Why Cats Need a Different Kind of Sitter
Cats are not small dogs, and cat sitting is not the same as dog sitting. While dogs tend to be overtly social and crave interaction, cats are territorial creatures who are deeply attached to their environment. A cat sitter needs to understand that a cat's comfort comes from routine, familiar surroundings, and the ability to retreat when they feel uncertain.
The best cat sitters know to move slowly, speak softly, and let the cat come to them. They understand that a cat hiding under the bed on day one is not a problem to solve — it's a normal response that will resolve with patience. If your sitter expects a cat to behave like a dog, it's the wrong fit.
Key Questions to Ask a Potential Cat Sitter
Start with experience: How many cats have they cared for? Are they comfortable administering medication, handling litter trays, and recognising early signs of illness? A good cat sitter should be able to tell you the difference between a cat that's relaxed and one that's stressed — subtle cues like flattened ears, dilated pupils, or a twitching tail.
Ask about their approach to shy or anxious cats. Do they give cats space, or do they try to force interaction? The right answer is always patience. Also confirm logistics: how long will each visit last, will they send photo updates, and what's their emergency plan if your cat shows signs of illness or distress?
In-Home Visits vs Boarding for Cats
For most cats, in-home visits are far less stressful than boarding. Cats are territorial animals, and being removed from their home environment can cause significant anxiety — refusal to eat, hiding, and even illness. An in-home sitter visits your cat in their own space, maintaining routines and minimising disruption.
At PetHero, we recommend in-home cat sitting for the majority of feline clients. Our sitters visit once or twice daily, spending time playing, feeding, cleaning litter trays, and simply being present. For cats who need more company, overnight stays are available. The goal is always to keep your cat in their comfort zone.
Red Flags to Watch For
Be wary of sitters who take on too many clients at once, have no experience specifically with cats, or cannot provide references from other cat owners. A sitter who says "cats are easy — they just need food and water" does not understand feline care. Cats need mental stimulation, clean litter trays, fresh water in multiple locations, and someone who notices subtle changes in behaviour that could indicate health issues.
Trust your instincts during the meet-and-greet. Watch how the sitter interacts with your cat. A great cat sitter will crouch down, extend a hand slowly, and let your cat make the first move. If your cat seems comfortable, you're on the right track.
