• This post contains affiliate links. Read more here.
• Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.

Finding the right caregiver for your senior cat can feel overwhelming. Older cats need a gentle approach, and many require specialized care. The best sitter for your senior cat will be familiar with their unique needs. That might include managing mobility issues or sensory decline, following a specific dietary plan, or simply maintaining a peaceful presence.

Fortunately, it’s entirely possible to find reliable care for your senior cat—if you know what to look for. The ideal sitter will have experience caring for older cats, be equipped to handle emergencies, recognize subtle signs of illness, and provide regular updates to keep you in the loop. If your situation calls for it, they’ll be proficient in administering medication as well.

In this guide, we’ll explore the different options available for senior cat care. We’ll also share insights from two veterinarians: Dr. Aimee Warner, resident veterinarian at Waggel, and Dr. Bethany Hsia, co-founder of CodaPet. Here are the types of sitters you’ll encounter, where to find them, and how to choose the best fit for your senior cat.

Drop-Ins Vs House Sitting Vs. Boarding for a Senior Cat

There are three main types of senior cat care, each with its own pros and cons. The right choice really depends on your senior cat’s personality and specific needs.

	Drop-in	House sitting	Vet boarding
Good for	Healthy, independent senior cats	Senior cats with mild health conditions	Senior cats with more serious or unstable health conditions
Bad for	Cats with health issues; cats who are distressed by unpredictable visitors	Extremely shy senior cats who are uncomfortable with long-term house guests	Anxious senior cats who don’t need close veterinary monitoring
Services available	Sitters usually take 30-60 minutes to freshen food and water bowls, clean litter boxes, give meds, and play with your cat	Continuous care in the comfort of your home; Sometimes, house-sitters take on extra house tasks like collecting mail, taking out trash, and cleaning.	24/7 supervision (depending on the facility); professional medical care
Costs ($, $$, or $$$)	$ (affordable)	$$$ (can be expensive)	$$ (moderate)

Drop-in visits

Drop-in visits involve a pet sitter coming to your home once or twice a day to feed your cat, clean the litter box, give medication if necessary, and provide some temporary companionship.

For senior cats who are healthy and self-sufficient, drop-in visits are usually recommended. This arrangement lets cats stay in their own home, which is ideal for seniors easily rattled by disruption to their routine.

However, for many senior cats, having a stranger come over unexpectedly can be too stressful. If your cat tends to react negatively to sudden visitors, drop-ins might not be the best fit. Additionally, if your cat needs more frequent interaction or has special needs, a daily drop-in might not suffice.

If you go this route for your senior cat, Dr. Warner says that longer, less frequent visits are less stressful than shorter, more frequent visits.

House sitting

House sitting involves a caretaker staying in your home, which helps your cat maintain their routine and minimizes stress—crucial for cats with chronic health conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, or hyperthyroidism.

Dr. Hsia considers house-sitting a good option for cats who enjoy human companionship or those who become distressed when left alone for long periods. She also says it’s the preferred option for senior cats with minor medical issues who need more involved care. “A qualified cat sitter can adhere to medication schedules, monitor food and water intake, and report back to the owner or contact the vet if they observe changes in symptoms,” says Dr. Hsia.

However, house-sitting won’t suit all senior cats. If your pet is uncomfortable with new people or exhibits stress when visitors are present, a live-in sitter could be challenging. And in cases where extensive medical care is needed (e.g., intravenous fluids, close monitoring, etc.), veterinary boarding may be more appropriate.

Vet boarding

Boarding your senior cat at a veterinary clinic might make sense if they have more serious health issues. Often, this option includes access to veterinary staff who can address specific health needs and closely monitor cats with unstable conditions.

That said, the clinical setting tends to be stressful for older cats, especially those who are sensitive to change or the presence of other animals. If your cat is shy or anxious, in-home care might be the better option. Ultimately, you’ll want to weigh your cat’s medical requirements against their personality.

