Kitty in NY - blog - Kitty in NY

Mariia provides boarding services in StuyTown, East Village

9/26/2024

We would like to introduce you to some of our caregivers. KITTY in NY has selected over the years some outstanding people who have one thing in common: they LOVE cats!

Hi — my name is Mariia. I live in StuyTown by myself and have no pets currently. I work from home so I spend a lot of time at home. As I grew up surrounded with cats, being around them feels natural to me. I’m very excited to board more kitties in my home and take care of them. Thank you!

If you live in the East Village and need a temporary home for your cat/s, Mariia might be available. Boarding is the best solution for your mid/long term needs, you bring your cat/s to the caregiver's apartment where they will be the ONLY pets! Contact us and send more details about the service you're looking for, we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Kim provides boarding and cat sitting visits in the Upper East Side

9/16/2024

We would like to introduce you to some of our caregivers. KITTY in NY has selected over the years some outstanding people who have one thing in common: they LOVE cats!

Hi! I’m Kim. I’m an Upper East Sider who would love to make new cat friends! In my free time, I’m probably knitting, sewing, or playing video games. I’m so looking forward to playtime and cuddles with your fluffs!

Kim might be available if you are leaving the city and need help with your cats. Boarding is the perfect solution for your long term needs, you bring your cat to the caregiver's apartment where she/he will be the only pet. Kim's spacious apartment could be the perfect spot for your kitties while you're away. Cat sitting visits are recommended for your short trips or weekends, the caregiver comes to visit your cat/s in your apartment. Contact us and send more details about the service you need.

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REVIEWS

Amrit - by survey 9/16/2024
*****
Kim was fantastic in caring for our fur baby. She is detailed and trustworthy, and put us at ease during our travels. Highly recommend entrusting your pet with her!

Maria provides sitting and boarding services in Woodside, Queens

9/15/2024

We would like to introduce you to some of our caregivers. KITTY in NY has selected over the years some outstanding people who have one thing in common: they LOVE cats!

Hello, my name is Maria Belen, I am Ecuadorian, I moved to New York eight years ago, I work in the marketing department of a law firm. I really like spending my free time at home, I love cooking and having cat company from time to time sounds like a great idea. In Ecuador I had two cats that I loved and with whom I was able to create a relationship that I will never forget. Now I live alone and the doors of my house are open for such a pleasant visitor.

It is stressful to leave our beloved felines when we travel. Boarding is recommended for your longer term needs, you bring your cat to the caregiver's apartment where he/she will be the only pet. Cat sitting visits are perfect for your weekend/holiday trips, a caregiver visits your cat in your apartment. You will receive periodic updates during the service. Contact us and send more details about your pet/s and the service you're looking for, we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Jennifer provides boarding services in Greenwich Village

9/13/2024

We would like to introduce you to some of our caregivers. KITTY in NY has selected over the years some outstanding people who have one thing in common: they LOVE cats!

Hi, I’m a student in West Village currently pursuing a career in behavioral science. I grew up looking after cats and volunteered at SPCA through high school, I love spending time with cats and think they’re rewarding and charming to work with. I have experience administering medicine and would be happy accommodating any other needs your cat may have.

Jennifer might be available to help you with your cat when you need to leave the city. In-home boarding is perfect for your mid/long term needs. You bring your cat/s to the caregiver's apartment where they will be the ONLY pets! You will receive regular updates during the service. Contact us and send more details about your cat/s and the service you need. We'll be glad to help you find the best solution for your cat care needs.

Sidra provides in-home boarding and cat sitting services in Crown Heights, Brooklyn

9/13/2024

We would like to introduce you to some of our caregivers. KITTY in NY has selected over the years some outstanding people who have one thing in common: they LOVE cats!

