Finding a Cat Sitter

Written by Greer Grenley, Rover.com community member.

First published Jan 27, 2018

Rover.com is the nation’s largest online network of 5-star pet sitters and dog walkers. The platform is available via web, as well as Android and iOS app.

Many dog owners use Rover.com for dog sitting, boarding, and walking, and even its title suggests it’s catered towards dogs. However, did you know they also help pair you with a cat sitter? So feline lovers: no worries–Rover can find the right cat care for you!

However, with all of this in mind, there are important things to consider.

Know What Services You’re Looking For

When you’re sorting through each sitter’s profile, pay attention to the services they provide. Some will stay over to house sit while others prefer to change the litter boxes, play with the cats for a bit, and then head out. Some sitters will watch multiple animals, while others feel more comfortable watching just one. Do you have an elderly cat who needs medication? Is your kitty allergic to certain things? All sitters have different types of experience, so be transparent about your needs.

Schedule a Meet and Greet

I can’t stress this enough – it’s important for your cat and the sitter to get along well, so you’ll want to schedule a time for them to come to your house before you agree to their services. Rover.com has hand-screened every sitter with background checks, so they’ll be respectful in your home when they meet you for the first time. Just like humans, every cat is different, so they may not like every person. Your cat has to feel a connection to the sitter, and vice versa. That’s totally okay; after all, cats are known for being fickle. There will definitely be a good fit out there, and that’s why the Meet and Greet is essential.

Do Your Research

Make sure you’ve researched all of Rover.com’s policies so you understand how it works. For example, every booking is covered by premium insurance and a 24 hour helpline, so read through those details. Carefully browse each sitter’s profile so that you’re on the same page about the services they offer and the availability they have. Some may work during the day and can only drop in during the evening while others have a more flexible schedule, so make sure these are things you’re okay with. When you meet with the potential sitter in person, ask for clarification on anything you aren’t sure about.

Be Mindful of The Sitter

Even the most confident pet sitter will have questions. They want you to be happy with their service and to enjoy your vacation, but they also want to feel comfortable reaching out to you. You want their transition into your home to be seamless, so make sure you’ve given them all of the information they’ll need. Show them how to interact with your cat, where to put the soiled litter, where the toys are for playtime, how to get into your house, and anything else that will help them provide you with their 5-star cat sitter service.

When finding sitter cat services, cat owners want to make sure your cat’s specific needs are met, so consider not only giving care instructions verbally but leaving written notes too, as a reminder. Explain what services you require, including any litter box cleaning you expect from the sitter’s care visits.

Compare Prices

Every sitter charges a different amount. Read multiple profiles and check their reviews so that you know what services you’re getting for your money. It’s totally normal for you to meet with more than one sitter – it’s important for you to weigh your options and choose the person that is right for you. The health and safety of your cat is your top priority, and sometimes it takes more than one Meet and Greet for you to feel comfortable. Rover.com sitters are professional, so they’ll understand if you choose not to go with their service.

If you follow all of these steps, you’ll find an appropriate sitter and will rest at ease while you’re away. Remember, Rover.com is always there for you! You’re also covered by the Rover Guarantee and Reservation Protection – when you reserve pet sitting services, if the sitter has to cancel, the platform will help you find a suitable alternative option.

FTC Disclosure: This is a sponsored post, which means that I was financially compensated to feature this content. Regardless of payment received, we will only post topics that we believe our readers will find of interest.