I'm Marilyn
Marilyn Cat Sits In Madison
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In-home cat sitting visits typically include:
Marilyn is experienced with 4 types of medications
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I'm Marilyn
Cat Sitting in Madison, WI
Currently have a 7 year old black cat I got as a ten week old kitten. My previous cat I got as a preteen and he lived to be 17 years old. I’ve also had two large dogs in my life, one of whom passed away just shy of his 16th birthday.
I began cat sitting on Meowtel in December 2022. At the time, I was living in Atlanta. I moved to Madison for work in September 2023. I currently work in the pharmaceutical industry after a 5 year career in academic and government lab settings... Scientist by trade, cat lover at heart.
Currently have a 7 year old black cat I got as a ten week old kitten. My previous cat I got as a preteen and he lived to be 17 years old. I’ve also had two large dogs in my life, one of whom passed away just shy of his 16th birthday.
I began cat sitting on Meowtel in December 2022. At the time, I was living in Atlanta. I moved to Madison for work in September 2023. I currently work in the pharmaceutical industry after a 5 year career in academic and government lab settings.
My day job is located in Middleton, but I live in Madison on the east side. My cat sitting business has taken me all over the metro area from Verona to Sun Prairie.
Every visit includes me feeding, changing out water, scooping litter and sending photos/videos of your cats to you. Whatever time is left is spent playing with or doting on your cats depending on their comfort level. Cats have boundaries that must be respected, and I have had luck with shy and more aloof cats on occasion.
Looking forward to working with you and meeting your cats! Don’t hesitate to reach out to see what I can do to make your vacation better for you.
Learn More About Marilyn
What is your experience with cat sitting, and how long have you been doing it?
Started in December 2022 on the app. Done various pet sitting all my adult life for friends, family, neighbors, etc. I love doing it as a side hustle, it was initially done out of necessity because of the cost of living in Atlanta. Now I do because I enjoy it.
What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?
I love seeing other people’s cats. Every cat is a little different so I love all the personalities I encounter.
Can you tell us about your favorite cat sitting reservation?
I have a repeat client who has three guinea pigs in addition to the two cats. It was a great new experience to get to provide that care.
Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?
I have a 7 year old black cat named Floof. My friend found his mom in her apartment complex parking lot shortly before he was born. I brought him home at 10 weeks old. Floof is lovingly referred to as my feline overlord. My clients who also have black cats will always have a special place in my heart.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a cat sitter?
Make sure you communicate clearly with the sitter what you need done. Everyone takes care of their cats a little differently. Also if you can provide it in some kind of written format (ie as a message here on the app or a checklist in your home) that’s even better.
What is your typical process for working with a new cat parent?
I set up a meet and greet to meet the parent and the cat. Ask about medications, quirks, favorite toys, this sort of thing. For me the important part of the meet and greet is to get instructions from you about what you need for the cats and any keys/fobs/door codes needed to access your home. I also ask if interested in other house sitting tasks such as getting mail, watering plants, or small pets such as fish (and even guinea pigs one time!). Also had a client with sourdough starters that needed feeding. Additional disclaimer: please let me know if traveling internationally so we can plan for contigencies in case you get stuck somewhere. We can almost always extend, but I just like to have a plan in place to make sure you’re not hyperventilating in an airport worried about your cats. Nobody wants to end a trip that way!
How do you ensure the safety & security of the cats and the home while cat sitting?
I always make sure doors are locked and I enter slowly in case someone is waiting at the door to make a break for it. I also check for packages and bring them in, letting you know where I’ve placed them upon request.
Are you usually available during holidays?
I’m usually available for holiday bookings. If I’m not, my calendar will reflect that. If a holiday is marked as unavailable, sometimes it’s because I’m booked up but still reach out to see if I can squeeze you in if it’s close enough to my home, work, or a different client.
How do you handle cats that are particularly timid or anxious?
I usually offer my hand to them to sniff and let them dictate how much socialization they want from me. I’ve had clients for as long as 10 days and the cats never came out, other times the shy kitties take to me very well. It all tends to vary but I always do my best. I’ve had really good luck with sitting quietly in people’s living rooms and waiting to see if the cat will come and investigate. I just remember this quote: “Dogs have owners, cats have staff”
Medication Experience:
In-home cat sitting visits typically include:
Marilyn is experienced with 4 types of medications
Check if Marilyn services your area
Unfortunately, Marilyn does not cover your area right meow.
Alison
This month
Marilyn has sat for me multiple times now. She is so trustworthy and reliable, so I am always relieved when she accepts my bookings. She is also amazing with my cats - especially my boy who is leery of new people. Marilyn provides great communication throughout the sit with photos and takes the time to give treats and pets! She is really wonderful!
