If you’ve booked a sitter for your cat while you’re away, you’ve already made a choice that’s better for your cat’s wellbeing. Now it’s all about setting things up so they’re as comfortable and relaxed as possible—while also giving your sitter everything they need to provide great care.
This guide covers what to prepare, what to share, and what to expect—so you can travel worry-free, knowing your cat is in good hands.
A well-prepared sitter means a calmer cat
Cats love routine. They notice small changes—and they often don’t like them. One of the best ways to keep your cat grounded during your absence is to help your sitter maintain that familiar rhythm. According to a study published in Applied Animal Behaviour Science, consistent routines are directly linked to reduced stress in domestic cats, especially when owners are away.¹
That doesn’t just mean food and water. It includes how your cat is greeted, when they’re played with, where they prefer to nap, and even the tone of voice they’re used to hearing.
The more context you give your sitter, the more confident and calm your cat will feel.
What to prepare before you leave
Start with the essentials. Your sitter will need access to your cat’s food, feeding instructions, litter setup, and cleaning supplies. It’s a good idea to place everything in one clearly labelled area so it’s easy to find.
Write up a care note that includes feeding times, portion sizes, treats (yes or no?), and any medications your cat might need. If your cat has dietary quirks—like only drinking from a running fountain or needing their food microwaved for 8 seconds—write that down too. It matters.
The same goes for your litter box setup. Let your sitter know how often you scoop, where to dispose of waste, and if your cat has any particular habits—some cats insist on a freshly scooped box before they use it.
Beyond food and litter, include a short section on your cat’s personality. Are they shy? Curious? Likely to hide for the first few days? Do they scratch when overstimulated or demand cuddles at a specific hour? These details help sitters adapt their approach respectfully and avoid stressing your cat.
Include safety and emergency details
Even with the best planning, unexpected things can happen. Make sure your sitter has:
- Your preferred vet’s contact details
- Emergency contact information (friend, neighbour, or family)
- Any medical history that might be relevant
- Instructions for how to securely enter and lock up your home
If your cat is indoor-only (which we recommend), make that explicitly clear. If there are rooms the sitter shouldn’t access or routines around open windows or balconies, include that too.
Optional—but helpful—extras
If you’d like your sitter to water plants, bring in the mail, or take out the trash on longer bookings, just let them know in advance. These small tasks help keep your home feeling lived-in and cared for while you’re gone.
It’s also thoughtful to leave a spare towel, umbrella, or snack in case your sitter gets caught in the rain—especially in Singapore’s tropical weather.
A note on updates
Most sitters (especially at Lumo Club) will send you daily updates with a quick message and a photo or two. If you’d prefer more—or less—just let them know. Some cat parents love detailed updates, others just want to know everything’s okay. The right sitter will adapt to your communication style.
Final tip: keep it kind
Your sitter is there to care for your cat the way you would. Preparing a warm welcome—a short note, a clean space, a little thank-you—goes a long way. It creates a good experience not just for your cat, but for the human looking after them, too.
After all, the best cat sitting happens when everyone—human and feline alike—feels considered.
References
- Gourkow, N. et al. (2014). “Factors affecting the welfare and adoption success of shelter cats.” Applied Animal Behaviour Science, Volume 158.
- American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) – Environmental Needs Guidelines