The Ultimate Cat Sitter Checklist

In addition to our comprehensive pet sitter checklist, this cat-specific guide helps ensure every caregiver is fully prepared for a smooth, stress-free stay—whether it’s for an upcoming sit or future planning. Tailor these questions to your cat’s unique personality, your home’s layout, and any special considerations that will help your sitter settle in confidently.

an older person gently holding and cuddling a calm Maine Coon kitten

Complete Your Welcome Guide

Start preparing as soon as your sitter is confirmed. Create and share a clear, organized welcome guide through your FurPetVo membership dashboard. This document should outline expectations and essential information—including:

  • Emergency plan, contact details, and key documents
  • House rules, daily routines, and household logistics
  • Your cat’s care schedule, temperament, and health needs
  • A detailed checklist of supplies (pet and household)

Share the guide with your sitter at least one week before their arrival. This gives them time to ask questions—and gives you space to refine or expand the list as needed.

Cat Routine and Care Checklist

Food, Treats, and Litter Trays

  • Does your cat eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner—or follow another feeding schedule?
  • What time do they eat each day?
  • How much food should be served per meal?
  • Where is their food stored—and where is their bowl kept?
  • Do they use a water bowl or fountain? How often should the water be refreshed?
  • Where are treats stored—and how many are allowed daily?
  • Are any human foods permitted? Which ones are strictly off-limits?
  • Is there anything else about feeding your sitter should know (e.g., warming food, mixing supplements)?
  • How often should the litter box be scooped? Does the entire tray need cleaning—and how should used litter be disposed of?

Exercise & Playtime

  • Is your cat indoor-only, outdoor-accessible, or fully outdoor?
  • If indoor, do they go on supervised walks? Are they harness-trained?
  • If walked, how long should each walk last?
  • How much interactive playtime do they enjoy each day?
  • How often do they nap—and do they need quiet, alone time during the day?
  • If outdoor, what times do they typically go out—and when do they usually return home?

Your Cat’s Personality

  • Do they have any behavioral quirks or sensitivities?
  • What helps calm them when stressed?
  • How do they interact with other pets—or unfamiliar animals?
  • If they go outside, are they likely to bring home small prey?
  • What are their favorite toys or activities?
  • Do they respond to music—or show preferences for certain sounds?
  • Are there things they dislike (e.g., loud noises, vacuum cleaners, specific scents)?
  • Are there objects or areas in the home that trigger anxiety or unwanted behavior?
  • How do they react to new people—especially children or guests?
  • Which rooms or furniture are they allowed to access? (e.g., beds, couches, countertops)
  • When—and for how long—are they permitted outdoors?
  • Where do they like to hide when feeling shy or overwhelmed?

Health, Well-being, and Medical Records

  • Are any vet visits, grooming appointments, or wellness checks scheduled during the sit?
  • Are vaccination records up to date?
  • Do you have copies of all relevant medical records (e.g., allergies, chronic conditions, past procedures)?
  • Is your cat microchipped? If so, confirm the registered contact info is current.
  • Have you uploaded a recent, clear photo of your cat to furpetvo.com—showing markings, color, and distinguishing features?
  • Provide your contact details—and at least one reliable backup contact in case you’re unreachable.
  • Include your veterinarian’s name, phone number, and address.
  • Share pet insurance details—and let your vet know a FurPetVo sitter will be caring for your cat while you’re away.
  • Leave payment instructions with your vet so your sitter won’t need to cover emergency costs upfront.
  • Does your cat take medication? If yes: what’s the reason, dosage, frequency, and method of administration?

House Rules Checklist

Emergencies

  • List your preferred emergency vet—including directions and after-hours contact info.
  • Provide your own emergency contact details—and at least one local neighbor or relative who can assist.
  • Leave a spare set of house keys with that trusted contact—and confirm your sitter knows where to retrieve them.
  • Outline your plan if your cat goes missing or has an accident (e.g., where to search, how to alert neighbors).
  • Describe any home security systems—how to arm/disarm, alarm codes, and parking instructions.
  • Clarify how emergency expenses (like vet bills) will be reimbursed.

Day-to-Day House Knowledge

  • When are trash and recycling bins collected—and how is food waste handled?
  • Where is the Wi-Fi router located—and what’s the password?
  • Will your sitter need to use any vehicles? If so, where are keys kept—and what are usage guidelines?
  • How will routine essentials (litter, food, cleaning supplies) be restocked—and who covers the cost?
  • Where is the main electrical panel—and how do you reset a tripped breaker?
  • Include simple instructions for using major appliances—and note where manuals are stored.
  • Are there extra keys hidden or stored elsewhere? Where?
  • Are there any “house quirks” to flag—e.g., a squeaky floorboard, a door that sticks, or a light switch that controls multiple fixtures?
  • What’s the plant watering schedule—and do any require special care (e.g., misting, filtered water, low light)?
  • Do they need to maintain a swimming pool or hot tub?
  • How often would you like updates? Daily texts, photos, or just a check-in at the end of the sit?
  • Are visitors allowed during the sit—and under what conditions?
  • What are your expectations for the final day? (e.g., deep clean, laundry, key return method)
two playful Sphynx cats interacting with a feather teaser wand on a sunlit desk

Prepare Your Cat for Their Sitter

Cats thrive on routine and can feel anxious when their environment changes—even with a kind, experienced caregiver. Since they’re highly sensitive to new people and energy, start easing the transition well in advance. Try these gentle, proactive steps:

  • Invite friends or family over regularly to help your cat grow comfortable with visitors.
  • Arrange a relaxed, low-pressure meet-and-greet with your FurPetVo sitter before the sit begins.
  • Repeat short, positive visits to build familiarity and trust.
  • Schedule deworming and flea prevention treatments ahead of time.
  • Book a grooming session if needed—claw trims, brushing, or de-matting can boost comfort and confidence.
  • Double-check vaccinations and microchip registration are current.
  • Plug in a calming pheromone diffuser a few days before the sit starts.
  • Leave an unwashed t-shirt or blanket with your scent in their favorite sleeping spot.
  • Keep your departure calm and matter-of-fact—no prolonged goodbyes or emotional cues that may heighten stress.