Read moreResponse from Marilyn
thanks so much for the kind words and thank you so much for being such a loyal customer!! can’t wait to see Millie and Milo again ❤️
Read more
Brittany
This month
I appreciate Marilyn's quick response. Even our skittish cat comes right out when she walks in. Thanks again!
Read more
Trevor
September 2, 2025
Marilyn was very flexible and communicative throughout the visit with my cat. Charlotte had some medical concerns and Marilyn was able to accommodate those. I appreciated daily updates with pictures, and would definitely book with Marilyn again!
Read moreResponse from Marilyn
Thank you so much for the kind words!! Had a great weekend with Charlotte!
Read more
Shanté
May 31, 2025
Marilyn is always wonderful with our cat Waffles! We know we can feel at peace when we travel since Marilyn will send us updates of Waffles eating and playing. She goes above and beyond to help with any emergencies or requests! We are very happy to have her!
Read moreResponse from Marilyn
Always great to spend time with Waffles!! Thanks so much for the kind words!
Read more
Jennifer
November 2, 2024
Marilyn - Did a great job and was patient with me leaving my cat with her for the first time. She adapted to some very specific cat requests (my cat likes to approach you and is specific about how she likes to be touched). All instructions followed.
Read moreResponse from Marilyn
thanks so much Jennifer! looking forward to seeing Twinkle again soon!
Read more
Michelle
May 13, 2024
Marilyn has responds quickly to reservation requests and messages. Sent photos from each visit. Very personable during meet and greet and obviously loves cats! She knows how to introduce herself to cats, and mine took to her right away.
Read moreService Area & Availability
Drop in visits rates
Marilyn'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
Marilyn'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.
300,000+
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.
Memorial Day is coming up soon (May 25th, 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.
Madison cat sitting rates will vary based on the sitter's experience and services, but the average price is $23.00. 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
Alison
This month
Marilyn has sat for me multiple times now. She is so trustworthy and reliable, so I am always relieved when she accepts my bookings. She is also amazing with my cats - especially my boy who is leery of new people. Marilyn provides great communication throughout the sit with photos and takes the time to give treats and pets! She is really wonderful!
Response from Marilyn
thanks so much for the kind words and thank you so much for being such a loyal customer!! can’t wait to see Millie and Milo again ❤️
Brittany
This month
I appreciate Marilyn's quick response. Even our skittish cat comes right out when she walks in. Thanks again!
Trevor
September 2, 2025
Marilyn was very flexible and communicative throughout the visit with my cat. Charlotte had some medical concerns and Marilyn was able to accommodate those. I appreciated daily updates with pictures, and would definitely book with Marilyn again!
Response from Marilyn
Thank you so much for the kind words!! Had a great weekend with Charlotte!
Shanté
May 31, 2025
Marilyn is always wonderful with our cat Waffles! We know we can feel at peace when we travel since Marilyn will send us updates of Waffles eating and playing. She goes above and beyond to help with any emergencies or requests! We are very happy to have her!
Response from Marilyn
Always great to spend time with Waffles!! Thanks so much for the kind words!
Jennifer
November 2, 2024
Marilyn - Did a great job and was patient with me leaving my cat with her for the first time. She adapted to some very specific cat requests (my cat likes to approach you and is specific about how she likes to be touched). All instructions followed.
Response from Marilyn
thanks so much Jennifer! looking forward to seeing Twinkle again soon!
Michelle
May 13, 2024
Marilyn has responds quickly to reservation requests and messages. Sent photos from each visit. Very personable during meet and greet and obviously loves cats! She knows how to introduce herself to cats, and mine took to her right away.
Response from Marilyn
looking forward to sitting for you again!
Brittany
May 12, 2024
Marilyn is definitely a cat lover! My shy cat even came out for Marilyn! My whole family appreciated photo updates
Response from Marilyn
Glad y’all enjoyed the photos! I remembered you mentioning your son being nervous about being gone from the cats, so I’m glad they helped. Hope to see Chickee and Wrenny again soon!
Lillian
March 8, 2023
Marilyn was great. She sent me pictures/videos of Gendry every day and also included pictures of the clean litter and the water and food filled up. She also dealt with some silly kitty quirks like turning the shower on for him to drink and leaving an extra water cup by the bedside table in my room.
Samira
February 23, 2024
Marilyn was very responsive, diligent and communicative. I got photo updates on my cat eating, chewy delivery and a clean litter box. my flight was delayed and Marilyn was super flexible in assisting extra days. 5 stars!!!
Janet
May 18, 2023
Marilyn was excellent. I was a little hesitant at first because it’s always a little nerve wracking leaving your baby with a total stranger but Marilyn was very sweet and helpful. all throughout the trip and even prior, she kept me informed and sent me pictures and it really allowed me to put my mind at ease so that I could enjoy my vacation finally knowing my little one was safe. I highly recommend her!
