr Bucee while I was away this weekend! He looked super happy in photos and seemed very calm around her. 🩷
Alyssa
November 3, 2024
Andrew
October 15, 2024
Quandra
September 7, 2024
Alyssa
August 31, 2024
Lauren is absolutely incredible! she went above and beyond for us. My cat loves her too! she was so attentive, communicative and caring. Will definitely be working with her again.
Logan
July 14, 2024
Andrew
May 31, 2024
Logan
December 3, 2023
Justin
October 13, 2023
Meowtel
May 30, 2023
Lauren is a cat sitter in the Austin area. Their profile has been verified and their references have been checked by Meowtel.
Free Cancellation (48+ hrs)