professional cat sitter in columbus ohio

7 Reasons You Need a Cat Sitter in Columbus, Ohio

Although we might want to, most of us can’t stay home with our feline friends all day. Whether it’s because of work or travel, cat parents usually have to leave their fur babies home alone. Though cats are recognized as independent creatures, they have needs like any other pet. From food to play, cats are not entirely self-sufficient. Let’s also not forget that the litter box isn’t likely going to clean itself! Fear not, your local cat sitter in Columbus, Ohio can help!

Read on for seven reasons you should hire a Columbus, Ohio cat sitter.

Why You Need a Cat Sitter

As mentioned, cats tend to be self-sufficient. But they also need us more than we think! Consider the following reasons you and your kitty could benefit from cat sitting services:

1. Injury or illness can be addressed immediately.

While it’s unlikely we’d imagine our pet getting sick or injured while we are out of the house, it is a genuine possibility. Cats can get numerous illnesses that sometimes require immediate medical attention. If you’re out of the home, even for just a day, and your kitty shows signs of illness or is injured, your cat sitter can address the problem ASAP. This increases the likelihood of a more efficient recovery.

2. Separation anxiety no more!

Your cat might not seem phased that you’re going away, but there’s a good possibility that it causes them stress and/or sadness. They may yowl at you while you get ready to leave the house or urinate outside their litter box when you are out. If you notice any of these behaviors, this is likely a result of separation anxiety. Consider signing up for professional cat sitting services and this problem could be mitigated.

3. Feeding routines stay consistent.

Your cat’s overall health depends heavily on their feeding routine. Free feeding, which involves leaving large portions of food out for grazing, is generally frowned upon by experts. Also, an automatic feeder isn’t always reliable. While automatic feeders help with portion control and scheduling, they can sometimes stop working or break. A cat sitter helps your cat to maintain a consistent, organized, and healthy feeding schedule in your absence.

4. Litter boxes are always clean.

Nothing is more annoying than returning home to find a fresh turd in the front hallway or a pee-stained rug in the living room. This is probably because your cat’s litter box is filthy! Cats are notorious for being meticulous groomers and prefer to stay clean and fresh, so it’s instinctive they stay away from a dirty box. It’s one thing if your kitty is toilet-trained, or if you have a litter box that cleans itself automatically. Otherwise, your best bet is to book a cat sitter so that clean litter is maintained. This can curb kitty frustration, as well as prevent accidents from happening throughout your home.

5. Your cat can get playtime and physical activity.

Cats need to engage in physical activity daily for optimal psychological and physical health. If you’re gone throughout the day, your kitty may mostly sleep. Although felines need their sleep, it is just as vital for them to move during the day. A cat sitter can encourage that movement when you’re not around.

cat sitters Columbus, Ohio

6. A cat sitter can give affection and companionship.

Although we often recognize cats as being independent and sometimes anti-social, the truth is that they need mental engagement and human love just like any other pet. While cat sitters provide necessities like food, water, and litter box cleaning, they also offer much needed human interaction until the cat’s favorite person returns home (you!). While tech devices (interactive toys and automatic feeders) can help cats be solo; at the end of the day, humans are better at meeting their emotional needs.

7. Cat parents need peace of mind.

A professional, dependable Columbus, Ohio cat sitter can deliver you the peace of mind that you deserve. Several cat parents may begin to feel bad about leaving their fur babies home alone so much, which primarily happens when there’s a significant life change at play (moving, starting a new job, etc.). With the help of a cat sitter, cat parents can rest assured that their feline friend is in good hands when they’re not around.

Hire a Trusted Columbus Cat Sitter

Again, cats are far more independent than dogs, but they have needs too. And if those aren’t adequately addressed, it can be detrimental to their overall well-being. When you can’t be there as often as you’d like, the caring staff at Hands N Paws provides a range of cat sitting services based on your feline friend’s needs.

If you live in Columbus, OH, and you are away at work all day or going out of town and need a helping hand, Hands N Paws is happy to help. We are in business to give our cat parents peace of mind while they’re away. To accomplish this, we treat every cat we work with as if it were our own!

It’s important that you’re always doing what’s best for your kitty while you continue to lead a busy life. Needless to say, hiring a cat sitter is always in both you and your cat’s best interest!

Give yourself the pet parent peace of mind you finally DESERVE!

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Stop your worry & stress about your pets!

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By signing this agreement, you confirm that you’ve read, understood, and agreed to the policies below. Your signature also allows us to add your email to our mailing list (you can change your preferences anytime).