Alison
June 6, 2025
This is the second time Marilyn has taken care of my cats and I have already booked her for another visit. She takes excellent care to make sure they are fed, comfortable and have a clean litter box. We highly recommend her!
Response from Marilyn
thank you so much for the kind words! can’t wait to spend more time with your fur babies!
Kaitlyn
July 30, 2024
Marilyn was very responsive and took lots of photos for me! I felt much better while away knowing that my cat had someone dependable checking in on him :)
Response from Marilyn
thank you so much! hope to sit Haru again!
Bianca
June 5, 2023
This was the first time using Meowtel for pet sitting. Marilyn did a great job with Sylvester. She kept me updated each day and sent me pictures of him. I highly recommend booking with Marilyn.
Edward
January 3, 2023
Marilyn was great! She gave me consistent updates and everything was in order upon arrival. Will definitely look into her services next time I travel.
Bridgette
February 17, 2025
Marilyn did a great job caring for my cats while I was away. She responded speedily, was very flexible, and cleaned up accidents. Thank you so much, Marilyn!
Response from Marilyn
it was my pleasure! hope to see Jupiter and Luna again soon!
Jessica
May 12, 2024
Marilyn was a wonderful cat sitter. We booked her when we were in a pinch and she took the appointment. She was great with my cats and updating me while I was gone. Will definitely be booking again in the future.
Response from Marilyn
thank you so much! hope to see your cats again soon!
Anthony
May 28, 2024
We had some specific instructions for our cats that were followed to the letter, great service!
Response from Marilyn
thank you for re-booking!
Carol
March 3, 2023
Marilyn went above and beyond. She even watered my little plants when she was there and always sent me pictures of the cats and the litter box and took great care of my furbabies.
Ian
This month
Alison
This month
James
March 23, 2026
Trevor
March 1, 2026
Veronica
February 5, 2026
Oscar
January 20, 2026
Alison
January 9, 2026
Ellie
January 7, 2026
Veronica
January 2, 2026
James
December 28, 2025
Rachel
December 28, 2025
Barbara
December 27, 2025
Alec
December 8, 2025
Marilyn was great with our two cats. Very communicative!
Veronica
November 11, 2025
Sam
November 2, 2025
Barbara
October 27, 2025
Veronica
October 20, 2025
Trevor
October 15, 2025
Another great sitting from Marilyn! Will book again :)
Response from Marilyn
So happy to spend another weekend with Charlotte! She’s such a sweet cat.
Sam
October 13, 2025
Alison
October 10, 2025
David
August 13, 2025
Sam
August 2, 2025
She did great! It's always nice to know someone is taking good care of your cat while you're away.
Karen
July 31, 2025
Kaitlyn
June 9, 2025
Derek
May 27, 2025
Scott
May 27, 2025
Alison
May 16, 2025
Michelle
May 14, 2025
Wendy
February 10, 2025
My cats were well cared for by Marilyn. Everything was done as I requested.
Response from Marilyn
hope to see your kitties again soon!!
Pooja
January 21, 2025
Victor
January 3, 2025
Shanté
December 25, 2024
Vera
December 24, 2024
Response from Marilyn
sorry you weren’t 100% happy with the service. I am always open to whatever feedback you can provide, since nothing indicated to me you weren’t totally happy during the reservation.
Mina
December 18, 2024
Response from Marilyn
looking forward to sitting for Milo and Loki again sometime! can’t believe how much Loki had grown from last time.
Kaitlyn
November 12, 2024
Martha
October 28, 2024
Victor
September 3, 2024
Linda
August 30, 2024
Mina
August 29, 2024
Jessica
July 12, 2024
Michelle
June 10, 2024
Heejin
April 22, 2024
Brittany
April 22, 2024
Sydney
April 17, 2024
Margaret
April 14, 2024
highly recommend
Response from Marilyn
thank you for re-booking!
Alondra
February 24, 2024
Margaret
January 21, 2024
Marilyn is a wonderful cat sitter. With her help I was able to fully enjoy my vacation with no worries.
Anthony
December 29, 2023
Did perfectly, no problems would hire again
Response from Marilyn
thank you so much!! hope to see Freya and Artemis again soon!
Leopold
December 27, 2023
Blake
June 26, 2023
Marilyn was great! My two cats were well taken care of, and seemed quite happy when I got back.
Courtney
June 13, 2023
Marilyn was great!
Patrick
April 3, 2023
Marilyn was a great sitter. She was punctual, communicated frequently, and left us feeling at ease about our cat's well-being while we were away. Thanks, Marilyn!
Meowtel
December 19, 2022
Marilyn is a cat sitter in the Decatur area. Her profile has been verified and her references have been checked by Meowtel.
Free Cancellation (48+ hrs)