The Ultimate Guide To Writing Useful Cat Sitter Instructions

Leaving your cat at home with a sitter can feel stressful, especially when you're trying to make sure you've written down everything they need to know. Sometimes you start with a simple list of feeding times and favourite toys, but before you realise it, you've written a ten-page novel about your cat's quirks, preferences, and daily routines. While your intentions are good, that much information can actually overwhelm a sitter.

The real challenge is figuring out what details are the most important. What will genuinely help your cat sitter keep your feline comfortable, safe, and happy? And what details can be skipped because they won't really impact your cat's day-to-day care?

Creating a concise, clear, and useful guide is key, one that gives your sitter confidence without drowning them in unnecessary detail.

Daily routine matters most

Cats are creatures of habit, and most thrive on consistency. That's why the backbone of your cat sitter instructions should be your cat's daily routine. Write down the times your cat eats, how much food to give, and whether meals are wet, dry, or a combination of both. If you add extras like treats, supplements, or medications, note the correct amount and timing, too.

Water is another simple but vital detail. Let your sitter know how often bowls should be changed and where your cat prefers to drink. Some cats are fussy and will only drink from a fountain or a certain dish. Including this in your notes will prevent dehydration, especially during hot Singapore days.

Feeding and special diets

If your cat has dietary needs, spell them out clearly. For instance, if your cat is allergic to chicken or requires grain-free food, this should be highlighted. You may even want to leave a little "safe" and "not safe" list for quick reference. This helps avoid any accidents and makes your sitter feel more confident.

Professional cat sitters in Singapore often look after multiple cats for different clients, so being precise ensures no mix-ups happen. Even if it feels obvious to you, don't assume your sitter knows which brand or flavour your cat eats.

Health and safety instructions

Health is one area where detail is crucial. Provide a list of medications (if any), including instructions on dosage and how to administer them. If your cat is difficult when it comes to pills or syringes, let your sitter know the best approach, whether that's hiding medication in food or wrapping them gently in a towel.

Don't forget emergency information. Include your vet's name, address, and phone number, along with a nearby emergency vet clinic. Write down your own contact details and a backup contact, just in case you're unreachable. Having these details at hand helps the sitter react quickly if your cat has an unexpected health issue.

Litter box habits

Cats can be very particular about their litter boxes. Let your sitter know how often to scoop, where the cleaning supplies are kept, and if your cat prefers the box freshly topped up with litter. If your cat has multiple litter boxes, label them and note how often each one needs cleaning.

It's also worth mentioning what's "normal" for your cat in terms of toileting habits. If your cat sometimes scratches the wall instead of covering, or tends to leave larger clumps, this will reassure the sitter that nothing is wrong. Conversely, if your cat suddenly changes their habits, your sitter will know when to raise the alarm.

Behaviour and personality

Not every cat enjoys human company the same way. Some are lap-seekers who demand cuddles every evening, while others prefer to keep their distance. Letting your sitter know your cat's personality helps them avoid misunderstandings.

If your cat hides from strangers, note their favourite hiding spots so the sitter doesn't panic thinking they've gone missing. On the other hand, if your cat tends to dash out the door, include a reminder to be extra careful when entering or leaving. These small tips can make a big difference in keeping your cat safe and stress-free.

Playtime and enrichment

Cats need stimulation as much as care. Explain what toys your cat enjoys and how long they usually play before losing interest. If your cat loves a feather wand, describe the game briefly. If they prefer puzzle feeders, show the sitter how to use them.

Mention any household rules, too, such as not allowing your cat in the kitchen or keeping certain rooms off-limits. These instructions prevent your sitter from accidentally encouraging behaviours you've worked hard to discourage. They also fall neatly under the do's and don'ts every sitter follows.

Household details that help

Don't forget to include a few household notes that will make the sitter's life easier. For example, where you keep the hoover for cleaning up litter scatter, or which cupboards are cat-proofed. Some cats have a knack for opening doors or cupboards, so if that's the case, mention it.

You may also want to write down instructions about air-conditioning or fans, especially if your cat isn't used to very warm conditions. Keeping the environment safe and comfortable will help your cat feel at ease while you're away.

Keep it simple and accessible

The key to a good set of instructions is clarity. Use bullet points where possible and keep sentences short. Instead of writing paragraphs about how your cat meows at dinner time, a simple "meows loudly when hungry – feed at 7pm" will do the job.

If you feel the need to include more detail, create a "main notes" sheet and an optional "extra info" sheet. That way, the sitter has all the essentials at their fingertips, but they can still refer to extra notes if they'd like more context.

Some pet owners even create a small folder or binder that sits on the counter. This keeps instructions tidy, and you can slot in food guides, vet details, and even photos of your cat's medication. Professional cat sitters often appreciate this kind of organisation, as it makes their job smoother and ensures nothing important is overlooked.

Communication while you're away

It's reassuring to know your cat is fine while you're not at home. Include in your notes how often you'd like updates, and whether you prefer texts, WhatsApp messages, or photos. Some owners like daily photos, while others are happy with a quick message every couple of days.

Clear communication reduces stress for both you and your sitter. It also helps avoid unnecessary worry, since you'll know exactly what to expect.

Conclusion

Writing cat sitter instructions doesn't have to be complicated or overwhelming. The best notes are those that strike a balance between thoroughness and simplicity. Focus on the essentials: feeding, health, litter box care, safety, and personality. Add a few household notes, keep everything neat, and you'll set your sitter up for success.

At Cat Paradise Hotel, we know how important it is to feel confident about your cat's care. That's why we not only provide trusted cat boarding but also offer reliable cat sitting services. Whether you're away for a few days or longer, our team is here to make sure your feline feels safe, loved, and right at home.