A Cat Sitter's Checklist: What I Might Notice
What a professional cat sitter looks for on every visit, from litter trays to breathing, and why the small details can make a big difference.
I have a number of years’ experience of caring for many cats of varying ages and health conditions, and I know when something is worth a phone call to the owner.
This is a checklist that I follow on every visit:
How a cat greets me
Is the cat coming to meet me as usual, or hiding? Greeting behaviour is one of the best everyday health indicators. A normally sociable cat who hides or doesn't come for food deserves a closer look.
Appetite
I check whether the last meal has been eaten, left untouched, or only picked at. A single skipped meal is rarely a worry. A cat who stops eating altogether for a day or more needs attention quickly, as cats can become seriously unwell if they go without food.
Water
Is the bowl emptier or fuller than usual? A big change in drinking, either more or less, can be a sign of a health problem and is always worth mentioning to the owner.
The litter tray
The litter tray tells a story. I look at:
· How often the cat is using it.
· The size of any clumps (much bigger or smaller than usual).
· Straining or crying while trying to go.
· Any blood.
· Cats going elsewhere in the house.
Coat and grooming
A healthy cat usually has a clean, glossy coat. A greasy, matted or unkempt coat can be a sign the cat isn't feeling well or finds grooming painful. Over-grooming, particularly bald patches, can point to stress or skin irritation.
Eyes, nose and breathing
I look for discharge, squinting, sneezing and noisy breathing. A cat who is breathing fast while resting, or with an open mouth will need looking at.
Movement
Is the cat moving and jumping up as usual? Walking comfortably? Stiffness and reluctance to jump are very common in older cats and are often put down to age when they could be eased with the right care.
Vomiting and hairballs
Occasional hairballs are normal but repeated vomiting, or vomiting with lethargy, isn't.
Mood and behaviour
Sudden hiding, unusual vocalising, restlessness or clinginess can all mean something may not be right. I note anything that seems different from what you've told me is normal for them.
The home itself
I also keep an eye out for things that could affect your cat's safety:
· Windows left open, or ones that don't lock securely.
· lose cables, strings or ribbons.
· Plants that aren't cat safe.
· Signs of a leak, a fault or something wrong with the heating.
· Anything else that doesn't look right when I arrive.
Why daily updates are invaluable
Because I see each cat regularly, daily updates are an integral part of my job. If I tell you your cat has eaten less for two days, or has stopped using their favourite perch, you can decide what to do next. We can adapt their routine to accommodate this.
How you can help your sitter
A good briefing makes all the difference. Before you go, let your sitter know:
· What is normal for your cat (appetite, habits, favourite hiding spots).
· Any health conditions or medication.
· Your vet's details, and your wishes in an emergency.
· Who to contact if they can't reach you.
When you book a sitter, you're trusting them to be your eyes and ears.
A careful checklist is how I try to earn that trust and ensure that I care for them as best as I can.
If you need a cat sitter or details of my services please get in touch to discuss any future plans you might have.
Contact Rebecca
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