How to Prepare Your Home for a Cat Sitter

Vacation planning is underway, and while you look forward to relaxing days, you also need to think about caring for your beloved cat. A cat sitter is the perfect solution to ensure your feline friend is well taken care of in your absence. To help the cat sitter perform their duties optimally and to make your cat feel comfortable, good preparation is essential. Here are some tips on how to prepare your home for the cat sitter:

1. Free Introduction Visit

Take advantage of my free introductory visit!

  • Familiarity: This visit helps not only the cat sitter to get familiar with your home and your cat, but also helps your cat to get to know the cat sitter.
  • Answering Questions: Use this opportunity to address any questions and details that are important to you.

2. Leave Detailed Instructions

I will create a list with you containing all the important information about your cat. These include:

  • Feeding Schedule: Provide exact instructions on when and how much your cat should be fed. Don't forget to mention any special food preferences or intolerances.
  • Medications: If your cat needs medication, note which medications should be given at what times and in what dosages.
  • Behavior: Describe your cat's usual behavior so the cat sitter can more easily recognize any deviations. Also, inform them about your cat's likes and dislikes.
  • Toys and Activities: Provide information on favorite toys and games your cat enjoys.

3. Ensure Access to Important Areas

Make sure the cat sitter has access to all relevant areas:

  • Litter Box: Place the litter box in an accessible location and ensure there is enough litter available.
  • Food and Water: Fill the food bowls and water dish and ensure that more supplies are easy to find.
  • Sleeping Places and Hideaways: Inform the cat sitter about your cat's preferred sleeping places and hideaways.

4. Front Door and Keys

Arrange how the cat sitter will access your home. The handover of a spare key takes place upon final booking before your vacation. Ensure the cat sitter knows how all locks and security devices work.

5. Emergency Contacts

I will fill out a list of important contacts with you:

  • Your Contact: Provide your contact details where you can be reached during your vacation (and if desired, those of another trusted person) so I can reach you in case of an emergency.
  • Veterinarian: The contact details of your veterinarian and the address of the practice.

6. Safety Precautions

Ensure that your home is safe for your cat:

  • Windows and Balconies: Make sure windows and balconies are secured so your cat cannot fall out.

7. Communication

Arrange regular updates with your cat sitter:

  • Video and Photo Updates: At your request, I will regularly send you photos and videos so you can see how your cat is doing.
  • Daily Reports: A brief report on your cat's daily behavior and well-being can be reassuring.

With these preparations, you can ensure that your cat sitter is well-prepared for their task and that your cat is well taken care of during your absence. This way, you can enjoy your vacation knowing that your beloved feline friend is in good hands.