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If you are a cat lover or own cats, looking for means to make some extra money, cat sitting may have been an option you have considered. The cat-sitting business seems to be in demand, as 78% of cat owners are always looking for people to take care of their pets when they are away. If you are new to the business, you would want to ensure you build a great reputation by being the perfect host to your new furry guest! Here are three tips to remember as a first-time cat sitter to ensure you offer excellent service.
Get to know the cat before accepting to cat sit
Like people, not all cats are the same. As cat parents would tell you, there are various unique quirks and traits that each cat portrays. Therefore, to ensure that you deliver the best services, getting to know the cat before you accept a cat sit is vital. There are several ways to get to know a cat. You can start by asking the owners the right questions, such as how the cat reacts to being without being around its owners, what makes them upset or hungry, or the longest time they have been away from home. Spending time with the cats frequently before cat-sitting them is also a great way of getting to know them. In addition to helping you provide the best services, getting to know the cat helps determine if this would be good for you and the cat.
Ensure the cats are active
One aspect of cat sitting first-timers usually forget about is providing ways to keep the cats active. Although it is important to feed, groom, and manage their litter box, ensuring the guest cats get some exercise is also important. Just like humans, frequent inactivity can cause the cat to gain unhealthy weight, which could lead to diseases such as diabetes. Therefore, to ensure they are healthy when they are with you, you should ensure you keep the cats active. Exercise also improves their mental health, prevents boredom, and allows them to be expressive. But how can you ensure this? Well, you can consider giving them toys —client-approved, of course. It would be best to consider installing a cat cage to give them space to play, stretch, and move about.
Be aware of their medical conditions and be prepared
Before taking the gig, ask the owners about any medical conditions the cat may have. If they do, be sure to take the medication and note the other relevant information, such as their vet’s number, in the case of an emergency. You should also know what they are allergic to and the necessary steps to take if they come in contact with these allergens. Even if the cat you will be sitting with seems in good condition, it is important to be prepared for any health issues. Familiarise yourself with the symptoms of common illnesses in cats, and have emergency contacts and a first aid kit to offer assistance when needed.
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