Booking a cat sitter involves more than outlining feeding times and litter box duties. There are subtle details about your cat’s personality, preferences, and daily rituals that can make a huge difference in their experience while you’re away. Sharing these extra insights helps transform basic care into a truly comforting, personalized experience.
At Pawlished Toronto, we know that it’s the small things that keep cats calm and happy. Here’s an in-depth look at often-overlooked details that every cat parent should share with their sitter to ensure exceptional care.
🐾 Hiding Spots and Safe Spaces
Cats find comfort in small, enclosed spaces. When they’re feeling anxious or simply need alone time, they retreat to favorite hideouts. These can include closets, under beds, behind appliances, or even inside cabinets.
Letting your sitter know all possible hiding spots ensures they can properly check on your cat’s well-being without stressing them. It also prevents panic if your cat can’t be found right away.
🍽️ Special Eating Quirks
Every cat has their own mealtime rituals. Some need their food served on a specific plate, slightly warmed, or arranged in a particular way. Others might only eat if someone is present in the room or if there’s gentle background noise.
Sharing these preferences helps your sitter maintain your cat’s appetite and avoids skipped meals, which can lead to digestive issues or more serious health problems.
🚪 Clearly Defined Off-Limits Areas
Cats are natural explorers. Without explicit instructions, a curious cat may sneak into a forbidden room or jump onto fragile surfaces.
Detail which areas are off-limits and provide tips on how to keep doors or barriers secure. This not only protects your belongings but also keeps your cat safe from potential hazards.
💊 Unique Health Quirks
Beyond major medical needs, many cats have small health quirks: occasional sneezing fits, mild hairball tendencies, or sensitive stomachs. Sharing this information allows your sitter to distinguish normal behavior from something that needs attention.
Document any regular medications, supplements, or homeopathic remedies your cat may take. Even subtle changes in behavior can be a red flag, so empowering your sitter with this knowledge is key.
🧶 Favorite Toys and Playtime Preferences
Play is essential for a cat’s mental and physical health. Some cats love interactive wand toys; others prefer chasing a simple ball or batting at a favorite stuffed mouse.
Detailing what toys engage your cat the most (and which they avoid) helps ensure they receive enjoyable, appropriate stimulation. This supports their emotional well-being and keeps them entertained while you’re away.
🗓️ Daily Rituals and Comforting Routines
Cats thrive on routine. Whether it’s sunbathing in a particular window every morning, performing post-breakfast zoomies, or expecting chin scratches before bed, these small rituals provide stability.
Informing your sitter about these habits allows them to replicate your cat’s day as closely as possible. Maintaining these routines reduces anxiety and supports overall emotional balance.
💡 Environmental Comfort Details
Explain the small things that help your cat feel secure: preferred sleeping blankets, specific music or background noise, and favorite window views. If they like watching birds from a certain perch or prefer a certain type of scratching post, let your sitter know.
This kind of personalized environment helps ease the stress of your absence and keeps your cat feeling calm and content.
🛁 Grooming and Handling Preferences
Some cats enjoy being brushed daily, while others detest grooming. If your cat tolerates nail trims or requires eye wiping, share specific instructions. Also, mention any spots they dislike being touched or any handling techniques that help keep them calm.
This prevents accidental stress or defensive behavior and keeps the grooming routine positive.
💧 Hydration Habits
Does your cat drink more from a fountain than a bowl? Do they prefer water in a certain location or from a specific type of dish? These details are crucial, especially for cats prone to urinary issues.
Make sure your sitter knows your cat’s drinking preferences to encourage proper hydration and support kidney health.
🔊 Noise Sensitivities and Comfort Cues
Some cats are startled by doorbells, loud voices, or certain appliances. Inform your sitter about these sensitivities so they can keep noise levels low or avoid triggering sounds.
Additionally, share any calming cues your cat responds to, such as certain words, gentle humming, or soft music.
🔑 Emergency Behavioral Patterns
What does your cat do when they’re scared? Do they hide under the bed or run to a certain closet? Letting your sitter know their default reaction to fear or stress helps them respond appropriately during unexpected situations.
Knowing these behaviors can also help in locating your cat quickly if they go into hiding.
🏥 Emergency Contact Nuances
Beyond simply listing your vet’s contact information, explain any special instructions for emergencies. Does your cat have a preferred carrier? Are there specific routes to your vet that avoid traffic?
Being clear about these logistical details can save valuable time during an urgent situation.
📝 Preparing a Comprehensive Profile
Compile all these details into a written profile or binder that your sitter can reference easily. Include photos of your cat’s favorite spots, toys, and sleeping positions to aid in monitoring their normal behavior.
This thorough preparation helps ensure continuity of care and allows your sitter to step seamlessly into your daily routine.
✨ Final Thoughts
The small details matter. Sharing these forgotten yet important insights transforms a standard cat sitting experience into one that feels truly comforting and familiar to your cat.
At Pawlished Toronto, we pride ourselves on paying attention to every detail, no matter how small. Our approach is designed to replicate your cat’s daily life as closely as possible, providing emotional support and stability in your absence.
Ready to work with a sitter who truly gets to know your cat inside and out? Book a complimentary meet & greet with Pawlished Toronto today.
Ensure your cat feels at home, even when you’re far away. 🐾✨
