If a friend ever asks you to pet sit for 1 dog and 4 cats, think it over carefully…
For five days, I’ve been running myself ragged, taking care of a zoo—mine and hers. Her sweet doggy came to my house, but the cats stayed at hers, which means twice-daily visits there, tons of running around, and endless chaos.
All of her cats are on medication, one needs a special diet, and none are being very friendly. (I’ve got scratches on both arms to prove it.) Previously, I have never had any issues with them and it’s pretty weird. I get along well with most animals and have experience with fostering, so I assumed it wouldn’t be tough.
Pets, like people, have their own personalities and some are incredibly moody. I did call the vet, to be on the safe side, but they’re not ill, just unhappy. I feel so badly that I can’t make them more comfortable. They have everything they need, just not their human family.
Oh, and did I mention she’ll be gone for TEN more days? Yup, that’s my luck. 😉
Buy Pheromone spray- it will calm all the cats down and it will make your job much easier.
I never thought of that spray! Thanks for that idea. Do you have a specific brand that works or any? Definitely looking into that now. I see a bunch on amazon.
I cat sit for my daughter when she goes on vacation. But its not so bad as she only lives a few minutes from me. And she returns the favor sitting for my two darlings when I’m away. Nothing like what you are going through. Hang in there.
I’ve watched other pets before, but this experience has been unique, both the large number and the bad attitudes! I’m praying it calms down. Cats are awesome AND awesomely challenging.
Call a kennel
Oh, I wouldn’t dare! That wouldn’t be good for them.
I think I am just taking too long typing and the page isnt always loading…. we emailed about this 🙂 Anyway, hang in there!
Glad to see it’s working ok now. Your comments are always appreciated!
I can agree with the whole calling the kennel idea. That would be awful! I have never pet sat other animals but I have a practical zoo at home and the responsibilities are seriously endless! Side note.. I really love the cat leash, lol!
I always say my house is a zoo, but it’s also a joy. Mixed blessings, right? I’ll tell you how I got into the cat leashes. A friend’s cat ran into the road and was killed in front of her and her kids. They were so determined to never lose a pet again that she became a fanatic for leashes of all animals. I was resistant for a while, thinking mine would fight it, but after a lot of encouragement, mine not only use, they really enjoy it. It will take some time, but if you stick with it, most cats will adapt.