Cat Sitting FAQs: Everything You Need to Know Before Booking a Professional Cat Sitter
Updated July 2026
If you’ve never used a professional cat sitter before, it’s completely natural to have questions.
You might be wondering how the service works, how often your cat should be visited, what happens in an emergency, or whether your cat would be happier staying at home instead of going to a cattery.
I’ve put together this guide to answer the questions I’m most often asked by cat owners in Finchley, East Finchley, North Finchley, Muswell Hill, and the surrounding areas.
If you don’t find the answer you’re looking for, please get in touch. I’m always happy to discuss your cat’s individual needs before you book.
Helpful guides before you start
Why Choose a Professional Cat Sitter?
Cats are creatures of habit.
Unlike many dogs, they usually feel happiest in familiar surroundings where everything smells, sounds and looks the way they expect.
That’s why many owners now choose a professional cat sitter rather than move their cat to a cattery.
By staying at home, your cat can continue to enjoy their normal routine while receiving daily care, fresh food, clean water, and companionship.
For many cats, this means less stress and a much more relaxed experience while you’re away.
If you’d like to understand why, read my guide:
Why Cats Prefer Staying at Home Instead of a Cattery
Before You Book
Which Areas Do You Cover?
I provide professional cat-sitting visits across:
- Finchley
- North Finchley
- East Finchley
- Muswell Hill
- Highgate
- Whetstone (subject to availability)
- Selected surrounding areas
If you’re unsure whether I cover your area, please ask.
You can also view my Service Area page for more information.
How Do I Book?
Booking is straightforward.
Step 1
Contact me through the website, by email or via WhatsApp.
We’ll discuss:
- Your dates.
- Your location.
- Your cat’s routine.
- How many visits may be required.
Step 2
We’ll arrange a free meet-and-greet at your home.
This gives us the opportunity to:
- Meet each other.
- Meet your cat.
- Discuss feeding routines.
- Go through medications if required.
- Collect important information.
- Answer any questions.
It also allows your cat to become familiar with me before the first visit.
Step 3
Once everything is confirmed, your booking is secured.
I’ll explain key arrangements, emergency contacts and exactly what will happen while you’re away.
Do You Offer a Free Meet and Greet?
Yes.
I believe it’s important that both you and your cat feel comfortable before the first visit.
The meet and greet allows us to:
- Discuss your cat’s personality.
- Learn their normal routine.
- Understand any medical conditions.
- Go through feeding instructions.
- Locate food, litter and cleaning supplies.
- Confirm key arrangements.
- Exchange emergency contact details.
It’s also a chance for you to decide whether I’m the right person to care for your cat.
How Much Notice Should I Give?
As much as possible.
School holidays, Easter, Christmas and the summer months are always popular.
Booking early gives you the best chance of securing your preferred dates.
Last-minute bookings may sometimes be available, but I can’t guarantee availability.
Can I Book Regular Visits?
Absolutely.
While many people use my services during holidays, some clients also arrange visits because they:
- Work long hours.
- Spend regular nights away.
- Need help with medication.
- Require temporary support following illness or surgery.
If you have ongoing requirements, I’m happy to discuss a regular arrangement.
About Your Visits
What Happens During Each Visit?
Every visit is tailored to your cat’s individual routine.
Depending on your instructions, a typical visit may include:
- Feeding fresh food.
- Refreshing drinking water.
- Cleaning the litter tray.
- Washing food bowls if needed.
- General welfare check.
- Play and enrichment.
- Grooming if appropriate.
- Opening or closing curtains.
- Bringing in post.
- Watering indoor plants by prior arrangement.
- Sending updates and photographs.
Most importantly, I take time to make sure your cat is comfortable and behaving normally.
How Long Is Each Visit?
The length of each visit depends on the service you’ve booked and your cat’s individual needs.
Some cats are happy after food, fuss and a welfare check.
Others enjoy a longer play session or simply appreciate somebody sitting quietly while they eat.
We’ll discuss what’s most appropriate during the meet-and-greet.
Will My Cat Receive Plenty of Attention?
Yes—but always on your cat’s terms.
Some cats want to play as soon as I arrive.
Others prefer to observe me from the stairs before deciding whether they feel sociable.
Both are perfectly normal.
I never force interaction.
Building trust comes from patience, consistency and respecting each cat’s personality.
Del’s Tip
One of the biggest differences between looking after dogs and cats is learning to let the cat make the first move.
Many cats become much more confident when they realise there’s no pressure to interact.
By quietly following their normal routine, refreshing food and water, cleaning the litter tray and simply being calm, it’s often not long before curiosity gets the better of them.
