How a cat sitter can prepare for looking after someone else’s cat

28th October 2019

Looking after someone else’s cat whilst they are on holiday can be rewarding and great fun, but it’s important to ensure that you are well prepared for the task. Here are a few things to consider.

Meeting the cat

If possible, meet the cat and owner before the owner goes away. This will give you a chance to assess the cat’s temperament and ask the owner any questions you may have about how to care for their pet. Spend a bit of time playing with the cat so that they can get used to your presence and find out what toys they like to play with. Ask the owner about the cat’s daily routine to get an idea of when they like to eat, sleep etc.

Feeding the cat

Find out about the cat’s feeding behaviour and make sure you know how often and when to feed them. Make sure you know where to find all the food that they will need whilst the owner is away, plus a bit extra in case the owner is delayed coming home. While the owner is away, be sure to keep the cat’s food bowl in its usual location so that the cat doesn’t become upset by any changes.

Cat flap access

Find out if the cat has access to the outdoors via a cat flap and find out what kind of cat flap they have. If they have a SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap Connect, you could ask the owner if they mind giving you access to the Sure Petcare app so that you can keep an eye on the cat’s comings and goings. Access to the app would also allow you to lock the door remotely if the weather turns bad or if you need to take the cat to the vet whilst the owner is away.

Cats with medical conditions

If the cat has a medical condition, find out what medication they will need and ask the owner to demonstrate how to administer the medicine if possible.

Veterinary care

Ask the cat’s owner to leave details of their pet’s vet so that you know who to contact if the cat becomes unwell or has an accident. Make sure you know how to get to the veterinary practice in advance.