3. Specialized Care and Medication

To get cat clients for your pet sitting business, you need to show that you can handle more than just feeding and litter box duties—especially if you want to attract owners of cats with special medical needs. Many cat owners struggle to find a sitter who is comfortable administering medication, so having this skill can make you stand out.

Some common conditions that require medication in cats include:

• Respiratory Issues – Some cats with asthma or other breathing problems require inhalers to manage their condition.
• Eye Conditions – Eye infections, ulcers, or chronic conditions like glaucoma may require eye drops or eye creams.
• Diabetes – Diabetic cats often need insulin injections given at specific times each day.
• Hyperthyroidism – This common condition in older cats is treated with oral medication, transdermal gel, or sometimes injections.
• Anxiety or Behavioral Issues – Some cats require anti-anxiety medications, either in pill or liquid form, to manage stress-related behaviors.
• Arthritis and Pain Management – Older cats with joint issues may take pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications.
• Urinary and Kidney Issues – Cats prone to UTIs or kidney disease may need prescription medications or supplements to support their health.
• Heart Disease – Some cats with heart conditions require daily medications to manage their symptoms and prevent complications.
• Parasite Prevention – Medications for flea, tick, and worm prevention come in topical, oral, or injectable forms.

If you want to get cat clients for your pet sitting business, developing experience with administering pills, injections, and other treatments is essential.

Whether you already have experience or are willing to learn, showing patience and confidence in handling medical care can set you apart as a reliable and knowledgeable pet sitter.

4. Understanding Feline Behavior

If you want to get cat clients for your pet sitting business, understanding feline behavior is crucial. Not all cats are friendly or eager to meet new people—some may hide for the entire visit, while others may hiss or swat. Knowing how to interact with different personalities—whether a shy cat, an affectionate one, or an aggressive one—helps build trust with both the cat and the owner.

For shy cats, patience is essential. Give them space and allow them to approach on their own terms. Avoid direct eye contact, as it can feel intimidating, and instead, offer slow blinks to signal that you mean no harm. Speaking in a calm, gentle voice can help reassure them. Sitting at their level rather than towering over them can make you seem less threatening. Offering treats or using a toy can help build positive associations and encourage interaction.

Cat owners will appreciate your ability to respect boundaries, which can help you get cat clients for your pet sitting business who have nervous or timid cats.

Aggressive cats require careful handling and awareness of body language. Avoid forcing contact if they are hissing, swatting, or growling. Sudden movements or loud noises can escalate their stress, so staying calm and predictable is key. If the cat is reactive, using a wand toy can allow them to release energy without direct contact. Keeping a consistent routine for feeding, playtime, and litter box maintenance can help them feel more secure. In some cases, pheromone diffusers or calming sprays can create a more relaxed environment.

Knowing how to handle these situations with confidence can make cat owners trust you and get cat clients for your pet sitting business who need someone experienced with challenging feline personalities.

5. Companionship for Their Cat

If you want to get cat clients for your pet sitting business, it’s important to show owners that you do more than just feed their cat and leave. While cats are often seen as independent, many are social and crave attention (I can relate!). Cat owners want to know their pet will receive love, engagement, and companionship while they’re away. Taking the time to play, offer gentle affection, or simply sit nearby can make a big difference in a cat’s comfort.

Every cat has different preferences for interaction. Some may enjoy lap time and belly rubs, while others prefer chin scratches or quiet companionship. Observing their body language and respecting their boundaries helps build trust. Playtime with wand toys, laser pointers, or even a crinkled ball can provide mental stimulation and exercise.

Demonstrating that you understand these needs can help you get cat clients for your pet sitting business who value a sitter that truly connects with their pet.

Sending pictures or short videos of cuddle sessions, playtime, or a cat lounging peacefully reassures owners that their pet is happy and cared for. Regular updates ease their worries and strengthen your relationship with them.

Showing that you genuinely enjoy spending time with their cat helps set you apart as a sitter who truly cares—making it even easier to get cat clients for your pet sitting business through word-of-mouth recommendations and glowing reviews.

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Handling Common Challenges with Cat Clients

1. Dealing with Shy or Hiding Cats

Some cats may hide the entire time you’re there. That’s okay! Instead of trying to force interaction, make your presence as non-threatening as possible. Sit quietly and let them come to you when they’re ready.

2. Aggressive or Territorial Cats

If a cat hisses, swats, or bites, avoid sudden movements and respect their space. Use treats and a gentle voice to gain their trust.

3. Cats That Won’t Eat

Some cats may stop eating due to stress. Try warming their food slightly or offering a different type of food (with owner permission). If they refuse food for over 24 hours, notify the owner.

Building Trust with Cat Owners

Once you get cat clients for your pet sitting business, your next goal is to turn them into repeat customers. Building strong relationships with cat owners will help ensure they trust you with their pet’s care again and again. Here’s how to establish that trust:

1. Provide Daily Updates

Most cat owners appreciate daily updates, especially when they’re away for an extended period. Keeping them informed reassures them that their cat is in good hands and strengthens your reputation. Send:

• Photos and videos of their cat eating, playing, or lounging
• A brief text update on how their cat is doing
• Any important observations (e.g., if the cat isn’t eating or using the litter box as usual)

Frequent communication helps you get cat clients for your pet sitting business who value reliability and attentiveness.

2. Go the Extra Mile

Small gestures can make a big difference. Consider:

• Leaving the house cleaner than you found it (sweeping up litter, tidying food bowls)
• Bringing in mail or watering plants
• Spending extra time playing with or comforting anxious cats

By going above and beyond, you provide excellent care and increase your chances of getting glowing referrals, which can help you get cat clients for your pet sitting business through word-of-mouth.

3. Keep a Cat Care Log

For long-term clients, consider keeping a small notebook or digital log with notes on their cat’s preferences, quirks, and health updates. This shows attention to detail and helps you provide personalized care.

A physical notebook can be left in the home, where you jot down daily updates about eating habits, litter box use, energy levels, and any changes in behavior. This allows owners to see how their cat was doing while they were away.

A shared digital note (using apps like Google Docs or Notes on iPhone) is another great option. You can update it in real-time, and the owner can check in whenever they’d like. This is especially helpful for cats with medical needs, as you can log medication times and any symptoms you notice. Keeping detailed records helps build trust and makes it easier to get cat clients for your pet sitting business who value thorough and professional care.

Final Thoughts

Getting cat owner clients takes patience, marketing, and a deep understanding of feline behavior. By positioning yourself as a cat specialist, offering excellent service, and building trust with owners, you can create a steady stream of loyal cat-sitting clients.

Whether you’re just starting or looking to expand your client base, following these tips will help you attract and retain cat owners who value a sitter who truly understands their feline friends. Happy cat sitting!