Finding a great cat sitter is like striking gold—someone who not only meets your cat’s needs but also earns their trust and affection. Since cats can be more reserved than dogs when it comes to new people, it’s natural to wonder how your feline feels about their temporary caregiver. Whether you’re using a professional pet-sitting service or relying on a trusted individual, here’s how to tell if your cat is truly comfortable with their sitter.
1. Your Cat Doesn’t Hide
Cats who feel uneasy with strangers will often retreat to their favorite hiding spots. If your cat stays in their usual areas or even comes out to observe the sitter, it’s a great sign. A curious glance or a slow blink in the sitter’s direction shows they’re feeling safe.
Red Flag: If your cat disappears for the entire visit, they might not feel comfortable yet.
2. They Seek Out Interaction
Cats express affection in subtle ways. If your cat does any of the following with their sitter, it means they’re warming up to them:
- Rubbing against their legs
- Head-butting or “booping” them with their nose
- Choosing to sit near or on them
- Purring when they’re petted
- Some cats take longer to warm up, but if your sitter consistently receives these signs, your cat sees them as a friend.
3. They Play During Visits
A cat that engages in play with their sitter feels relaxed and safe. If your sitter reports (or sends you a video of) your cat chasing a toy, batting at a feather wand, or engaging in zoomies, that’s a fantastic sign that they’re happy in the sitter’s care.
Red Flag: A cat who normally loves playtime but refuses to engage might still be adjusting or feeling stressed.
4. They Maintain Their Routine
Cats thrive on consistency. If your cat eats, drinks, uses the litter box, and sleeps as usual while in the sitter’s care, it means they feel secure. A great pet sitter will respect your cat’s schedule and minimize disruptions.
Red Flag: Sudden changes in eating or litter box habits could signal stress or discomfort.
5. They Respond to the Sitter’s Voice
Cats recognize familiar voices and respond positively to those they trust. If your sitter tells you that your cat comes when called, meows back in conversation, or approaches them when they speak, it’s a strong sign of comfort.
6. They Relax in Their Presence
A relaxed cat is a happy cat. If your sitter reports (or shows you photos of) your cat lounging, stretching out, or exposing their belly, it means they feel safe. Cats won’t display these behaviors around someone they don’t trust.
7. They Greet the Sitter
Does your cat approach the sitter when they arrive? Even if they don’t run to the door like a dog, simply staying in the room, peeking around a corner, or giving a slow blink is a positive sign. Some cats will even follow a sitter around or “supervise” their activities.
8. They Eat and Drink Normally
Stress can cause cats to refuse food or water. If your sitter notes that your cat is eating and drinking as usual, it’s a strong indication that they feel comfortable and at ease.
Red Flag: If your cat refuses food for multiple visits, it could mean stress or an underlying health issue. Make sure your sitter updates you on any changes.
What If Your Cat Seems Unhappy?
Not every cat warms up to a new sitter immediately. If your cat hides, refuses food, or seems withdrawn at first, they may just need more time. However, if these behaviors persist, it might be worth discussing with your sitter:
Are they respecting your cat’s boundaries? A good sitter won’t force interaction.
Are they following your cat’s routine? Even small disruptions can unsettle some cats.
Does your cat behave differently with other sitters? If your cat has reacted well to a previous sitter but not the current one, it may be worth considering a change.
Final Thoughts
A great cat sitter will not only meet your pet’s needs but also build a relationship of trust and comfort. Observing your cat’s behavior and checking in with your sitter can help ensure that your feline friend is happy while you’re away. If your cat greets their sitter, plays, eats well, and maintains their routine, you can rest easy knowing they’re in good hands!
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