Neighbour or Professional Cat Sitter?
Many owners ask a friend or neighbour to feed their cat while they’re away.
Sometimes that’s the right decision.
However, it’s worth considering the differences.
| Friend or Neighbour | Professional Cat Sitter |
|---|---|
| May have limited experience | Experienced caring for different cats |
| Visits may fit around their own schedule | Visits arranged as agreed |
| May not recognise signs of illness | Carries out a welfare check at every visit |
| May be unsure about medication | Can administer agreed medication where appropriate |
| May not know what to do in an emergency | Emergency procedures discussed before your holiday |
| Usually provides basic feeding | Provides routine, care, enrichment and observation |
Neither option is automatically right or wrong.
The important thing is choosing someone you trust to care for your cat properly while you’re away.
Frequently Asked Booking Questions
Can you look after indoor cats?
Yes.
Indoor cats often benefit particularly well from professional visits because their entire world is inside your home.
Maintaining their normal routine, keeping litter trays clean and providing interaction can help reduce stress while you’re away.
Can you look after outdoor cats?
Yes.
I’ll follow the routine we’ve agreed together, including whether your cat should remain indoors during your holiday or continue their normal outdoor access.
Your cat’s safety will always come first.
Can you care for more than one cat?
Absolutely.
Many households have two or more cats.
During our meet-and-greet, we’ll discuss each cat’s routine, feeding requirements, and personality so every cat receives the care they need.
Do you care for nervous or rescue cats?
Yes.
Some of the most rewarding cats I’ve looked after have been shy or rescued cats who simply needed time and patience.
I never rush interactions or expect every cat to behave the same way.
Respecting their space is often the quickest way to build trust.
Related Guides
You may also find these articles helpful before booking:
- Why Cats Prefer Staying at Home Instead of a Cattery
- What Your Cat Does While You’re on Holiday
- Can Cats Get Lonely?
- Cat Care Advice Hub.
Can You Give My Cat Medication?
Yes, this has been agreed in advance during our meet-and-greet.
Many cats require daily medication, whether that’s tablets, liquid medication, insulin, eye drops or topical treatments. During our initial visit, we’ll go through your cat’s routine, so I understand exactly what needs to be given, when it should be administered and the best way to help your cat stay calm.
I’ll also discuss what to do if your cat refuses medication or if there are any concerns while you’re away.
If your cat has complex medical needs, please let me know before booking so we can decide whether my service is suitable.
For advice on recognising signs of illness, see my Complete Cat Care Guide.
What Happens If My Cat Becomes Ill While I’m Away?
Your cat’s welfare is always my priority.
If I notice anything unusual during a visit, such as changes in appetite, behaviour, breathing, mobility or litter tray habits, I’ll contact you as soon as possible.
If urgent veterinary attention is required, I’ll follow the emergency plan we agreed during the meet and greet.
This is why I ask every client to provide:
- Your usual veterinary practice.
- An emergency contact.
- Alternative contact details if you’re travelling.
- Information about any existing medical conditions.
Planning ahead means decisions can be made quickly if needed.
The PDSA recommends seeking prompt veterinary advice whenever a cat shows signs of illness rather than waiting to see if they improve.
Will You Keep Me Updated?
Yes.
One of the things clients tell me they appreciate most is knowing how their cat is getting on while they’re away.
Updates usually include:
- A message after each visit.
- Photographs of your cat where possible.
- Information about eating and drinking.
- Confirmation that the litter tray has been cleaned.
- Anything else you may wish to know.
Some cats are naturally more photogenic than others!
If your cat decides today’s mission is to hide under the spare bed, I’ll let you know they’re safe rather than disturb them just to take a photograph.
What If My Cat Hides?
This is completely normal.
Many cats hide when someone unfamiliar enters their home.
Others greet me at the door from the very first visit.
Every cat is different.
I never force interaction or chase a nervous cat around the house.
Instead, I’ll quietly carry out the agreed routine, speak calmly and allow your cat to approach if they choose.
In my experience, patience almost always works better than persuasion.
If your cat has favourite hiding places, it’s helpful to point these out during the meet and greet so I know where they’re likely to be.
Can You Look After Rescue Cats or Nervous Cats?
Yes.
Some of the most rewarding cats I’ve cared for have been rescues or naturally shy cats.
These cats often benefit from consistency, patience and a predictable routine rather than lots of attention.
I’ll always work at your cat’s pace.
Whether they want to play, sit quietly nearby or simply observe from across the room, that’s entirely their choice.
Read my guide: How a calm sitter can help
Can You Bring In My Post?
Yes.