I've always been a big animal lover for as long as I can remember. I grew up with a beloved cat and many other pets including a dog and I actually thought I was a dog person for a long time, until I lived with two cats in 2020 and fell in love again! There's nothing more special than a bond with a cat, and I truly love meeting each one and discovering how unique their personalities are. I'm a gouache/watercolor artist and often paint animals and pet portraits; I even discovered a lot of old drawings from when I was a kid were of cats! I think it's so important to give your cat space at first and get to know them, I'm a gentle empath and will make sure your cat has the best stay in my home. I'll provide lots of cuddles and playtime - if that's what they like! I'm also a film nerd and love watching old 80's and 90's thrillers, riding my bike around Brooklyn, and recently took up knitting which goes well with my cat girl status. I'd love to get to know your kitty BFF!

I've been boarding cats in my apartment for about three years now and it's been the best, so I'm ready to start doing home visits to meet more cats! :) I'm super communicative, reliable, and will send lots of photos and videos. I always make sure to spend a lot of time with your cat giving them love and attention and lots of play time. I'm also a neat freak and will make sure I leave your space tidy and clean. I think cats are super sensitive and emotional beings and can sense your energy right away so I try to always match their behavior and give them enough space if they need, and I find they usually warm up to me pretty quickly. I can't wait to meet and care for your kitties!

I'm willing to visit Crown Heights, Bed Stuy, Prospect Heights, Ridgewood/Bushwick, Clinton Hill, Fort Greene, Downtown Brooklyn, Dumbo, Lower Manhattan, The West Village. Basically anywhere on the A/C line is easy for me to get to!

If you're located in Brooklyn, around Prospect Park, Sidra could be the best option to take care of your cat/s while you are away. Whether you are more interested in boarding or sitting, please send us more details about your cat and the service you need, we'll be glad to help you.

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REVIEWS

Kainoa - by survey 05/26/2023
*****
Sidra was an absolute dream of a boarder for my cat Kodak. She sent photo and video updates every day which made me feel so reassured that he was so happy and comfortable with her. When I had to extend the boarding a few weeks, she was more than happy to and so easy to communicate with. If you are like me and get nervous or guilty when you have to go away from your cat, Sidra provides a wonderful, loving home.

Abbey - by survey 01/19/2023
*****
Sidra did not just exceptionally care for, but loved our cat. She went above and beyond to text photos regularly that showed us how happy our cat was. We really cannot recommend her enough.

Sarah - by survey 09/30/2022
*****
Sidra is a caring, communicative and experienced cat sitter who made me feel super comfortable leaving my cat in her hands for an extended period of time. She regularly sent photos and texts with updates which was so nice to see while away. Her apartment is well equipped for a cat and she even has a cat tree! I could tell that Penny quickly came out of her shell and loved staying with her. I would 100% recommend Sidra as a cat caregiver to anyone!

Carl - by survey 09/19/2022
*****
Sidra looked after our cat Ripley for 3 months while he was waiting for an export permit to travel overseas. Couldn't have asked for a better carer. She was happy to take his toys and furniture so he felt comfortable, logistics around food and litter were straight forward, and she even took him to the vet for the required check-ups in the lead up to his departure. Regular updates with lots of photos and videos, one very happy relaxed boy! He's now here with us on the other side of the world and settling in like he never left us!

Tiffany - by survey 05/05/2022
*****
Sidra was exceptionally kind and provided piece of mind while boarding my cat, Lux. I appreciated her communication when it came to bringing Lux and also in the flexibility to pick her up. She provided wonderful updates so that I knew how the stay was going and I was very appreciated of her professionalism, my cat is shy and Sidra has the magic touch in getting Lux comfortable and happy quickly. I will always seek out Sidra in the future and will recommend her to anyone that asks! Thank you!!

Caress provides boarding and sitting services in Crown Heights, Brooklyn

9/11/2024

We would like to introduce you to some of our caregivers. KITTY in NY has selected over the years some outstanding people who have one thing in common: they LOVE cats!

Caress was raised with cats both sweet and temperamental, so she’s ready to watch your cat no matter the mood. With a happy home and no pets to compete with your furry friend, your cat is her cat as long as they’re in her presence.

We recommend in-home boarding for longer term, if you need to travel for weeks or months. You bring your cat/s to the caregiver's apartment where they will be the ONLY pets! Cat sitting visits are perfect for your weekend trips and holidays, a caregiver comes to your place once or twice a day to take care of your cat/s. Contact us and send more details about your cat/s and the service that best suits your needs, we'll be glad to help you.

