Getting your cat ready for a sitter
A simple checklist for the week before you travel, so your cat's routine stays the same while you're away.
Cats like their days to look the same. The less changes while you're away, the calmer they stay. Here's what I ask every family to sort out before a trip.
Write down the routine
Feeding times, how much, which bowl, and anything your cat refuses to eat. If your cat is on a special diet, like renal food for kidney disease, leave a note with the exact brand and amount. Small details matter, like whether they like their wet food warmed up a little.
Leave enough supplies, plus a few extra days
Food, litter, treats and medication for the whole trip, with two or three days extra in case a flight is delayed. Put everything in one place so nothing needs to be searched for.
Medication, step by step
If your cat takes pills, show me how they usually get them: wrapped in a treat, crushed into food, or given directly. Write down the dose and the times. I'll follow your routine exactly and tell you in every update that it's done.
Water, especially for kidney cats
Leave out every bowl and fountain your cat normally uses. For cats with kidney disease, hydration is the most important part of each visit. I keep water fresh, note how much they drank and check the size of the litter clumps, which is a good sign of how well they're drinking.
Hiding spots and house rules
Tell me where your cat likes to hide, which rooms should stay closed, and which plants need water. A shy cat might not come out for the first visit or two. That's normal, and I'll still check that they've eaten and used the litter box.
Vet details
Leave your vet's name and number, and let your clinic know someone else is caring for your cat while you're away.
Book a meet & greet
If we haven't met yet, the free meet & greet is the best way to start. I learn the routine in person, your cat gets to sniff me, and you get to ask anything you like.
$35 per visit, with photos and an update every time.