While visiting your cat I can usually:
- Bring in post.
- Take in small parcels left safely.
- Open or close curtains.
- Turn lights on or off as agreed.
- Water indoor plants by prior arrangement.
These small jobs help make your home look occupied while you’re away and are often included in your cat-sitting visits.
If you have any additional requests, please mention them during the meet-and-greet.
What Do I Need to Leave Before I Go Away?
Before your holiday, I’ll ask you to leave:
- Enough food for the entire booking.
- Cat litter.
- Any medication.
- Feeding instructions.
- Emergency contact numbers.
- Your vet’s details.
- House keys or agreed access arrangements.
- Alarm instructions if applicable.
- Information about your cat’s normal routine.
The more information you can provide, the easier it is for me to keep everything as familiar as possible for your cat.
You may also find my guide What Your Cat Does While You’re on Holiday useful before travelling.
How Are Keys Handled?
Your home’s security is extremely important.
We’ll agree on the most convenient way to hand over and return your keys during the meet-and-greet.
Keys are never labelled with your name or address.
If you have any specific security procedures or alarm systems, we’ll discuss those before your booking begins.
How Often Should My Cat Be Visited?
The answer depends on your cat’s age, health and personality.
As a general guide:
- Healthy adult cats often require at least one visit each day.
- Kittens usually benefit from more frequent visits.
- Elderly cats may need additional monitoring.
- Cats receiving medication may require multiple visits.
During the meet and greet, we’ll discuss the most appropriate routine for your cat.
You can also read my guides:
Is Cat Sitting Better Than a Cattery?
For many cats, yes.
Cats are naturally territorial animals.
Remaining in their own home allows them to keep their familiar surroundings, routines and favourite sleeping places.
This often results in less stress than travelling to an unfamiliar environment.
However, every cat is different.
Some confident, sociable cats cope perfectly well in a cattery, while others are much happier staying at home.
I’ve written a detailed comparison here:
Why Cats Prefer Staying at Home Instead of a Cattery
How Far In Advance Should I Book?
As early as possible.
School holidays, Easter, Christmas and the summer months are my busiest times of year.
Booking several weeks or even months in advance is always recommended if you have fixed travel dates.
If you’re planning a last-minute trip, please get in touch, and I’ll always check my availability.
How Much Does Cat Sitting Cost?
Prices vary depending on:
- The number of visits required.
- The length of each visit.
- Your location.
- Any additional care requirements.
Rather than duplicate prices here, you’ll always find my latest prices on the:
Pet Care Prices page.
What Happens If My Holiday Is Delayed?
Travel delays happen.
If your return home is delayed due to cancelled flights, transport disruption, or another unexpected situation, contact me as soon as possible.
If I’m available, I’ll do everything I reasonably can to continue caring for your cat until you’re able to return.
While this can’t always be guaranteed during busy periods, having an agreed emergency plan before you travel makes unexpected situations much easier to manage.
Why Choose Finchley Dog Walker for Cat Sitting?
Choosing someone to care for your cat is an important decision.
Since 2011, I’ve been providing calm, reliable pet care for owners across Finchley and the surrounding areas.
My approach is based on treating every cat as an individual.
I don’t rush visits or expect every cat to behave the same way.
Some cats enjoy playing.
Others simply appreciate a familiar routine, a clean litter tray and someone who understands that trust takes time.
Before running Finchley Dog Walker, I also spent 18 years helping to care for the company cats where I worked, including Devon Rex, Siamese and Sphynx cats. That experience taught me that no two cats are alike, and it’s a lesson I carry into every visit today.
If you’d like to know more about my approach to caring for cats, you’ll find plenty of practical advice in my Cat Care Advice Hub and guidance from organisations such as International Cat Care, Cats Protection and the RSPCA.
This combination of professional experience, ongoing learning, and a calm, patient approach is what I aim to bring to every cat-sitting visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you look after more than one cat?
Yes.
Many of my clients have two or more cats. During the meet and greet we’ll discuss each cat’s personality, feeding routine and any individual requirements so every cat receives the care they need.
Some cats enjoy each other’s company, while others prefer their own space. Understanding those relationships helps me provide the best possible care.
Will you play with my cat?
Absolutely, if that’s what your cat enjoys.
Some cats love chasing feather toys or playing with balls, while others are happier sitting quietly for a fuss or simply having someone nearby while they eat.
Every visit is tailored to your cat rather than following the same routine for every household.
Can you groom my cat?
Basic brushing can usually be included if your cat enjoys being groomed and we’ve discussed it beforehand.
