The Catered Cat
Policy Question & Answers
WHO WILL VISIT MY CAT?
Me! Since 2001, I have personally taken care of each and every Catered Cat cat sitting client. Many pet care services these days rely on a network of employees and contractors, but I feel strongly that cats need stability, not a revolving door. I work hard to earn the trust of each cat on my roster, so that I can be a reassuring presence when their human family is away.
HOW MUCH NOTICE DO YOU NEED?
For first time clients I need at least one week notice before job start date in order to have enough time to schedule the new client introductory meeting. Once you are on board as a Catered Cat client I can usually accommodate even last minute requests.
HOW DO I DETERMINE THE BEST SERVICE FOR MY CAT?
Choosing the perfect service for your cat is all understanding their unique personality! Generally, if your cat enjoys company, opting for the double services can be a fantastic choice while you're away. However, some cats may prefer less interaction due to their more unsocial nature, in which case the single service might be just what they need. Take into account your cat's shyness for which extra time may be needed for them to adjust, and whether they have a buddy at home to keep them company. Consider your cat's stress levels when left alone and the duration of your absence. Personally, I favor the double services for social cats as they break up alone time better and add more stimulation throughout your cat's day.
MY CAT HAS A CAT DOOR WHICH HE COMES AND GOES THROUGH IS THIS OKAY?
No, I'm sorry but all cats need to stay inside while they are under my care. It's the only way I can properly monitor them and I just want them safe and sound upon your arrival home. Secure catios are fine and if your cat is use to walking on leash I might be able to do that once I've established a relationship with them first but no free roaming.
IN THE EVENT OF SNOW OR ICE WILL YOU BE ABLE TO GET TO MY CAT?
Yes! I've keep my route tight so that if there is weather that makes it unsafe to drive, I can walk. I love walking and I have yak trax that make walking in the snow a breeze! My entire service area is very walkable for me so rest assured I will get to your cat!
WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL A SERVICE?
Cancellations are hassle-free and can be made without any fees right up until the start of a service! Please note that early returns won't qualify for credits or refunds. In case of a genuine emergency that shortens your trip considerably, a credit may be given at my discretion.
WILL YOU MEDICATE MY CATS?
I have lots of experience giving cats medication. I can't, however, guarantee I will be able to medicate all cats but I'm versed in various techniques so I'm quite comfortable doing it. However, although I do medicate, I do not take on first-time clients as medication clients. Cats need to come on board first without medication needs. I am, however, no longer offering a service for injections. I don't currently charge extra for medication administration.
DO YOU WATCH OTHER PETS IN THE HOUSEHOLD?
I do not sit for households that do not have a cat. As far as other pet companions in the home, I'm happy to provide basic fish care for aquariums.
IS IT OKAY IF MY HOUSE CLEANER/HANDYMAN ETC...ENTER THE HOME WHILE YOU ARE ON DUTY?
My worst nightmare is having a cat escape while you're away and I have realized over the years that not many service providers are as vigilant as I am. I would like to avoid ANY possibility of your cat/s being startled by unusual commotion and dashing out the door. I respectfully request that no other services be preformed inside your home while your cat/s are under my care.
WILL YOU SHARE A JOB WITH MY NEIGHBOR OR FRIEND?
During the dates I am scheduled to watch your cat, due to liability issues I need to be the only one caring for your cat.
DO YOU WORK HOLIDAYS?
Absolutely! I devote my holidays to the business to try and ensure my clients' needs are met even during busy times. With that said, if you normally use friends, neighbors or another pet care service and are just looking for holiday coverage, this isn't something I'm going to be able to accommodate. Being a one-woman shop I need to reserve my holidays slots for clients who use me year-round for their cat sitting needs. I don't charge extra holiday fees with the exception of 7/1-7/7. This is 'boom week' which is very hard on the cats and therefore it's also hard on me- extra cuddles are necessary!
WHAT TAKES PLACE AT THE INTRODUCTORY MEETING?
At the free no-obligation meeting, we all get acquainted, humans and felines, at your residence. I will send you paperwork for you to fill out covering service details including pet and home care via email ahead of our meeting so that we can go over. I will get keys from you (or keypad/lock box codes) so that I can access your home. I do not do zoom meetings. I feel it's important to meet you and your cat/s in person as well as it's reassuring for your cat/s to meet me with you present, before I come in while you are away.
HOW DO I GET STARTED?
Just email me to go over your needs. If I can add a new client to my roster and if it sounds like we may be a good fit we can set up a new client introductory meeting Contact me