Frequently asked questions

Do you have flexibility with sit dates?

When I’m not already booked, I’m very flexible and happy to adjust dates to make your planning easier. I truly want to support you however I can.

That said, I do have a full calendar, and I honor every commitment I make. If I’m already scheduled with another Pet Parent, I won’t be able to shift those dates—but if there's room to adjust, I absolutely will, no questions asked.

Thanks for your understanding and for respecting the trust other families place in me, just as I do with yours.

Are you a solo sitter?

I am a solo sitter. I never bring guests into someones home, I don't have any children or pets of my own. I spend most of my time in the home, solo.

How much does it cost?

My pricing is based on the level of care your kitty needs and is structured in three categories (for a single cat). If you have more than one kitty, simply add the cost for each additional cat based on their category:

• Healthy kitty: $50/night/kitty

• Senior or on medication: $100-$150/night/kitty

• Shy, fearful, or aggressive: $150*/night/kitty
  

A one-time $40 travel surcharge applies to homes located more than 60 miles from Mill Valley, CA.

*The higher rate for shy or aggressive kitties reflects the extra time, patience, and expertise required to care for them safely and compassionately. These kitties often need slower introductions, special handling, and more attention to feel secure.

I put a lot of care, time, and energy into every sit. From commuting between homes and shopping for essentials I can’t easily bring, to cleaning thoroughly before I leave—laundering sheets and towels, making beds, vacuuming and tidying—this is a full-service commitment.

I give 110% to every sit because I genuinely love what I do. My rates reflect the value of keeping your kitty safe, relaxed, and happy in their own home—and are still comparable to, or often less than, the cost of boardin

Do you smoke, drink or do drugs?

I don't smoke, drink or do drugs.

Are you interested in kitty sitting to sightsee?

Not at all—my focus is entirely on the kitties. I’ve lived in San Francisco and the North Bay for decades and have done my share of sightseeing. These days, what brings me the most joy is caring for kitties and looking after homes.

I keep a low profile during sits and never leave the home for more than 4 hours at a time—typically just 2 to 3 hours for a walk or a short hike. My priority is always making sure your cats feel safe, cared for, and never alone for too long.

Do you have a vehicle?

I have a Toyota Rav4.

Why do you kitty sit?

I’m genuinely in love with cats—they bring me a kind of joy that feels almost unreasonable! I could watch them interact with the world for hours, and I absolutely love engaging them in play, observing their quirks, and earning their trust. Few things make me happier than seeing a cat eat well, stay hydrated (especially from a running faucet!), or settle in comfortably.

I have a special soft spot for senior cats and feel honored to help them enjoy life to the fullest in their golden years. I treat each kitty as a unique little puzzle: Who are they? What do they like? What makes them feel safe, or curious, or playful?

Sometimes I’m even asked to harness train cats for outdoor adventures—something I truly enjoy. I seem to have a knack for helping them get more comfortable with it.

After a lifetime of work, I’m now retired and able to do what brings me the most joy: spending my days caring for cats. It’s where I feel most relaxed, most fulfilled, and most myself.

What is your cancellation policy?

I completely understand that travel plans—whether for business or pleasure—can change unexpectedly. To reserve your sit dates, I ask for a 25% deposit.

If you need to cancel:
More than 2 weeks before the first scheduled date – I’ll happily refund your deposit.
Less than 2 weeks before the first scheduled date – The deposit is non-refundable, as it’s unlikely I’ll be able to book another sit on such short notice, and your deposit helps cover that gap.

Thank you for your understanding and for respecting the time and preparation that goes into each sit!

Have you ever cancelled a sit?

No, I’ve never had to cancel a sit. I’m deeply reliable, consistently on time, and take my responsibilities very seriously.

That said, I do ask all Pet Parents to have a backup Plan B in place—just in case something truly unforeseen were to happen, such as a medical emergency or natural disaster. While I fully intend to be there as promised, having a Plan B ensures your kitties are never left without care, no matter what.

Would anything make you not take a sit?

Before agreeing to any sit, I always request a video chat. It’s important that we both feel comfortable and aligned. During our conversation, I’ll ask a few thoughtful questions that help me understand your expectations, your cats’ needs, and whether this is the right fit for both of us.

That said, there are certain situations where I will choose not to accept—or may need to leave—a sit. If I arrive and encounter any non-disclosed circumstances that cross my personal boundaries or compromise my ability to provide safe, respectful care, I may ask you to activate your Plan B for your cats and vacate the home.

I take my role seriously and hold myself to high standards. I also believe strongly in mutual trust and transparency—it's what makes a successful and stress-free experience for everyone involved.

I will not be able to take a sit in the following circumstances.

How do you accept payment?

25% deposits are accepted through paypal or venmo and if refunded because of cancellation are sent back the same way.
The remainder is to be paid on the first day of the sit in cash.

What do you do if I forget to leave the remainder of the payment on the first day?

If the remaining balance isn’t provided as agreed, I will kindly request immediate payment via PayPal or Venmo. If the payment isn’t received promptly, I’ll ask you to activate your backup care plan for your kitties and I will leave the home.

In my experience, delayed payments too often lead to non-payment—and I want to avoid that kind of stress and uncertainty. My goal is to focus fully on caring for your pets, not chasing payments. Thank you for understanding and respecting this policy.

Here are a list of questions I ask my Pet Parents

These are informational questions, not necessarily deal breakers.

Any health problems?

Any aggression problems?

Any bad behavior or bad habits I need to watch for?

Do any kitties fight with other kitties in the household?

Do any kitties need to be isolated in a separate room during the sit?

Are any pets separated from other pets?

Are kitties fixed?

Do any kitties spray?

What are the house rules (like kitty not allowed on kitchen counter)

Do kitties go outside?

If not allowed outside, do kitties try to escape to the outside?

Does kitty like/need to be brushed?

Where does kitty like to sleep?

What time does kitty like to sleep and wake up?

When does kitty eat?

Do you give treats?

What are kitties favorite toys or play?

How is the neighborhood? Quiet?

Any house rules for me?

Do you have any indoor cameras?

How often do you want check-ins?

What are your cross streets?

What time are you leaving?

What time are you returning?

I will not accept a sit that has indoor cameras.

I completely understand that inviting someone into your home can feel vulnerable, and it's natural to want to protect your space and your belongings. Your trust is something I take very seriously.

As a minimalist, I bring only what I need, and I’m not interested in exploring beyond what my responsibilities require. I approach each sit with the utmost respect and professionalism, and I’m honored every time a homeowner entrusts me with their pets and property.

Just as I respect your home, I ask that you respect my privacy as well. I need to feel at ease in the space I’m caring for, and that means no active indoor surveillance. If I discover indoor cameras in use, I will immediately contact you to implement your Plan B and will leave the property. This is a firm policy.

Outdoor/external cameras are completely acceptable.

• If a home has mold.

• If the kitty is not spayed or neutered.

• If any of the kitties spray.

• If a scared or aggressive kitty has not had their nails trimmed. This is a safety issue if I need to evacuate the kitty due to illness, fire, earthquake, or other unforeseen situation.

• If kitties in the household need to be kept separate from each other.

• If kitties are to be kept isolated in a single room.

• If kitties are matted or otherwise neglected (tho I will take them to the groomers if necessary.)