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

I’ve been cat sitting and pet sitting since I was a kid/teen! (so about 15 years now) I have been the go-to pet sitter for my parent’s colleagues for as long as I could drive. My parents are educators, so any time someone needed an overnight/weekend stay or even just a check in, I was who they called (texted… actually.) In my adult life that’s translated into me becoming the go-to pet sitter for all our friends. A lot of our friends have cats with special medication requirements or personalities that don’t do well with strangers. I feel really lucky that I get to be the go-to person for their fur babies.

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

What don’t I love? I would say though, the best part is getting to meet all different kinds of cats. I love that every cat has its own unique personality. Nothing makes me happier than spending time with cats.

Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

We have two kitties! Montamore “Monty,” named after my favorite cheese, and our senior girl Maggie Mae Shü. The Shü comes from her obsession with shoes.

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

Look for someone who matches your personal cat parenting style! It’s important the energy and vibes match with what you’re looking for, and what your cats need. Are your cats typically aloof and content being on their own? You probably only need someone who can pop in, feed and change water and clean their litter box with minimal time to hang out. Do you have a Velcro cat? Me too! You definitely need someone who is used to a Velcro cat, that understands just how much love and affection your cat needs, that can spend a good chunk of time with them on their visit. Do you have a skittish kitty? You’ll need someone who has a calming personality, and is gentle and quiet in nature. I’m sure your skittish kitty will warm up to them in no time.

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

I want to get to know you and your cats! We can schedule a meet and greet so I can come meet your kitty or kitties and get to know their routine and any special rituals they have so they can have a seamless transition of care. Do you have a special ritual where you have to sing to your kitty so they'll eat? Teach me the song! Does your kitty need someone to sit with them while they eat? Our boy Monty does too. Is your kitty picky and will only accept their food if I mix it a certain way? No problem. We'll go over everything, no detail is too small, and I'll have everything written down in your client file if I need to reference it ever.

Are you usually available during holidays?

Typically yes! I keep my availability up to date, if you see I am available for the holiday I would LOVE to watch your kitties for you.

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

Timid/skittish/anxious cats often just need enough time to get comfortable. I will always follow your cat's lead! Never forcing interaction or affection. If you have anything you'd like me to know that will help put your kitty at ease, please share it with me! I've cat sat for a very shy cat who would only come out and hang out with me as long as I had treats. Once they were eaten, she was straight back to hiding. After my second time watching her, she actually came out to hang out with me after only one day! Even let me pet her, which is a rare thing for her. I'll respect you shy kitty's space and let them warm up to me on their own time.