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Do you love hanging out with cats but don’t have one of your own? Then cat sitting is a paw-some way of bonding with your new kitty companion. Also, cat sitting is an ideal way to get a taste of what home cat care is all about.
Data suggests that households in the United States own approximately 46.5 million cats. Therefore, there are plenty of opportunities for cat-sitting out there. Pet care, however, varies from kitty to kitty. Some felines are extroverts and love hanging out and grabbing attention while others are shy and wish to be alone initially. Don’t fret, we got you covered! In this blog, you will discover the 5 key DOs and DON'Ts of cat sitting.
The following are the 5 essential Dos of cat sitting for you:
Being pawsitive on the first meeting with your feline client is important. Also, don’t get disappointed if they are not being friendly with you immediately. So, stay calm and keep up with your usual cat-sitting duties.
It is a great idea to ignore the kitty for a while, till the time they are running away from interacting with you. Give enough time for the kitty to approach you.
Do blink your eyes slowly while talking to your animal companion to ensure you are talking politely with them. And instead of maintaining prolonged eye contact, slowly close and open your eyes, then turn your head away.
After sensing that your feline client is ready to come closer, get down on your knees or sit on the ground to put yourself at their level. They won't find you as intimidating in this way. Simply sit quietly next to them in the same place if the cat is reluctant to come too close.
Make sure you play with your furry friend during your cat-sitting visits. Doing so will help them let off energy and benefit much from it in terms of both their physical and emotional well-being. Additionally, it will make your relationship with your furry client much stronger.
Listed a few don’ts to follow:
When cats and kittens expose their belly and neck in front of you means that they are vulnerable; it is the height of trust. However, a common belief that they are demanding a belly rub, is not true.
The worst thing to do as a cat sitter is to shout at your furball. Avoid yelling even if they are misbehaving. Yelling at felines makes them fear you and distrust you.
Avoid chasing a kitty around the house only to pet them. This acts as a threat to them and eventually, they will stop feeling safe around you. It is always a smart choice to give them their space and time.
Teasing cats might cause injuries as they tend to jump out of fear. An incorrect landing can even hurt them. Cats are unaware of such mocks which may lead them to mistrust people or possibly cause behavioral problems.
Being from the Felidae family with hunting instincts, it can be cautious while playing with cats using your hands. Doing so gives them the wrong message that scratching or biting limbs is considered fair game. Even the feline parents will not be pleased when they find out that their pet has picked up a bad habit in their absence.
All in all, cat sitting can be a fulfilling side hustle or full-time career for kitty lovers. However, it does involve a little preparation and accountability. Never forget that you have been entrusted with looking after someone's beloved pet. Follow the dos and don’ts to deliver exceptional care for the furry friend. Additionally, it demonstrates that you are a reliable cat sitter who deserves to get hired again.
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