The Professional's How-To Guide for Your Feline's Cat Sitter Appointments

5-Star Rated Cincinnati Cat Sitter’s 5-Step Guide to Earning Your Cat's Trust

Finding a cat sitter in Cincinnati is one thing, but finding a professional for your shy or anxious cat will actually trust can feel like an impossible task. As the founder and sole caregiver at petCINC, I'm Edward Randy Reese, and with over two decades of experience, I've developed a proven process to ensure every feline client and caregiver feels safe and cared for. It’s not magic; it’s a methodical approach built on respect, patience, and understanding.

Here are the five steps I take to build a positive relationship with your cat, ensuring your peace of mind while you're away:

Step 1: Cat Sitting Pre-Visit Homework

When you enroll in my cat sitting services in Cincinnati, OH, and before I even step foot in your home, my work begins. After enrolling with petCINC through our TimeToPet portal, the information you provide about your cat's history, personality quirks, favorite hiding spots, and health needs is invaluable. I genuinely study this information to create a customized and intentional approach tailored to your home & cat's specific temperament. This preparation means I arrive not as a stranger, but as an informed caregiver ready to meet their needs.

Step 2: The First Impression: A Non-Threatening Arrival

A cat's territory is their sanctuary. I enter it with the utmost respect. I avoid loud noises, sudden movements, and direct eye contact, which can be perceived as a threat. I make myself appear smaller by sitting on the floor, creating a non-intimidating presence. I speak in a low, soothing tone, letting your cat know that I am a calm and safe addition to their environment. I speak with a calm smile to the cat and tell them in plain English exactly who I am, and exactly what their care plan is, as it is my belief that cats really enjoy being spoken to and informed and have the potential to understand a lot of vocabulary.

Step 3: Patience and Observation: Letting Your Cat Lead

I never force an interaction. The most crucial part of my process is allowing your cat to dictate the pace. I’ll find a quiet spot in the room and simply be present, allowing them to observe me from a distance. I watch their body language—the flick of a tail, the position of their ears—to understand their comfort level. When they are ready, they will make the first move, and I’ll be there to respond appropriately. This step is crucial for owners looking for the best cat sitter in Cincinnati for shy cats.

Step 4: Creating Positive Connections

Once your cat shows curiosity, I use positive reinforcement to build a bridge of trust. This can be as simple as a slow blink, a gesture that signals friendship and trust in the feline world. As noted by veterinary experts, a slow blink is a powerful signal that you are not a threat. I may also offer a high-value treat or engage them with a wand toy, turning my presence into a positive and rewarding experience.

Step 5: From Trust to Care

The ultimate goal of this process is to provide the essential care your cat needs without causing stress. The trust we build allows me to refresh their food and water, clean their litter box, and even administer medication calmly and efficiently. You’ll receive real-time updates and photos through the TimeToPet app, so you can see for yourself that your beloved pet is not just cared for, but comfortable and content through signs of feline comfort. This patient approach sets my work apart from generic kitty sitting services.

Ready to provide your cat with a calm, stress-free sitting experience?

Visit petcinc.com to schedule your first first in-home cat sitting in Cincinnati appointment.