How to prepare your cat for a cat sitter

INTRODUCTION

Leaving your cat while you go away can feel stressful, especially if it’s your first time using a cat sitter.

The good news is that most cats settle much better when they’re able to stay in their own home and keep their normal routine. A little preparation beforehand can also make the experience smoother and more comfortable for both you and your cat.

Here are a few simple things that can help prepare your cat for cat sitting visits while you’re away.

KEEP THEIR ROUTINE AS NORMAL AS POSSIBLE

Cats are creatures of habit and usually feel safest when their routine stays familiar.

Before you leave, it helps to:

• Keep feeding times consistent

• Leave their favourite sleeping areas as they are

• Avoid making big changes to the home environment

• Make sure food, litter and essentials are stocked up

The more normal everything feels, the more relaxed your cat is likely to be during visits.

ARRANGE A MEET & GREET

A meet & greet before the booking is one of the best ways to help both you and your cat feel comfortable.

It gives your cat the chance to:

• See and smell a new person beforehand

• Become familiar with my presence

• Stay calmer when visits begin

It also gives us time to go through:

• Feeding routines

• Favourite hiding spots

• Medication if needed

• Personality quirks

• Emergency contacts

Every cat is different, so understanding their individual routine and behaviour helps me provide the best possible care while you’re away.

LEAVE CLEAR INSTRUCTIONS

Even if something seems obvious to you, it’s always helpful to leave clear instructions.

Things that are useful to include:

• Feeding amounts and times

• Treat routines

• Litter preferences

• Any medications

• Vet details

• Alarm or key information

• Favourite toys or comfort spots

The more information provided, the easier it is to keep your cat’s routine consistent.

DON'T WORRY IF YOUR CAT IS SHY

Many owners worry that their cat will hide during visits, especially if they’re nervous or naturally shy.

This is completely normal.

Some cats warm up quickly, while others prefer to observe from a distance at first. I always work at the cat’s pace and never force interaction.

Often, once cats realise their routine is staying the same and they’re safe in their own environment, they begin to relax much more naturally.

REGULAR UPDATES GIVE PEACE OF MIND

One of the biggest benefits of using a cat sitter is knowing your cat is being cared for while also receiving updates and photos during your trip.

I always aim to keep owners updated so you can relax knowing:

• your cat is safe,

• eating normally,

• comfortable,

• and being well looked after.

For many owners, those little updates make a huge difference while they’re away.

Ready to book your cat sitter?

If you’re looking for a trusted cat sitter in Thornton Heath, Croydon or surrounding South London areas, I’d be happy to help make your time away as stress-free as possible for both you and your cats.