Your Complete Guide on Prepping for Your Cat Sitter | Cat Sitter | Cat Care Taker

As a devoted cat parent, you understand that your cat is more than just a pet — they’re family.

When it’s time to leave town (or just take a well-earned break), prepping for your cat sitter isn’t just another to-do—it’s an expression of love.

As a seasoned sitter and cat enthusiast, I’ve encountered every feline personality — from fearful-avoidant types to extroverted prima donnas who demand attention (and snacks) on schedule. And I’m writing this guide to help you prepare your home for a seamless experience for your kitty in a way that suits their unique needs, giving you the peace of mind you deserve during your time away.

Taking time to properly prepare for your cat sitter sets the stage for your stay-at-home starlet. A well-prepped home means:

Your cat maintains their essential routine, minimizing stress during your absence
Your sitter can focus on giving the best care, not searching for the trash can
You can actually relax, knowing your kitty is in good care

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Step 1: Schedule a Meet-and-Greet

Before entrusting your home and furry family member to a sitter, arrange a meet-and-greet that allows for:

A guided tour of your cat’s favorite napping spots and hiding places
Walk through daily routines, feeding rituals, and any quirks or special considerations
Share the “do not disturb” list—like the plant they’re convinced is a salad bar

"Your peace of mind is our mission. A proper introduction helps us understand your kitty's unique personality, so we can provide the best care.”

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Step 2: Prepare Kitty Care Instructions

Even experienced cat sitters appreciate detailed cheat sheets. Prepare a document covering:

Feeding: Food type, precise portions, and serving times
Hydration: Preferred water setup and frequency of refreshing
Litter: Type, location, and your preferred cleaning schedule.
Medications: Dosage, timing, and administration tips.
Enrichment: Favorite toys, games, and social interaction preferences
Behavioral Notes: Important personality traits and comfort zones
Emergency Info: Veterinary details, your insurance information, and a local friend or neighbor’s contact information.

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Step 3: Organize and Set Out Supplies

Make your sitter’s job easier by ensuring everything is readily available:

Food: Supply enough for your trip plus a 2-3 day buffer (just in case).
Litter: Fully stocked and freshly scooped
Medications: Clearly labeled and easy to find.
Enrichment Toys: A selection of favorite playthings and comfort objects. Leave out a mix—cats love novelty.
Cleaning Supplies: Lint rollers, paper towels, and pet-safe cleaners. Everything needed to maintain a clean environment.
Carrier & Emergency Kit: Carrier and basic first aid supplies accessible. Just in case.

Cheeky tip: Label everything—sticky notes are your friend! (“Litter scoop: Not a pasta spoon.”)

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Step 4: Create a Cat-Friendly Environment

A few thoughtful adjustments can enhance your cat's comfort during your absence:

Secure Boundaries: Close off any areas that should remain cat-free
Comfort Zones: Ensure favorite resting spots are accessible and inviting
Safety Check: Remove potential hazards like loose items or toxic plants
Familiar Scents: Leave an unwashed clothing item with your scent for comfort

Fun fact: Cats spend up to 70% of their lives sleeping—so don’t be surprised if your sitter’s updates are mostly glamour shots of your eepy starlet.

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Step 5: Establish Communication Expectations

Discuss how you'd like to receive updates about your cat:

Daily photos or videos of your cat
Text message updates on meals and activities
Special moments or notable behaviors

Cheeky tip: Create a DIY kitty photo booth (i.e., a corner of your home decorated with something cute, a favorite toy, and a treat nearby). You’ll get the best pics for your own photo albums—and maybe even our community Instagram!

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Step 6: Make the world a Kittier Place

At Kristin's Kitty Care, we believe in fostering connections. Share your cat's story, join our community events, or participate in our monthly newsletters. Together, we can create a supportive network of cat parents across San Francisco!

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Quick Checklist: Cat Sitting San Francisco Style

☑️ Meet-and-greet scheduled

☑️ Kitty care instructions prepared

☑️ Food, litter, and medical supplies stocked and organized

☑️ Home environment adjusted for cat comfort (Toys/comfort items out and home cat-proofed)

☑️ Communication plan set

☑️ Emergency info readily available

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Tips for Extra Peace of Mind

Consider a pheromone diffuser for anxious cats
Set up a bird feeder outside a window for natural entertainment
Leave soft music playing to maintain a sense of activity in the home
Ensure favorite perches and hiding spots remain accessible

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Our Commitment to You

Above all else, know that your cat sitter appreciates the trust you place in them when you entrust your cat to their care.

And as your life-long partner in kitty care, our team honors your trust by:

Focusing exclusively on cats and their unique needs
Providing custom care tailored to your cat's individual personality
Sending detailed updates that keep you connected to your cat, sitter and community
Building genuine connections that foster joy and peace of mind

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Ready to Book Your Cat Sitter?

If you’re searching for boutique cat sitting services in San Francisco, we are here to help. Our team of kitty professionals will keep your cat pampered—complete with updates, playtime, and love.

Book your meet-and-greet today and join a community of people who know that happy kitties make for happy homes.

Let’s keep San Francisco purring!

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