When you’re planning time away from home, whether it’s for a weekend or an extended holiday, ensuring your feline friend is properly cared for is a top priority. Hiring a trusted cat sitter London is a great way to maintain your cat’s daily routine in the comfort of their own environment. However, the key to a successful pet-sitting experience is the information you provide.
Whether you’re working with an experienced company like Chatty Cats Care, or searching for “cat sitting services near me,” a detailed briefing on your cat’s daily routine, preferences, and health requirements is essential. This ensures your sitter can offer the same care and love your cat receives from you.
Why Routine Matters for Cats
Cats are creatures of habit. Their mental and physical well-being is closely tied to their daily routine, which includes feeding, playtime, rest, and even human interaction. Disruptions can cause stress, anxiety, or even health issues. The more your sitter knows, the better they can replicate your cat’s regular life.
Essential Information to Share with Your Cat Sitter
Here’s a checklist of what to communicate to your cat sitter—especially if you’re booking a professional service like Chatty Cats Care in London.
1. Feeding Schedule and Diet
Include:
- Exact feeding times
- Portion sizes
- Type of food (wet/dry, brand, flavour)
- Treats (how often and what kind)
- Any dietary restrictions or food allergies
Tip: Label all food containers and leave written instructions, even if you’ve discussed them in person.
2. Water and Hydration
- Type of water (tap, filtered, fountain)
- Water bowl locations
- How often to refresh
Cats are prone to urinary tract issues, so hydration routines are vital.
3. Litter Box Habits
- Number and location of litter boxes
- Preferred litter type
- Frequency of scooping and changing
- Any usual bathroom habits (e.g., timing, signs of stress)
Also, let the sitter know what’s not normal, like constipation or diarrhea, so they can spot issues early.
4. Health Conditions and Medications
- Any current illnesses or health conditions
- Details of medication: dosage, timing, method of administration (pill, liquid, etc.)
- How your cat typically reacts to medication
- Vet contact information and emergency vet details
Chatty Cats Care requires this information in a sitter checklist, especially for overnight or extended visits, to ensure medical needs are met responsibly.
5. Behaviour and Personality
Every cat is different. Share details like:
- Temperament (friendly, shy, aggressive, playful)
- Hiding spots
- Likes and dislikes
- Reactions to strangers or other animals
- How they typically behave when you’re away
Knowing how your cat communicates discomfort or affection helps the sitter read their signals accurately.
6. Playtime and Mental Stimulation
Let the sitter know:
- Favourite toys and games
- How long your cat typically plays
- Times of day your cat is most active
Play isn’t just fun—it prevents boredom and destructive behaviour. At Chatty Cats Care, engaging play is part of every visit, tailored to your cat’s energy level and interests.
7. Security and Home Access
Provide:
- Entry instructions (keys, alarms, codes)
- Areas off-limits to your cat
- Safe zones for hiding or relaxing
- Emergency contacts (neighbour, relative, vet)
Also, make sure your sitter knows how to secure doors and windows if your cat is an escape artist.
8. Photo and Update Preferences
Do you want daily photos? Text messages? Video updates?
Most professional sitters—including those from Chatty Cats Care, a highly rated cat sitter London service—offer updates as part of their care package. Clarify your preferences so you can travel with peace of mind.
How to Organize the Information
A printed Cat Care Sheet or a digital document is best. You can also create a folder with:
- Emergency contact list
- Vet records
- Medication details
- Feeding and litter routines
- Your travel itinerary (optional)
Bonus: Tips for First-Time Cat Sitting Arrangements
- Do a trial visit: Have your sitter come by for a meet-and-greet to observe your cat’s behaviour.
- Walk through routines: Demonstrate feeding, litter changes, and medication if needed.
- Leave extras: Extra food, litter, cleaning supplies, and even toys in case of delays.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What if my cat hides from the sitter?
It’s normal, especially with shy cats. Sitters from Chatty Cats Care are trained to deal with timid behaviour. Provide info about your cat’s hiding spots and encourage your sitter to interact calmly and respectfully.
Q2: Can I use a cat sitter for a cat with medical needs?
Yes, but ensure your sitter is experienced with administering medication. Chatty Cats Care employs sitters with advanced pet care training. Always disclose health conditions and provide vet instructions.
Q3: How do I find trusted cat sitting services near me?
Look for sitters on professional platforms or go with a trusted company like Chatty Cats Care, which operates in the cat sitter London space. Reviews, certifications, and insurance are good indicators of professionalism.
Q4: Will my cat be safe while I’m away?
Yes—especially if you’ve provided clear instructions. Use a reliable sitter, do a walkthrough before departure, and make sure your sitter provides regular updates. Safety and routine are at the heart of services like those from Chatty Cats Care.
Conclusion
Leaving your cat in someone else’s care can feel nerve-wracking, but preparation makes all the difference. When you provide thorough information about your cat’s health and routine, you empower your sitter to care for your cat just like you would.
Whether you’re hiring a friend or a seasoned cat sitter London like those at Chatty Cats Care, the goal is the same: a happy, healthy cat and peace of mind for you. Remember to include all relevant details—routine, food, medication, and behavioural cues—and your sitter will take it from there.
So next time you search for cat sitting services near me, be prepared to hand over not just your keys, but the confidence that your beloved feline is in safe, caring hands.