Cat Care for Dog People

Cats want stability: the same feeding routine, a clean litter box (non-negotiable), fresh water, and calm, respectful interaction. Your biggest value as a sitter is noticing small changes early, because cats are impressively good at acting fine while feeling not fine.

This guide is written for sitters who are caring for someone else’s cat (especially if you’re more of a dog person). It focuses on what matters during check-ins and overnight stays: routines, safety, and spotting problems early.

Quick takeaway: your job is stability

Cats usually don’t want “a new best friend.” They want:

• The same routine, every time
• A clean litter box (non-negotiable)
• Reliable food and water
• Calm, respectful interaction
• Observation for subtle health changes

1) Before you accept the sit: what to confirm with the owner

Ask for specifics. “Just feed them” is never enough.

Must-have info

• Feeding schedule + amounts (brand, wet vs dry, treats)
• Litter routine (how often to scoop, where supplies are)
• Play and enrichment (what toys they like, how long)
• Medical needs (meds, supplements, allergies, past urinary issues)
• House rules (rooms that are off-limits, balcony/window safety)
• Hiding spots (normal vs concerning)
• Emergency plan
  • Vet name + address + phone
  • Nearest 24/7 emergency clinic
  • Who can authorize treatment and spending limit

Key sitter question

“What would make you worry if you saw it on camera?”

That helps you align on what’s normal for that cat.

2) First visit checklist (the 10-minute setup)

Cats notice small changes. Reduce friction immediately.

• Confirm the cat is seen at least once (even if from a distance).
• Locate:
  • Food
  • Water
  • Litter supplies
  • Carrier
  • Cleaning supplies (paper towels, enzymatic cleaner)
  • Toys
• Do a quick safety scan:
  • No open windows without secure screens
  • No strings, hair ties, plastic bags left out
  • Plants checked for toxicity (common ones: lilies are a big no)

If the cat hides, do not drag them out. Your goal is calm consistency.

3) Feeding: reliable beats generous

When you’re sitting, avoid “extra” food to win them over.

Best practice

• Feed measured portions, on schedule.
• Keep treats minimal and owner-approved.
• Note appetite changes:
  • Not eating can be urgent for cats.
  • Sudden food obsession can also signal stress.

If the owner free-feeds, follow their system, but still monitor whether food is actually being eaten.

4) Water: the most overlooked sitter task

Cats can be picky about water. Dehydration risk is real.

• Refresh water daily.
• Clean bowls regularly.
• If there’s a fountain, confirm it is working and topped up.
• If the cat drinks unusually little (or suddenly a lot), flag it.

5) Litter box: cleanliness is behavior prevention

Most “bad behavior” during a sit is really “bathroom problem.”

Sitter standard

• Scoop daily (twice daily for some cats or multi-cat homes).
• Top up litter if needed.
• Keep food and water away from the litter area.

Red flags you should treat seriously

• Straining to pee
• Crying in the litter box
• Blood in urine
• Peeing outside the box

Urinary issues can become emergencies fast. Contact the owner immediately if you notice signs.

6) Interaction: consent-based care

Dog instincts (approach, pet, cuddle) can backfire.

How to build trust as a sitter

• Sit quietly for a minute when you arrive.
• Let the cat come to you.
• Offer one hand for a sniff.
• Use slow blinks.
• Keep sessions short and end on a positive note.

Quick body language translation

• Tail up: friendly
• Slow blink: trust
• Ears sideways/back: stressed or overstimulated
• Tail swish: often irritation, not happiness

If the cat is skittish, your “success” metric is low stress, not lots of contact.

7) Play and enrichment: 5–10 minutes is enough

Many cats benefit from a small daily “hunt routine,” especially if the owner is away.

• Wand toy play (2–5 minutes)
• Let the cat “catch” it a few times
• End with a small snack or meal (if allowed)

This can reduce nighttime zoomies and stress behaviors.

8) Home care: what sitters should and shouldn’t change

Cats like the house to feel the same.

Do

• Keep lights consistent (use lamps if evenings are dark)
• Maintain room access as agreed
• Keep noise low
• Follow the owner’s instructions exactly

Don’t

• Rearrange furniture
• Introduce new foods or treats
• Bring new animals into the space
• Force the cat to socialize

9) Health monitoring: cats hide pain

Your biggest value as a sitter is noticing small changes.

Track (even mentally) each visit:

• Eating and drinking
• Litter box output
• Energy and posture
• Grooming (less grooming or over-grooming)
• Hiding (more than usual)

If something shifts suddenly, assume stress or a medical issue. Share observations promptly and clearly.

10) What to message the owner (simple updates that build trust)

Send short, consistent updates. Example:

• “Ate 1 pouch and a few kibbles. Fresh water. Scooped litter. Normal pee/poop. Played with wand toy for 5 minutes. Stayed under the bed but came out to sniff my hand.”

If there’s a concern:

• State what you observed.
• State what you did.
• Ask what the owner wants next.

FAQ for sitters

What if I can’t find the cat?

Stay calm. Check typical hiding spots, then confirm doors/windows are closed. Leave a small amount of food and sit quietly. If still no sighting, contact the owner and ask for usual hiding locations.

Should I clean accidents with regular cleaner?

Use an enzymatic cleaner if available. Regular cleaners can leave scent markers that cause repeat accidents.

Can I take the cat outside for fresh air?

Only if the owner explicitly requests it and the cat is trained for it. Otherwise, don’t improvise.

Sources

• ASPCA: General Cat Care — https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/cat-care/general-cat-care
• ASPCA: Cat Grooming Tips — https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/cat-care/cat-grooming-tips