I usually relied upon my auntie and uncle for cat sitting responsibilities if I'm going on trips. They were the best feline caretakers on the face of the planet! They were both pet lovers and did incredible work. They even leave me an in-depth report to let me know how my cats acted during the weekend.
Not Every Friend or Family Member Can Be Relied Upon
But not every friend or family is up to the task. I have other family members who taught me this the hard way. Some don't even recognize the basic principles of cat sitting. It's a nightmare to come back from a vacation to find food dishes empty, and the water bowls dry. It's the stuff of horrors!
What Does a Pet Sitter Do?
They are your alternative pet caretaker. When you need to be away and want your pets to be cared for in a caring manner, possibly also in their own house, you will certainly work with a pet caretaker. As opposed to sticking with your pet full-time, the pet caretaker may drop in a few times a day to feed, water, as well as let the pet outside to do its thing.
The usual pet sitting services are:
- Give company for your family pet(s), also taking them outside to play.
- Feed as well as offer the pet fresh water.
- Take the pet for a walk outside for exercise.
- Tidy can as well as clean up any other pet dog mess that might happen.
- Depending on their credentials, they can carry out medications.
- Take your pet dog to their veterinarian consultations.
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Pet sitters are often going to bring in mail, produce the garbage can, and water plants.
Does Uncle Tom Have What It Takes?
If you're thinking of asking friends or family to cat rest for you, first evaluate whether they're up to the task. Some questions to help you decide are:
- Are they cat (or at least animal) people? If you already thought twice about this, move on to the next person.
- When they're in your house, how do they interact with your cats?
- Do they pet your cats at an arm's length? Perhaps they shoo them away because of allergies? If they do, then move on to the next person.
- When you describe your cats' quirks, do they listen intently or disrupt and say, "yeah, yeah, I know just how to feed pet cats," or "you're joking, right?"
- If they're not paying attention intently, move on. If at this point you've run out of people you know, consider catteries and professionals.
We don't want our cats straying in the neighborhood for food (because that's what they do when there's no food or water in their bowls) and cut our trip short!
Interview your prospect
Now that you have a person in mind let's move on to the interview! It's essential to speak to your cat sitter before you agree to their services. Schedule an interview as early as you can, ideally 2-3 weeks before your traveling day.
Here are some points to consider:
- How does the person engage with your cat?
- Does your cat connect with the person?
- What's your first impression? (Trust your gut!)
- Is the person someone you are confident about being inside your house? Or
- Are you confident about leaving your cat in their house?
- Does the person handle your cat knowledgeably and with confidence?
- Cats are family. And we would not want to leave them at risk. We hope these tips help you enjoy your trip, knowing that your cats are in good hands.
How Much Does A Pet Sitter Cost?
Pet service professionals charge an average of $25 per 30-minute visit or $20 to $30 per day. This depends upon your location, the variety of pets, the length of stay, and any unique pet solutions needed. House sitters are also open to watching pets for about $12 per hour if the owners are away.
