We all have times when we are away from home for work, an emergency, or just to have a little fun. During these trips, most of the time, it is not practical to take our cats with us. So, as responsible pet parents, what should we do? Should we prepare a big plate of food and some water and hope for the best?
Well, hopefully, the answer is obvious. We hire a dependable and responsible cat sitter to care for our pets so we don’t have to worry about our cat’s physical or emotional well-being while we’re away from home.
When we choose to hire a pet sitter in our absence, we are trusting that person with both our pet and our home. Therefore, finding someone dependable and trustworthy is important. Beyond this, what do we look for in a cat sitter?
First of all, the person to whom we entrust our cat must love cats. This probably sounds pretty obvious, right? But if it’s so obvious, why do so many pet owners leave their cats with a neighbor who just tolerates them? A good cat sitter will take the time to focus attention on your cat, because quality pet care isn’t just about feeding your cat and emptying the litter box.
Many people choose to put their cat in a boarding house when they are away. They don’t realize that it is emotionally important for their cat to remain in familiar surroundings.
What are some of the services you should expect from your babysitter?
- A free initial meeting to get acquainted with your cat’s needs and daily routine.
- Your cat sitter should make at least one visit (45 minutes to an hour) with your cat each day. Your cat would appreciate a second visit too. However, that is really a luxury.
- Your babysitter should put out fresh food and water every day.
- Cleaning of the litter box should be done every day.
- Your sitter should spend time each visit playing or snuggling with your cat.
- Your babysitter should be willing to administer medication if needed.
In addition to tasks directly related to your cat, your sitter must perform other light tasks around your home.
- Watering your plants.
- Bringing your mail and newspapers.
- Your babysitter should adjust the blinds and lights to make others look inhabited in your house.
By following these simple guidelines, your next trip should be worry-free and your cat will be glad you did.
