How To Hire A Cat Sitter Properly Like The Experts

If you are going to hire a professional cat sitter, take some time to choose a qualified person,

and be sure to do your homework.

Above all else, you want to feel comfortable with her and make sure that you trust her with your cat while you are away.

Ask friends, family, coworkers, and your veterinarians for recommendations as well as any pet sitters to avoid. Interview the top few candidates and ask a lot of questions, such as:

- Is their service a member of the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters?

- How often will they come to your home while you are gone?

- What is the rate, and does the rate vary depending on the number of cats they will be caring for?

- What is their experience with cats, kittens, and older cats?

- Will they give the cat medication if it is required?

- What is their policy for medical emergencies?

If you are going on vacation for a week or longer, you may want to hire a professional pet sitter to watch your cat. To locate someone reputable, contact the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS). This organization can recommend a cat loving trained professional in your area. Your veterinarian also may be able to recommend several pet sitters whom clients have used before.

Never hire anyone for whom you are unable to get references or recommendations, and make sure that the business is bonded and insured. Arrange to meet the person who will be taking care of your cat. If the pet sitting service refuses to let you meet with the person, reconsider using it. Before you leave, introduce your cat to the pet sitter and see how they get along.

If your cat takes an immediate liking to her, it is a good sign, by the same token, if he despises the person on sight, take that into consideration as well.

The pet sitter whom you choose should like and understand cats. If at all possible, she should be someone whom the cat knows and trusts. Leave specific written instructions about feeding times, the amount of food to feed, the general schedule, and any medications that he may need.

Give the pet sitter the name, address, and phone number of the vet’s office, as well as directions there and a contact number where you can be reached in case of an emergency. Stock up on enough cat food and litter to last until you return.