The importance of playing with your cat

9/8/2024

Interactive play time is a very powerful tool to build a strong bond with your cat. It is great for trust-building, exercise, release of energy, avoid cat boredom and depression. A cat who receives a daily dose of play time is a happier cat. Don't overlook the importance of activity, it can avoid many behavior issues.

A key ingredient in interactive activity with your cat is YOU. You may have a variety of cat toys in your apartment but they are dead toys without you. The concept behind any cat toy is to allow your cat to act like the hunter she was born to be. When you move a fishing pole type toy as a prey, the target at the end of the string will slide, dart, creep around the room, waking your cat's hunting instinct.

How you move the toy is important. Don't move it too fast or right in front of her face. That's not how felines hunt in the wild. They stalk their preys. Move the toy slowly across her visual filed. Cats cannot run for long periods of time, you should make her run but allow her time to catch her breath. You should always let her catch her prey at least once per session. The game needs to be fun for the cat, not a frustrating experience. End the game slowling down the speed of the toy and letting her play with the "dead" prey for a minute.

You should have a play session every day. It doesn't need to be long, once or twice a day for 15 minutes will do. The benefits are much greater than the time you invest. Your cat will be a healtheir/happier feline. Those sessions develop her confidence, increase trust and relieve stress.

In between games, you should always store interactive toys. Do not leave them out. You want it to be special and most imporant, you don't want your cat to chew on worn out parts that could be dangerous if swallowed. There are some "solo" toys your cat might enjoy on his own (mice, puzzle feeders, those that are safe when you're not around).

Cats are low maintenance pets but neglecting playtime and attention to your cat can result in obesity and other behavior or health issues.

Kitty in NY provides loving caregivers for your cat while you're away. They will play with your cat and make sure she gets the activity she needs. Our cat sitting visits are perfect for short term or very shy cats who wouldn't adjust to a temporary home. An in-home boarding service is recommended for mid/long term services. Contact us to book your next cat boarding service.

Jenni provides boarding services in Fort George, Manhattan

9/6/2024

We would like to introduce you to some of our caregivers. KITTY in NY has selected over the years some outstanding people who have one thing in common: they LOVE cats!

Nice to meet you! I'm a Brooklyn native and lover of all animals. I've lived with animals my whole life--dogs, cats, reptiles--I've also served as a foster and I often help friends with their pets. I'm reliable, consistent, trustworthy, communicative, think quickly and work adaptively. I love getting to know a new cat, learning about their personality and having the opportunity to bond with them. I'm not able to take on being a pet-parent at this time, so being a cat-boarder is so meaningful for me as an opportunity to connect with lovely creatures and support their family! I live alone in a one-bedroom apartment that has a lot of space for your cats to play or lounge in. I'm looking forward to working with you and getting to know your cats!

If you are located in the northern part of Manhattan and need to leave the city for a few weeks, Jenni could be available and welcome your cat/s. You would receive periodic updates. Contact us and send more details about the service you need, we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

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REVIEWS

John - by survey 09/06/2024
* * * * *
Jenni was highly attentive and kept us updated throughout our cats’ stay at her apartment. She sent photos and videos with enthusiasm of our boys’ daily activities.

Paolo - by survey 01/12/2023
* * * * *
Jenni was a wonderful sitter for our cat Biscotti. Even upon first introductions, we felt comfortable and could trust in her experience with caring for cats and providing a comfortable and stimulating home environment. We very much appreciated Jenni's regular updates with photos/videos, as well as her proactive communication in flagging potential issues (which were not issues at all, but we were thankful for her thoughtfulness). We would love to work with Jenni again in the future and wouldn't hesitate to recommend her to others!

Stephanie - by survey 07/18/2023
* * * * *
Jenni was incredible. She spent so much time with my cat, and when I came home, my cat didn’t want to leave!

Is travelling with your cat a good idea?

