Ok, so you’re booked to cat sit. What do you need to make sure you prepare in advance, and prepare yourself for?

Questions to Ask the Host:

Cat Related:

• What is the feeding schedule? When, where and how (which bowls etc.) do they eat?
  • If there are automated feeders, what happens in the event of a power failure?
• Are there treats I can give? How often or in what scenario do you usually provide them?
• What are their litter habits? How often should it be cleaned, and how often should it be fully changed (if applicable)?
• Where does the cat normally sleep at night?
• Are any areas of the house off-limits?
• Is the cat allowed outdoors? Indoors only? If outdoors,
• Are there any behaviors to be aware of (scratching/biting with certain triggers, etc.)?
• Is any grooming (brushing etc.) needed on a regular basis? Does the cat enjoy that?
• Are there any medical concerns?
• Where is contact information for the vet and emergency vet (if after hours for regular vet).
• Where is their pet carrier in case of needing to transport them in an emergency?

House Related:

• How will I enter the house – will you be providing a key, or is there a lock code? Will you hand that off in person or keep it somewhere if we are not meeting in person?
• Any daily/weekly tasks (watering etc.)
• Where does garbage / recycling / compost go? And does it need to be taken out on a certain day/time?
• Is there heating & cooling, and how are they adjusted?
• Are there any quirks to be aware of (sticky door, slow oven etc.)?
• Anything to note in the kitchen appliances for use?
• Is it OK to use cooking basics in your kitchen (oil, spices etc.), or anything else?
• Would you like mail/packages collected in a certain location?
• Anything we should expect in terms of deliveries, etc?
• Are your neighbors aware (or need to be aware) you will have a housesitter, so they are not alarmed at seeing a stranger entering?

Host Related (yes, those too!):

• What are your communication expectations? Some hosts want a daily photo and update, some prefer NOT to have daily updates because they are heading out on vacation and don’t want to think about anything!
• How do you want communication? If they are travelling internationally, they may prefer to use WhatsApp rather than any other platform or text, so be sure to agree in advance and set up a line of communication.
• Who should I contact in the event of an emergency if I cannot reach you?
  • Note: This is not just for YOUR emergency, but also the hosts having an emergency. I had a situation where the host had a medical emergency (luckily they were ok!) and was needing to figure out plans if I had to depart before they came home!

What You Need to Bring:

• Care & Patience!
• Small extension cord – for your electronics at night!
• Earplugs & eye mask
• Toy laser pointer (you can find a link HERE to one I like)
• Cat treats (you might want to double bag this so they dont sniff it out!)
  • You can find my list of favorites HERE!
• Notes you’ve taken on all the above questions 😀

Once You Arrive:

• Be patient with the cat! Many cats are not going to be immediately friendly, and may need even several days to warm up. Let them approach you, rather than you going to them.
• Do a walkthrough of the house – and video it! This especially helps you to put back everything in its place if its a sit longer than a few days.
• Check the litter box and feeding areas to see how the owner has left them – and if they need immediate attention.

Catsitting is a great way to keep pets as comfortable as possible while their owner is away – especially if they are used to having a human home most or all of the day. AND its a great way for you to experience other ways of living, and other furry friends!

If you’re interested in joining a great petsitting community, check out Trusted Housesitters, and use my referral code to know I sent you! Trusted Housesitters Referral