If you’re leaning towards vet boarding for health reasons, consider whether the facility offers 24-hour supervision. It’s also worth noting that some facilities provide video streaming, so you can check in on your senior cat from afar.

Where To Look for a Sitter for a Senior Cat

Once you’ve decided what kind of care you’d like, you can begin to look for a cat sitter. Here are some good places to start your search.

• Pet-sitting platforms: App-based platforms like Rover offer background-checked sitters with profiles, booking, and payment options.
• Meowtel: Focuses exclusively on cat care. Sitters are vetted and insured.
• TrustedHousesitters: Links pet owners with sitters who look after cats in return for accommodation.
• National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) and Pet Sitters International (PSI): These organizations maintain directories of qualified sitters who go through certification courses to enhance their skills.
• Ask your veterinarian: they will often have trusted staff who pet-sit on the side.
• Seek referrals from friends, family, or neighborhood community sites, like NextDoor.

How To Vet Sitters for a Senior Cat

Finding the right sitter for your senior cat requires a little extra effort, but it’s worth it. Here’s how to narrow down your pool of candidates.

Filter search results

As you browse sitter profiles on various apps, take advantage of filters to highlight those who can meet your cat’s specific needs. You may want to prioritize sitters who can give medication or injections, those with experience caring for older cats, or those available for overnight care.

Read reviews for relevant experiences

You can also check reviews to see how sitters have handled situations similar to your own. For instance, if your cat requires insulin shots, prioritize sitters who have received positive feedback for managing diabetic pets. Similarly, if your cat has a strict diet, find sitters whose reviews mention their dedication to following meal plans.

Assess emergency preparedness

Sitters should have a reliable way to get your cat to a vet if necessary. Ask potential caretakers if they have a car or access to cat-friendly public transport. You can also inquire about their emergency response plan.

Meetings and Trial Runs for a Senior Cat

Scheduling a low-stakes meet-and-greet with a potential sitter is always a good idea. This lets you observe how the sitter interacts with your pet and determine if they have the skills necessary to meet your cat’s level of care. Ideally, the sitter will demonstrate a calm, gentle temperament that reassures your senior cat.

Use this opportunity to ask the sitter about their experience with senior pets. Warner suggests discussing how they would handle issues like missed medication, a cat not eating, or litter box issues. “A good sitter will be at ease with noticing subtle signs of illness and be proactive in communication,” she notes.

Warner also recommends conducting a handoff trial where you ask the sitter to perform tasks like giving medication or feeding under your supervision. This lets you evaluate their comfort level and technique.

Setting Expectations

Transparency is crucial during the hiring process. Always clearly communicate your cat’s unique needs and challenges upfront—even if they seem like a lot.

“The most important thing is continuity of care,” emphasizes Dr. Warner. To ensure everyone is on the same page regarding your senior cat’s care, it helps to spell out exactly what they need. Dr. Warner suggests leaving written notes detailing things like:

• Feeding schedules: Write down your cat’s meal schedule, portion size, and any pertinent feeding instructions (such as heating up wet food).
• Medication management: If applicable, make sure the sitter is comfortable giving medications, whether they’re pills or liquids. Provide clear instructions if needed.
• Any unique needs: Share any mobility issues, sensory changes, anxiety issues, or other age-related concerns. Provide clear instructions on how to handle these challenges.

• This post contains affiliate links. Read more here.
• Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.

When life pulls you away from home, finding dependable cat care is a top priority. Whether you’re traveling for work, enjoying a vacation, or facing unexpected obligations, a reliable cat sitter makes sure your cat is well-fed, has a clean litter box, and gets all the affection and playtime they need. They may also handle grooming or medications, depending on your cat’s needs.

There are a lot of good cat sitters out there—but how do you know who to trust? And what type of care makes the most sense for your situation?

This guide will help you navigate the options, identify qualified caregivers, and ask the right questions. Our goal is to connect you with a trustworthy cat sitter who cares for your pet as deeply as you do.

What Kind of Cat Sitter Do I Need?