Grooming isn’t forced. If your cat isn’t comfortable, I’d rather keep the visit calm and positive.
Can you feed raw food?
Yes, provided feeding instructions are discussed during the meet and greet and the food has been stored safely.
I’ll always follow your normal routine as closely as possible.
Can you care for elderly cats?
Yes.
Senior cats often benefit from staying in their own familiar environment.
Many require a little more monitoring, particularly if they’re taking medication or have mobility issues.
You can read more in my Complete Cat Care Guide.
Can you look after kittens?
Yes.
Kittens often need more frequent visits because they have lots of energy, eat more regularly and enjoy interactive play.
We’ll discuss the most appropriate routine before your booking.
What if my cat doesn’t eat while I’m there?
Some cats are cautious when their owners are away and may eat less during the first visit or two.
I’ll always let you know if I’ve noticed any changes in appetite.
If I’m concerned, I’ll contact you to discuss the next steps.
Will you clean up any little accidents?
Of course.
If your cat has an accident outside the litter tray, I’ll clean the area where practical and let you know.
Accidents can sometimes be a sign of stress or illness, so I’ll also monitor whether it happens again.
Can you open windows for ventilation?
Only if we’ve agreed this beforehand and it’s safe to do so.
Your cat’s safety always comes first.
What happens if there’s a power cut?
I’ll contact you if the power cut affects your home during your holiday and discuss any action that may be needed.
Where appropriate, I’ll also follow any emergency instructions you’ve left.
Can you visit at the same time every day?
I’ll always aim to keep visits as consistent as possible.
While exact times can’t always be guaranteed due to traffic, weather and emergencies, maintaining your cat’s routine is important, and I’ll do my best to visit within the agreed time period.
Are you insured?
Yes.
Professional insurance gives both you and me additional peace of mind while I’m caring for your cat and visiting your home.
If you’d like further information about my insurance cover, please ask during the meet-and-greet.
Are you DBS checked?
Yes.
I’m Enhanced DBS-checked through my voluntary role as a Group Lead Volunteer with 224 North London Air Scouts.
Many clients find this reassuring when inviting someone into their home.
What if I need to cancel my booking?
I understand that plans sometimes change.
Please let me know as soon as possible if you need to cancel or alter your booking.
Any cancellation terms will be explained before your booking is confirmed.
Do you work on Bank Holidays?
Yes, subject to availability.
Bank Holidays and Christmas are extremely popular, so early booking is recommended.
Why Clients Choose Finchley Dog Walker
There are many people who offer pet sitting.
What clients often tell me they value most is knowing their cat is cared for by someone who genuinely enjoys spending time with cats and understands that each one is different.
When you book with Finchley Dog Walker, you can expect:
- Calm, patient one-to-one care.
- Professional pet care since 2011.
- Experience with kittens, senior cats and rescue cats.
- Daily welfare checks during every visit.
- Regular updates and photographs.
- Respect for your cat’s normal routine.
- Honest communication throughout your holiday.
I don’t believe in rushing from house to house.
Each visit is an opportunity to ensure your cat is safe, comfortable, and settled before I leave.
Helpful Cat Care Guides
If you’re preparing for a holiday or simply want to learn more about caring for your cat, these guides may be useful.
Holiday and Cat Sitting
- Professional Cat Sitting in Finchley
- Why Cats Prefer Staying at Home Instead of a Cattery
- What Your Cat Does While You’re on Holiday
- Can Cats Get Lonely?
- Leaving Cats Alone Overnight
General Cat Care
- Complete Cat Care Advice Hub
- 5 Essential Cat Care Tips Every Owner Should Know
- Keeping Cats Cool During Hot Weather
Still Have a Question?
Choosing someone to care for your cat is a personal decision, and it’s important that you feel completely comfortable before booking.
If there’s anything you haven’t found on this page, I’d be happy to answer your questions.
Whether you’re planning a summer holiday, a weekend away or need regular cat visits while you’re at work, we can discuss the best option for you and your cat.
You can also find more information on my Cat Sitting Service, view my latest prices or get in touch through my Contact page.
I’d be delighted to help keep your cat happy, safe and comfortable while you’re away.
Trusted Sources of Cat Care Advice
As well as my own experience, I recommend these organisations for reliable, evidence-based information about cat health and welfare.
- Cats Protection
- International Cat Care
- RSPCA – Cats
- PDSA – Looking After Your Cat
Disclaimer
The information on this page is intended as general guidance based on my professional experience and recognised animal welfare advice. Every cat is different, and this information should not replace advice from your veterinary surgeon. If your cat is unwell or you’re concerned about their health, always contact your vet promptly.