9/5/2024

Kitty in NY recommends in-home cat boarding for long services instead of travelling with your pet. Cats do not like long trips and will do well in a temporary home until you get back. Avoiding the stress of the trip will be greatly appreciated by your favorite feline. We have clients who boarded their cats for 3/6 months , even for a year. Our caregivers will send you regular updates during the whole boarding period. Contact us and tell us what services you need.

For short weekends or one week trips cat sitting visits to your apartment will save your beloved cat a lot of stress and anxiety.

If you need to take your cat on a car, train or air trip you should ensure it is comfortably secure in the right carrier.

You may give your cat the Bach Flower Essence "Rescue Remedy" to help it with the stress of traveling. Give a few drops in his/her water every day. The flower essence will help your cat remain calm.

It can be dangerous (and ilegal) to have a cat loose in your car – it cause an accident by becoming entangled with the driver. If a window or door was opened the cat could escape and get lost.

You need to invest in a carrier which is strong and easy to clean. Cats can urinate/defecate (or vomit) during long trips. Spray the inside of the carrier and car with Feliway before you're ready to go. Feliway sprayt mimics the pheromones cats leave when they are comfortable and relaxed.

Place the carrier where it will be secure if you have to use the brake suddenly but where it has a good air flow (not under luggage in the back of the car). You can secure the carrier behind the front seats or use the seat belt to hold it securely on the seat. The cat could meow initially or even throughout the whole journey – speak calmly and reassuringly to it but do not let it out of its carrier. The meowing will probably drive you mad but the cat is unlikely to be suffering; just voicing its dislike of the situation! Eventually the constant motion and noise of the car will probably induce your cat to sleep.

If you intend to travel by plane with your cat then you need to plan well ahead. You have a wide selection of airlines and how they transport your cat may influence your choice. Some airlines allow cats to travel with their owners (there is a weight limit and the size/type of carrier should be taken into account, airlines have all instructions regarding pet travel directions on their websites) Sometimes cats have to travel in a special part of the hold which is heated and pressurized. Their fee varies from airline to airline, you should contact them to receive a quote.

Obtain a health certificate from your veterinarian. This health certificate should meet the requirements of your state or country of destination, as well as your airline carrier. Be sure to check on the time restrictions. Certificates often need to be obtained within 2 weeks of the flight. Carry the health certificate and your cat's vaccination certificates with you.

Place identification and contact details on the outside and inside the crate. Print 'Live Animal' on the top and sides of the crate.

Clip your pet's nails. This will prevent breakage of a nail if the pet scratches at the crate door.

When possible select a direct flight so that there is no need for your cat to be disturbed for transfers. This may also affect the timing of the flight you choose.

If you know your cat is a bad traveller and has previously been sick or agitated during a trip it is worth consulting your vet about giving a sedative. However, some cats actually become more agitated with tranquillisers. You should limit the use of tranquilizers as drugs can alter the way cats adjust to temperature changes. Cats also recover from the journey faster when not sedated.

Remember to check all the regulations and requirements if you are taking your cat from one country to another. Preventive health requirements such as rabies vaccination (or even quarantine) will vary. Failure to comply with all requirements could be time consuming and expensive.

Nina provides boarding services in Tudor City, Manhattan

9/4/2024

We would like to introduce you to some of our caregivers. KITTY in NY has selected over the years some outstanding people who have one thing in common: they LOVE cats!

Hi! My name is Nina and I currently live and work in midtown as a dental assistant. I've never owned any pets but have always pet-sat for friends and neighbors. I've also had the opportunity to foster kittens from bidawee too! Working in a patient-care environment has taught me to be calm and empathetic. Trust that your fur babies will be in good hands under my care!

Nina will be glad to welcome your kitty in her apartment. You will receive periodic updates during the service. Your cat will be the only pet in the apartment! Contact us and send more details about your cat and the service you're looking for. We have options all over the city. Our cat sitting visits are recommended for short vacations and holidays while boarding works best with very social cats or long term.

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REVIEWS

Albert - by survey 9/4/2024
* * * * *
Nina is responsive and took great care of my cat!