Key Terms
– Client = You
– Company = Hands N Paws
– Team Member(s) = Our pet care professionals

Emergency Care Policy
You’re responsible for providing emergency instructions and medical details for your pet. Otherwise, we’ll contact your vet or an emergency clinic in case of an emergency. Team Members may make urgent care decisions (excluding euthanasia) if immediate action is needed. You’re responsible for any veterinary costs, and Hands N Paws isn’t liable for circumstances beyond our control.

Home Access Policy
A lockbox with a spare key is required to ensure we can access your home. Garage or keypad codes are okay but don’t replace the need for a lockbox. Provide clear access instructions in your account notes. If entry is complicated, email us a video walkthrough to avoid delays. Our priority is your pets, not troubleshooting access!

Cancellation Policy
We get it—plans change! Here’s our policy:
– 48+ hours notice: 100% refund as Account Credit.
– 24-48 hours notice: 50% refund as Account Credit.
– Less than 24 hours: No refund.
Refunds are issued as Account Credits and auto-apply to your next invoice.

Safe & Sanitary Environment
You understand and agree that the environment in which we provide services is reasonably sanitary and safe. If we determine that your home is unsanitary or unsafe, we’ll let you know and take appropriate action, which may include stopping services.

Service Termination Policy
In rare cases, if we believe there’s a serious danger to the health or safety of our Team Members or your pets, we may terminate services during a scheduled period. If this happens, you agree to cover the cost of boarding your pet or arranging alternative care until you return. We’ll do our best to notify you and/or your emergency contacts in these situations.

Third-Party Access Policy
You’re responsible for letting us know if anyone else will have access to your home during the scheduled services. Hands N Paws is not liable for any loss, expense, or damage caused by third parties entering your home during this time.

Vaccination, Licensing & ID Policy
Before services begin, all pets must:
– Be up-to-date on vaccinations and local licensing.
– Wear an ID tag with your contact info or be microchipped for identification.

Pet Safety Policy
For everyone’s safety, dogs must remain leashed during walks. Off-leash walks are strictly prohibited.

Accurate Pet Information Policy
Keep your pet’s info in your account accurate and up-to-date. Every three months, you’ll be prompted to review and confirm your pet’s details before being able to request services. Hands N Paws isn’t responsible for issues caused by outdated or incorrect information.

Provide Visuals Policy
For complex routines or home entry instructions, please record a video and email it to us. A visual guide helps us better understand your needs and ensures smooth service delivery.

Flexible Arrival Times
Services are scheduled within a two-hour arrival window to accommodate travel and other clients. While we’ll do our best to meet your preferred times, exact arrival times can’t be guaranteed.

Trial Visits
For extended pet care (e.g., vacation services), we require a Trial Visit while you’re still in town. This helps ensure your pet is comfortable with our team before committing to long-term care.

Service Request Approval & Availability
We do our best to accommodate all requests, but approval depends on Team Member availability. After submitting a request, you’ll receive an email confirmation or declination within 48 hours. If declined, we’ll work with you to explore alternatives.

Communication Policy
Team Members will update you on your pet’s care through post-service journal entries in your account. If they have urgent questions during a service, they’ll call you using the number on file. If you receive a Team Member’s personal number, please don’t use it freely. Keep all communication in your account by responding to journals, updating service notes, or, if needed, contact our main office.

Team Appreciation
Our Team Members work hard to care for your pets, and a little appreciation goes a long way! Feel free to leave kind journal comments, rate services, or tip for exceptional care. It means the world to us!

Meet N Greets
A Meet N Greet is required before starting services to ensure we understand your pet’s needs and provide the best care.
– Virtual Meet N Greets: Free.
– In-Person Meet N Greets: $50.
New Clients can schedule at *www.myhandsnpaws.com*; Existing Clients can book through their account.

Pricing & Surcharges
Visit *www.myhandsnpaws.com* for the most up-to-date pricing. Additional fees may apply in certain situations:
– Last-Minute Services: $15 for requests made within 24 hours.
– Holiday Services: $20 per service on major holidays.
– Additional Pets: $7 per pet beyond the first two.
– Service Adjustments: Fees may apply if additional time or tasks are required.

Payment & Billing
We accept all major credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Discover). A valid card must be stored securely in your account.
– Ongoing Services: Auto-charged every Friday for the previous week’s services.
– One-Time Services: 50% deposit charged upon confirmation; the rest is due by the last service date (auto-charged).
– Declined Payments: You’ll be notified immediately and have 24 hours to resolve it. A 10% late fee (minimum $20) applies after a second declined attempt.

Contract Terms
This agreement starts when you sign it and continues until either of us ends it. You can book additional services online anytime, depending on availability. By signing, you authorize Hands N Paws to enter your home and care for your pets without needing extra contracts for confirmed bookings.

Thanks for trusting Hands N Paws with your furry family! 🐾