You’ll run into two main types of cat care: house sitting, where the sitter stays at your home, and drop-in visits, where the sitter comes by at scheduled times. It’s worth noting that devices like automatic feeders, water fountains, and self-cleaning litter boxes can help bridge the gap between drop-ins. However, these tools should never replace a sitter.

Service	Drop-In Visit	House Sitting
Definition	Pet sitter visits your home once or twice a day to check on your cat	Pet sitter stays overnight in your home to care for your cat
Standard services	Feeding, litter box maintenance, medication administration if necessary, and brief playtime	All drop-in services plus continuous companionship and monitoring
Add-ons	For an extra fee, some sitters will extend their stay; others may provide services like grooming or baths	Some house-sitters also tend to household tasks, such as collecting mail, watering plants, and light cleaning
Cost	More affordable	Usually more expensive
Best for	Healthy, independent cats who are comfortable being alone and cats who prefer limited contact with unfamiliar people	Senior cats, kittens, and cats with health issues who need closer monitoring
Avoid for	Cats who need more interaction or medical attention	Shy cats who are stressed by the presence of a new person in their home

Can I board my cat?

In some circumstances, boarding a cat can be a safe option, particularly for senior cats and kitties with serious medical conditions. However, most cats prefer the familiarity of home and will find a boarding facility too stressful. Unless your cat is exceedingly social or needs round-the-clock care, in-home sitting is usually preferred.

When boarding is necessary, Dr. Victoria Carmella, veterinary advisor for Pet Honesty, recommends choosing a cat-specific facility or one that has a quiet, dedicated area just for cats.

How To Find a Cat Sitter

Finding the right cat sitter doesn’t have to be stressful—there are plenty of resources available. Start by exploring platforms like Rover and Meowtel, which let you browse profiles, read reviews, and filter your search for specific services like overnight care or medication administration. These platforms conduct background checks and offer insurance for peace of mind. Sites like Care.com and TrustedHousesitters are also worth visiting.

Don’t forget to tap into your local community, too. You can ask friends and family for recommendations, or check with neighbors on community sites like NextDoor. Your veterinarian is another great resource. Many employ staff who offer pet-sitting services.

Finally, you can check professional organizations like the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) and Pet Sitters International (PSI). These groups list certified members who’ve undergone training and background checks.

Qualifications, Licensing, and Background Checks

While professional qualifications aren’t necessary for every situation, they can offer a degree of assurance for pet parents. Look for credentials such as the NAPPS Certification from the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters and the Certified Professional Pet Sitter (CPPS) designation from Pet Sitters International (PSI). These certifications demonstrate that the sitter has met industry standards and is committed to ongoing education in cat care.

Certifications in pet CPR and first aid are major bonuses, especially for cats with medical conditions. A background check is another good idea, particularly with sitters entering your home. Additionally, Dr. Carmella says to make sure pet sitters are insured and bonded.

Provider	Qualifications
Drop-in visits to your home	Experience in cat care Insured & bonded Bonuses: NAPPS or CPPS certification, CPR & First Aid
House sitting in your home	Experience in cat care Insured & bonded Bonuses: NAPPS or CPPS certification, CPR & First Aid
Cat boarding

Reading Reviews Strategically

As you sift through sitter profiles, look carefully at the reviews—they contain valuable insights into whether a sitter aligns with your needs. Here’s what to zero in on.

1. Look for shared philosophies on cat care

Pay attention to reviews highlighting the sitter’s understanding of feline behavior and care. Check for comments that demonstrate the sitter’s grasp of pet consent, boundaries, proper handling techniques, and feline body language. Look for mentions of using positive reinforcement and providing feline enrichment or play.

2. Look for similar situations

It helps to find reviews that reflect your specific needs. For example, consider whether you need care for an extended trip or daily drop-ins with playtime. Perhaps your cat has a fiddly feeding routine or needs regular medications or injections. Reviews that highlight the sitter’s experience with similar situations can offer reassurance.

