PET SITTING CHECKLIST AND TIPS  

Dream scenario: taking your cat kid everywhere you go. Reality: occasionally hiring a cat sitter. If you’re headed out of town, hiring a pet sitter could be less stressful than boarding your cat. Read on to learn more, from what to look for in a cat sitter to pet sitter safety tips for overnight cat sitters. 

How to choose a pet sitter 

Picking the right pet sitter for your cat kid can feel daunting. Luckily, organizations like Pet Sitters International provide educational resources for pet parents. Vet clinics and rescue organizations can also be a good source of advice, as can referrals from fellow pet parents.  

When looking for a pet sitter: 

• Consider references and pet sitter qualifications, including reliability, punctuality, and familiarity with administering medications if needed.
• Select someone who understands cat behavior, respects their boundaries, and shows patience.
• Find a cat sitter who has experience with food schedules, picky eaters, and litter box cleaning.
• Research average cat sitting fees, compare current cat sitting rates, and agree on cat sitting charges before you leave.
• Solidify if they’ll stop by daily (twice a day is most common) or stay overnight.
• Set up a trial visit so your cat kids and potential cat sitter can meet and interact. This can also help your cat kid feel more comfortable when you leave since they’ve already met their pet sitter.

Questions to ask a cat sitter 

To make sure you’re picking the right cat sitter for your family, just treat your cat sitter search like a job interview (where both you and your cat kid share the boss title). 

Questions to ask a pet sitter could include: 

• How much experience do you have with cats?
• Can you provide references from other cat sitting jobs?
• If my cat hisses at you or hides from you, what would you do?
• Have you administered medications before, and would you be comfortable doing so if needed?
• Do you have a plan if there’s an emergency?
• Can you please send me pictures and updates on my cat kid?

How to prepare for your cat sitter  

Once you choose a cat sitter, make sure they – and your cat kids – have everything they need while you’re away.

This could include:

• Emergency numbers, including your vet clinic and the nearest emergency animal hospital
• Your phone number as well as the numbers of relevant family members and neighbors who could help with an issue if needed
• Their favorite food and treats, plus detailed instructions on feeding schedules and routines
• A list of any medical needs your cat kid may have (and meds if they take any)
• A heads-up on your cat kid’s favorite hiding spots (so your cat sitter can make sure they didn’t escape if they can’t find your wild child)
• Extra litter in case your pet sitter needs to refresh the cat litter boxes
• Cleaning supplies if your cat kid makes a mess
• A blanket or article of clothing with your scent, especially if your cat kid is prone to anxiety

If your pet sitter is also housesitting or staying overnight, ensure they know your house rules, including how to lock up and check any security cameras.  

Overnight stays could also help your cat kid acclimate faster to their pet sitter, reducing stress for them (and you). 

Traveling with your cat kid instead of hiring a cat sitter? Check out our cat safety and travel tips.