What Does a Pet Sitter Do? And Why Do Cats Always Seem to Judge Them?

Pet sitting is a profession that has gained significant popularity over the years, especially as more people consider their pets as integral members of their families. But what exactly does a pet sitter do? And why do cats, in particular, seem to have a knack for judging their every move? Let’s dive into the multifaceted world of pet sitting and explore the various responsibilities, challenges, and quirks that come with the job.

The Core Responsibilities of a Pet Sitter

At its core, a pet sitter’s primary responsibility is to care for pets while their owners are away. This can range from a few hours to several weeks, depending on the owner’s needs. The duties of a pet sitter can be broadly categorized into several key areas:

1. Feeding and Hydration

• Regular Meals: Pet sitters ensure that pets are fed according to their regular schedule. This includes preparing the right type and amount of food, whether it’s dry kibble, wet food, or a specialized diet.
• Fresh Water: Ensuring that pets have access to clean, fresh water at all times is crucial. This is especially important for animals like dogs and cats, who can become dehydrated quickly.

2. Exercise and Playtime

• Dog Walking: For dogs, regular walks are essential for their physical and mental well-being. Pet sitters often take dogs on walks, ensuring they get the exercise they need.
• Play Sessions: Cats, birds, and other pets also need stimulation. Pet sitters engage in play sessions using toys, laser pointers, or other interactive items to keep pets entertained and active.

3. Medication Administration

• Oral Medications: Some pets require daily medications. Pet sitters are often responsible for administering these, whether it’s a pill, liquid, or topical treatment.
• Injections: In some cases, pets may need injections, such as insulin for diabetic animals. Experienced pet sitters are trained to handle these tasks safely.

4. Grooming and Hygiene

• Brushing: Regular brushing helps keep a pet’s coat healthy and reduces shedding. Pet sitters may brush dogs, cats, or other furry pets as part of their routine care.
• Bathing: While not always necessary, some pets may require baths. Pet sitters can handle this task, ensuring the pet is clean and comfortable.
• Litter Box and Cage Cleaning: For cats, cleaning the litter box is a must. For smaller pets like rabbits or birds, cage cleaning is part of the job.

5. Companionship and Emotional Support

• Quality Time: Pets can experience anxiety or loneliness when their owners are away. Pet sitters provide companionship, spending quality time with the animals to help them feel secure.
• Behavior Monitoring: Observing a pet’s behavior is important. Changes in appetite, energy levels, or mood can indicate health issues that need attention.

6. Home Care

• Security Checks: Pet sitters often perform basic home security checks, such as bringing in the mail, adjusting lights, and ensuring doors and windows are secure.
• Plant Care: Some pet sitters also take care of household plants, ensuring they are watered and maintained while the owner is away.

The Challenges of Pet Sitting

While pet sitting can be a rewarding job, it’s not without its challenges. Here are some of the common issues pet sitters face:

1. Behavioral Issues

• Aggression: Some pets may exhibit aggressive behavior, especially if they are anxious or uncomfortable with a new person in their home.
• Separation Anxiety: Pets, particularly dogs, can suffer from separation anxiety when their owners are away. This can manifest in destructive behavior, excessive barking, or other stress-related issues.

2. Health Emergencies

• Unexpected Illness: Pets can fall ill unexpectedly, and pet sitters need to be prepared to handle emergencies. This might involve contacting the owner, taking the pet to the vet, or administering first aid.
• Injury: Accidents can happen, and pet sitters must be vigilant to prevent injuries. If an injury does occur, quick and appropriate action is necessary.

3. Logistical Challenges

• Scheduling: Balancing multiple clients and their pets’ needs can be challenging. Pet sitters often have to manage tight schedules to ensure all pets receive proper care.
• Travel: Some pet sitters travel between multiple homes in a day, which can be time-consuming and physically demanding.

4. Communication with Owners

• Updates: Keeping owners informed about their pet’s well-being is crucial. Pet sitters often send daily updates, photos, or videos to reassure owners that their pets are in good hands.
• Special Instructions: Owners may have specific instructions for their pet’s care. It’s important for pet sitters to follow these closely and communicate any concerns or questions.

The Quirks of Pet Sitting: Why Do Cats Judge?

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room—or rather, the cat on the windowsill. Why do cats seem to judge their pet sitters? Cats are known for their independent and sometimes aloof nature. They are creatures of habit and can be wary of new people entering their territory. Here are a few reasons why cats might seem to be judging their pet sitters:

1. Territorial Behavior

• Cats are territorial animals, and a new person in their home can be seen as an intruder. They may observe the pet sitter closely, trying to determine if they pose a threat.

2. Sensitivity to Change

• Cats are sensitive to changes in their environment. A new person caring for them can disrupt their routine, leading to cautious or judgmental behavior.

3. Communication Style

• Cats communicate differently than dogs. Their body language, vocalizations, and even their gaze can be misinterpreted as judgmental when they are simply assessing the situation.

4. Personality Traits

• Some cats are naturally more reserved or skeptical. They may take longer to warm up to a pet sitter, and their initial reactions can come across as judgmental.

Conclusion

Pet sitting is a multifaceted job that requires a blend of practical skills, empathy, and patience. From feeding and grooming to providing companionship and handling emergencies, pet sitters play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of pets when their owners are away. And while cats may seem to judge their pet sitters, it’s often just their way of navigating a new situation. Understanding and respecting a pet’s unique personality and needs is key to being a successful pet sitter.

Related Q&A

Q: How do I become a pet sitter? A: To become a pet sitter, you can start by gaining experience with animals, either through volunteering, working at a shelter, or caring for friends’ and family’s pets. You may also consider taking a pet care course or obtaining certification from a recognized organization.

Q: What should I look for in a pet sitter? A: When choosing a pet sitter, look for someone with experience, good references, and a genuine love for animals. It’s also important to ensure they are comfortable with your pet’s specific needs and have a plan for emergencies.

Q: How much does a pet sitter typically charge? A: The cost of a pet sitter can vary widely depending on factors like location, the number of pets, and the level of care required. On average, pet sitters charge between $15 to $50 per visit or $50 to $100 per day for overnight stays.

Q: Can pet sitters handle exotic pets? A: Some pet sitters specialize in caring for exotic pets like reptiles, birds, or small mammals. If you have an exotic pet, it’s important to find a sitter with experience and knowledge specific to your pet’s needs.

Q: What should I do if my pet doesn’t like the sitter? A: If your pet seems uncomfortable or stressed with a particular sitter, it’s important to address the issue. You may need to try a different sitter or consider alternative care options like a pet boarding facility.

Pet sitting is more than just a job—it’s a commitment to the well-being of animals. Whether you’re a pet owner looking for care or someone considering a career in pet sitting, understanding the responsibilities and challenges involved is essential. And remember, even if your cat seems to be judging the sitter, they’re likely just trying to figure out if this new person is worthy of their trust.