August 31, 2025 Back Home

How to Be a Cat Sitter: A Beginner’s Guide

Whether you’re a cat lover or simply looking for a side gig, cat sitting is a great way to make extra cash and spend quality time with some adorable furballs.

But, like any new adventure, it can be a little intimidating at first.

Don’t worry, though, we’ve got you covered with some tips to help you become the ultimate cat-sitting pro.

A Step-by-Step Guide to becoming a Cat-Sitting pro!

1. Start by pet sitting for friends, family, and neighbors

Why not start with the cats you already know? This is a great way to see if cat sitting is right for you without the pressure of impressing a stranger.

Whether you charge your family and friends for your services is up to you!

2. Schedule a meet and greet: First impressions matter

Before agreeing to take on a new client, arrange a meet and greet.

It’s not just for you to get acquainted with the cat (though, let’s be honest, that’s the best part). It’s also for you to meet the cat’s owner and determine if they are someone you want to work for.

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A meet and greet also gives you a chance to learn where everything is, like cleaning supplies and the cat’s favorite hiding spots.

3. Know the cat’s routine inside and out

Let’s talk logistics! Cats love a routine but sometimes they can get thrown off when their human is away.

Cats are creatures of habit, and the more consistent you are with their schedule, the better. If they’re used to eating at 7 a.m. and getting a play session in the evening, try to stick to that routine.

With this in mind, be sure to ask the owner for the scoop on:

When their usual feeding times are
Where to throw away dirty litter
If they are on medication, when they get their doses
Allergies to watch out for

You can ask these questions during the meet and greet.

4. Get grooming details

Cats, much like humans, have their own grooming needs. Some might require a little brushing, others not so much.

Be sure to ask if the cat needs regular grooming, like brushing or nail trims. Knowing if their owner expects these services will help you avoid any “uh-oh” moments when you’re just trying to pet them and they give you the side-eye instead of a purr.

5. Ask about the cat’s personality

Is your new feline friend a social butterfly or a hide-in-the-corner kind of cat? Every cat has their quirks, and it’s important to know about them.

Ask the owner to describe their cat’s personality. Are they friendly and cuddly, or more “leave me alone, human” type? Knowing how they behave will help you approach them the right way.

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6. Ask about text updates

Some cat parents are totally chill and just want you to take good care of their fur baby. Others want constant updates on how their precious pet is doing.

Be sure to ask if they’d like you to send text updates during your time together. It’s always nice to check in, and it helps you stay in the owner’s good books!

7. Nail the details

There’s nothing worse than not knowing what food dish the cat prefers or, heaven forbid, overfeeding them treats (a good way to make a cat grumpy, trust me). Ask for specific instructions on:

What dishes to use for their food
Their veterinarian’s phone number
Mealtime expectations
Treat limits
How long they want you to stay (not too long, not too short)

8. Take it slow with the cat

When it’s time to meet the cat, go slow. Cats are independent creatures and can be wary of new people.

Don’t rush up and try to cuddle them immediately. This will likely result in a swipe of the claws. Instead, approach cautiously, get down to their level (don’t loom over them like a giant), and give them some space to come to you.

9. Don’t bring your pets along

It might be tempting to see if your kitty would get along with your new furry client. But you should resist the urge to bring them along on your pet-sitting gig.

The last thing you want is to have two territorial cats fighting over who gets the prime lounging spot. Stick to one cat at a time and give them your full attention.

@marcusjmonroe A day in the life of a NYC cat sitter. #catsitter #sketch #cats #catsofnyc ♬ original sound – Marcus Monroe

10. Play, play, play!

Cats, despite their reputation for being low-key, need mental stimulation and exercise. And if they are missing their human, they will need extra love and attention.

Whether it’s a feather wand, laser pointer, or just tossing around a toy mouse, spending some quality playtime together will keep the cat entertained and help build your bond.

Ready to become the purr-fect pet sitter?

Becoming a great pet sitter isn’t about knowing every single thing about cats. It’s about being attentive, respectful, and adaptable.

By starting with a meet and greet, asking the right questions, and understanding each cat’s unique personality, you’ll build a solid foundation for your new role. Before long, you’ll be a pro at caring for your furry clients.

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