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.
WHAT TIMES DO YOU DO YOUR VISITS?
When planning my schedule, I consider the needs of each cat. While I can't promise specific times, I aim to create a balanced schedule that meets my clients' needs. However, visits must fit into my overall timetable. If medication is needed, I'll do my best to accommodate specific times. For double services, one visit will occur in the morning and the other in the evening, spaced out as effectively as possible. For single 45 service, times may vary but will stay consistent within the same part of the day for the duration of the job.
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. Personal, 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?
If you need to cancel a service, no problem at all! You can cancel your entire booking without any fees right up until the last minute! However, on your return if you catch and early flight home or make better time on the road and don't require the final visits, please note I don't offer credits/refunds for this.
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 diabetic injection or sub-q fluid administration service. I don't currently charge extra for medication administration.
WILL YOU WATER MY OUTDOOR GARDEN?
For the home check service.... Of course! For my cat sitting service.... During my visits, my first priority is your cat/s: monitoring food intake/litter box use to make sure nothing is awry, and offering play time/affection to keep their spirits up in your absence. I'm happy to look after indoor plants while preforming cat duties, and I can make sure a number of pots and hanging baskets are watered, but if you have more extensive outdoor garden needs, the length of my visits may not accommodate their care without sacrificing time with your cat/s. Feel free to let me know your needs and we can game plan.
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. For my 'home check service' this should be okay, but lets discuss.
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!
DO YOU EVER TAKE TIME OFF?
I take a 10 day period off each year for a staycation which starts the last Friday of September through the 10 days that follow. If there are ever any other times I feel I need a quick break, you will be notified by email.
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 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 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