My Journey as a Cat Sitter: Tips for Sitters and Bonus Advice for Cat Owners Hiring 🐱
Over the years, I’ve had the joy of being both a cat sitter and a cat parent, which has led me to search for the perfect sitter. This dual perspective taught me a lot. I learned not only how to care for other people’s cats but also what matters when trusting someone with your own pets.
Let me tell you how it all started.
How I Became a Cat Sitter
During my Master’s degree, I needed some extra income. But with a busy and unpredictable class schedule, I also needed flexibility. That’s when a friend introduced me to a pet-sitting app. As a lifelong cat lover (obsessed might be more accurate 😅), I decided to give it a try.
I made my profile, uploaded photos, and wrote about my experience. This includes taking care of my cats and helping friends with their pets. I was nervous but excited when I got my very first client.
Before that first visit, I asked myself:
“If someone were taking care of Nala and Simba, what would I want as a cat mom?”
Here’s what came to mind:
- Clear and consistent communication
- Regular updates
- A good match between the sitter and my cats
- That my cats felt safe and comfortable
Nala has always been a social butterfly, happy to say hello to anyone new. Simba, on the other hand, was shy and cautious. I learned that if Simba stayed in his favorite hiding spot and didn’t run, he was at least okay with the visitor.
With those lessons in mind, I met my first client, a sweet woman and her cat, Nacho. He was my first furry client, and that’s how my cat-sitting adventure began.
From Small Start to Passion Project
Throughout my Master’s, I continued cat sitting, sometimes visiting up to three homes per day. Over time, I built a small community of returning clients who trusted me with their beloved cats. I have taken care of cats of all ages, breeds, and personalities. I even cared for a 19-year-old cat who needed extra attention.
Even now, with my busier schedule, I still take care of cats for my regulars. Every visit teaches me something new. I learn about brushing techniques, dietary supplements, toys, and plants to avoid. I also learn how to earn the trust of a territorial cat.
At this point, I’ve cat-sat for over 50 cats, and I’d love to share some of my best advice in case you want to give this fulfilling job a try.
Tips If You Want to Become a Cat Sitter
Before the First Visit
🐾 Genuinely love animals. It sounds obvious, but some people sign up without any knowledge or real affection for cats. It shows, and not in a good way.
🐾 Ask for all the details upfront. From medical needs to food preferences, it’ll help you know if you’re the right match.
🐾 Set your service area wisely. Don’t waste your time or the client’s by offering services too far away.
🐾 Be specific in your profile. Include what services you offer (feeding, litter, administering medicine, etc.), and add photos of yourself with animals.
🐾 Clarify your availability. Cats have routines and feeding times; clients need to know you can stick to them.
Meet & Greet With the Client
🐈⬛ Always meet the cat. Even if they’re shy, you need to see how they respond to your presence, you’re there for them, not just the human.
🐈 Let them sniff and hear you. Cats recognize people by scent and sound. A calm introduction goes a long way.
Here are the top three things I always ask during the meet-up:
Food
- Dry or wet?
- Amount per meal?
- Specific times?
- Any supplements or vitamins?
- Special feeding location?
Water
- Bowl or fountain?
- How often should it be changed?
- Favorite mug or glass (yes, many cats have one 😹)?
- Do they drink from the tap?
Litter
- Location of the litter box?
- How often do you clean?
- Where to dispose of the waste?
- When to fully change the litter?
💡 Bonus Tip: Ask about their favorite toys and playtime habits. Also, find out if they have any quirks, like territorial behavior or anxiety triggers.
Also, ask for:
- Vet contact info and how to get there in case of an emergency
- Pet passport or ID pet card
- Where to leave the keys (inside the house, mailbox….)
- If you should open/close windows for ventilation
During the Visit
✅ Always inform the client when you arrive and when you leave
✅ Keep a checklist: fed dry/wet food, changed water, cleaned litter, etc.
✅ Maintain communication, reassure them with updates
✅ Send photos and videos, they’ll love it!
✅ Respect each cat’s personality: Some love to play and cuddle, others just want quiet company.
Tips for Cat Owners Hiring a Sitter
From the other side of the experience — here’s what I recommend to all cat parents looking for a sitter:
✏️ Be very clear about your expectations. Don’t assume anything is obvious.
📸 Send photos of key areas. Food bowls, litter box, where toys are, etc.
🧾 Leave written instructions. Even better if printed.
🧑🤝🧑 Do a meet-up. Always.
🩺 If going away for a long time, book a vet check-up beforehand.
Cat sitting is more than just feeding and cleaning; it’s about trust, presence, and treating each pet like your own. It’s an experience I’ve loved deeply and one I continue to enjoy whenever I can.
Whether you’re thinking of becoming a sitter or looking for one, I hope these tips help you feel more confident and prepared.
With love,
Nicky