3. Look for cats similar to yours

Focus on reviews by people with pets similar to yours—whether you have a high-energy kitten, a senior cat needing daily medications, or a cat prone to anxiety. This helps ensure the sitter is well-equipped to meet your cat’s unique needs.

4. Look for additional certifications

Check if the sitter has any relevant certifications, such as the Certified Professional Pet Sitters (CPPS) designation. Additional health certifications, like pet CPR, are a bonus. While these credentials aren’t a requirement to good care, they do show a commitment to pet care knowledge and professionalism.

Meetings and Trial Runs

Setting up a meet-and-greet in your home is a key part of the hiring process. This initial encounter allows both you and the sitter to gauge if you’re a good fit.

During the meeting, pay close attention to how the sitter interacts with your cat. Are they respectful of your cat’s space? Or do they seem unaware of your cat’s comfort? This is your chance to observe their knowledge of feline behavior and care. A good sitter should be engaging, open to questions, and show genuine interest in your pet’s well-being.

Questions to ask

Don’t hesitate to ask questions during the interview process. A responsible sitter will be happy to answer them.

Some areas to inquire about include:

• Professional experience. How much experience do you have with cat sitting? Have you cared for special needs cats? Are you able to give medicine or accommodate health issues? Do you recognize signs of feline stress or illness?
• The sitter’s routine. What will a typical visit look like? Do you include services like feeding, litter box cleaning, and playtime?
• Communication methods. How will you update me about my cat? Will you send photos or messages?
• Emergency preparedness. What would you do in a medical emergency? Are you comfortable taking my cat to the vet if needed? Do you have a backup plan in case you can’t make it?
• Insurance. Are you insured or bonded?
• References & certifications. Can you provide references from previous clients? Do you have any relevant training or professional certifications?

Red & green flags

As you vet potential sitters, watch for signs they’re a dependable hire. Look for green flags like relevant experience, glowing references, and any professional certifications. During your first meeting, pay attention to how attentive they are to your cat’s specific needs. “A great pet sitter will ask thoughtful questions about your cat’s routine, preferences, and care needs,” notes Dr. Carmella.

On the flip side, if a sitter seems disinterested in learning about your cat’s care or provides vague answers about their experience, Carmella says it’s a sign to look elsewhere. Lack of communication during the hiring process and a one-size-fits-all approach are also warning signs that they may not be the right fit.

Setting Expectations

Providing your sitter with detailed information about your cat’s care ensures everyone is on the same page. Below are key points to include when writing care instructions for your cat.

Writing care instructions for your cat

Start by providing a detailed list of your cat’s needs. You might include:

• Feeding guidelines. Specify how much and when to feed your cat. Include any special instructions, such as heating up wet food.
• Litter box care. Show your sitter where the litter box and supplies are located. Explain how often it should be cleaned. If you use an automatic litter box, leave detailed maintenance instructions.
• Medication needs. if your cat takes any meds, outline the dosage, timing, and how it should be given.
• Personal preferences. Share your cat’s favorite toys and activities, and mention any quirks when it comes to handling, sleeping arrangements, or interaction preferences.

Writing care instructions for the house

Make things easy for your sitter by writing down where to find supplies like food, litter, and cleaning materials. If a sitter needs access to your home, provide a key or door code in advance, along with clear instructions for entry. Remember, cat sitting often involves light housekeeping tasks like collecting mail, watering plants, or turning on lights to give your home a lived-in feel. If your sitter offers these services, write down any necessary details they’ll need.

Establishing communication preferences

Set up a communication plan that works for you. Decide how often you’d like updates and whether you prefer texts, photos, or both.

Don’t forget to share important contact information, such as veterinarian details, emergency numbers, and your own contact info for any questions that may arise.

Establishing visit expectations

Finally, specify how many visits per day you need, how long each visit should last, and any specific activities you’d like your sitter to engage in with your cat. This helps your cat get the attention and care they deserve.