We have a confession to make, Stuart and I haven’t taken a proper holiday, not even a short break away in years, why? Our family all live far away and we know how important it is to have someone you trust, can rely on and who just understands cats, and we have struggled to let go and find that person. We interviewed lots of people who just weren’t quite right, and that got me thinking, what if a potential customer desperately wants to go away but can’t quite find the right person, or they don’t know where to start, so here’s our tips on what is important and what to look for.
- Are they a professional cat sitter? Do they have their own website, with an email address, telephone number and their location?
- Do they have professional cat sitting insurance?
- Do they have experience giving cats medication, you may not need it now but it may become important in the future?
- Do they offer an in-person meet and greet?
- Do they offer different services to suit you and your cat’s needs?
- Do they use encrypted software that you can use to check your bookings at any time day or night?
- Do they respond quickly and professionally to your questions?
What Questions should I ask?
- Emergency cover, what happens if they are ill or have an emergency which means they can’t get to your cat?
- How would they get your cat to vet in an emergency, do they have a car?
- How long do you stay with the cat?
- What do you look for in terms of illness and behaviour?
- What communication will I receive from you?
- How will you respond if my cat hides away?
- How will you respond if my cat becomes aggressive due to nerves?
Have I chosen the right person?
Never underestimate the power of your gut, did you feel the person is knowledgeable and can respond to any eventuality. If you aren’t sure meet a few cat sitters to see which one is right for you. Your cat may hide away during the meet and greet, that doesn’t necessarily mean they will do the same during visits, cats respond differently when you are away. I met a cat recently for a meet and greet who stayed far away, but watched me the whole time, she and I became the best of friends with time and patience.
Cats need and deserve better care than a quick 5 minute pop in to feed them, here at Harris Paws we offer a selection of services to suit you and your cat, as we know all cats are different and despite popular opinion they are not aloof or loners, they love company, even if they don’t want a cuddle, someone in the house playing calming music, talking to them, or just sitting quietly near them makes all the difference when you can’t be there.
Please view our cat sitting page for details of the options we offer and please do contact us with any questions or to arrange a free, no obligation consultation https://www.harrispaws.co.uk/pet-services/cat-sitting-and-cat-visits/