Is Cat Sitting the best side hustle?

Cat sitting can be a good side hustle for many people, depending on several factors:

1. Demand in the Area: If you live in an area with a high density of cat owners, particularly in urban or suburban settings, there might be a significant demand for cat sitting services, especially during vacation seasons.
2. Passion and Knowledge: If you genuinely enjoy spending time with cats and understand their needs, behaviors, and any potential health issues, this can give you an edge. Cat owners often feel more comfortable leaving their pets with someone knowledgeable and passionate.
3. Flexibility: Cat sitting can be more flexible than some other side hustles. You can often schedule visits around your primary job or other commitments. Additionally, cats typically require less attention than dogs, meaning you might not need multiple daily visits.
4. Low Overhead: Unlike some side hustles or businesses, cat sitting doesn’t require a significant initial investment. You might need some funds for advertising or basic supplies, but overall, the startup costs are minimal.
5. Build Trust: Building trust with pet owners is crucial. If you’re reliable, communicative, and provide good care, word-of-mouth referrals can lead to more business.
6. Additional Services: Offering additional services, like watering plants or collecting mail, can make your service more appealing. Moreover, if you’re skilled in grooming or basic cat healthcare, it can be an added advantage.

However, there are also challenges and considerations:

1. Unpredictability: Animals can be unpredictable. You might encounter cats with behavioral issues or health problems. It’s essential to be prepared for various scenarios.
2. Liability: Accidents can happen. A cat might get injured, become ill under your care, or even escape. It’s worth considering getting insurance or drafting a contract that outlines responsibilities and liabilities.
3. Competition: In some areas, there might be stiff competition from other cat sitters or professional pet care services.
4. Consistent Income: The demand for cat sitting might be seasonal, with peaks during holiday seasons when people travel. It might not provide consistent income throughout the year.

In conclusion, while cat sitting can be a rewarding and profitable side hustle, especially for those who love cats, it’s essential to evaluate local demand, consider potential challenges, and be prepared to build trust with clients.

Where can I find a cat sitter?

Finding a cat sitter can be accomplished through various methods, both online and offline. Here are some specific places to look:

1. Online Platforms and Apps:
   • Rover.com: Primarily known for dog services, Rover also offers cat sitting services. Users can browse profiles, read reviews, and book sitters directly through the platform.
   • Care.com: While it’s mostly known for childcare, Care.com also has listings for pet care providers, including cat sitters.
   • PetBacker: This platform connects pet owners with service providers, including cat sitters.
2. Professional Organizations:
   • Pet Sitters International (PSI): PSI is a professional organization for pet sitters. Their website has a “Pet Sitter Locator” tool where you can search for sitters in your area.
   • National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS): Similar to PSI, NAPPS offers a directory of certified pet sitters.
3. Local Bulletin Boards: Community centers, libraries, vet clinics, and pet supply stores often have bulletin boards where local cat sitters might advertise their services.
4. Vet Clinics: Some vet technicians offer pet sitting services on the side. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations.
5. Word of Mouth: Ask friends, family, neighbors, or coworkers for recommendations. Personal referrals can be one of the most trustworthy ways to find a reliable cat sitter.
6. Social Media: Many communities have local Facebook groups or other social media platforms where members offer or seek various services, including cat sitting.
7. Craigslist or Classified Ads: Local classifieds, either in newspapers or online platforms like Craigslist, might have listings for cat sitters. However, always exercise caution and thoroughly vet any potential sitters found this way.

When considering a cat sitter, it’s crucial to check their references, read reviews if available, and possibly conduct an initial meeting or interview to ensure they’re a good fit for your pet’s needs. If possible, a trial run or short-term sitting before a longer absence can also be beneficial to see how your cat reacts to the sitter and vice versa.

What does a cat sitter cost?

The cost of a cat sitter can vary based on several factors:

1. Location: In urban or high-cost-of-living areas, you might pay more for cat sitting services compared to rural or lower-cost areas.
2. Duration and Frequency: Some sitters charge by the visit, while others might offer daily rates. The length of each visit (e.g., 30 minutes versus an hour) can also affect the cost.
3. Services Included: Basic feeding and litter cleaning might cost less than a service that includes playtime, grooming, administering medications, or other special care.
4. Experience and Professionalism: A seasoned cat sitter with certifications or significant experience might charge more than a casual sitter or someone just starting out.
5. Travel Considerations: If the sitter has to travel a long distance to get to your home, they might charge more to compensate for travel time and expenses.
6. Additional Tasks: If you ask the sitter to perform other tasks, like watering plants, bringing in mail, or caring for additional pets, there might be extra charges.
7. Overnight Stays: Some cat sitters offer overnight services, where they stay at your home. This service is generally more expensive than standard drop-in visits.
8. Special Needs or Requests: Cats that require specific care, such as administering medications, might incur higher charges.
9. Supply Costs: Some sitters might include the cost of any supplies they provide, such as food or litter, in their fees.

As a general ballpark, as of my last update in January 2022:

• In the U.S., a basic cat sitting visit might range from $10 to $30 or more per visit, with rates at the higher end (or even exceeding this range) in major cities or high-cost areas.
• Overnight stays can range from $50 to $100 or more per night, depending on location and services provided.

Always make sure to ask potential sitters about their rates upfront and clarify what is included in the fee. It’s also a good idea to check if there are additional charges for holidays or last-minute bookings.