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

I’ve been pet sitting since 2010 and have over 15 years of hands-on experience caring for cats in a wide range of situations. I’ve supported cats through every stage of life—from bottle babies to senior and end-of-life care—and have handled a variety of medical situations along the way. Over the years, my client base grew primarily through word of mouth, which I think speaks to the level of trust and consistency I aim to provide. I focus on being observant, reliable, and calm under pressure so that both you and your cat feel secure while you’re away. Pet sitting has been a meaningful part of my life for a long time. After moving to Wisconsin, I realized how much I missed working with my regular clients, which is what brought me to Meowtel.

What do you enjoy most about cat sitting?

I love being in the company of quiet souls. Earning a cat’s trust—especially one who is shy or hesitant—is one of the most rewarding parts of this work. I’m often told I may not see certain cats at all, and I genuinely enjoy the challenge of changing that. By moving at their pace and respecting their boundaries, I’m often able to build enough trust for them to come out, which helps reduce their stress while you’re away. And of course, there’s nothing better than the sound of a content cat purring nearby.

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

Don’t hesitate to ask questions—feeling comfortable with your sitter is incredibly important, especially when someone is caring for your cat in your home. A good sitter should be open, transparent, and happy to talk through their experience and approach. I’d also encourage you to ask how they handle things like shy or anxious cats, changes in behavior, or unexpected situations. Those answers can tell you a lot about how attentive and prepared they are. At the end of the day, you should feel confident not just in their qualifications, but in how they communicate and whether they feel like the right fit for you and your cat.

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

I approach every visit with a consistent safety-first routine to protect both your cat and your home. I’m very mindful of escape risks, especially with cats that are quick or curious. When entering and leaving, I use a controlled door-opening process to prevent any chance of slipping out—this is a habit I’ve built over years of working with cats (including my own!). Once inside, I stay aware of the environment and look for any potential hazards, such as unsafe plants, small objects, or anything that could pose a risk if chewed or ingested. Before leaving, I always make sure all cats are accounted for and secure, and I double-check that everything in the home is left exactly as it should be. My goal is for you to feel confident that your cat is safe, your home is secure, and nothing is overlooked while you’re away.

Are you usually available during holidays?

I travel home to Virginia at Christmas to spend time with my family, but I am generally available for most other holidays.