What instructions should I leave for a cat sitter?

Write down the actual routine: food type and measured portions, water locations, litter care, medication instructions from the vet, access rules and how your cat normally behaves. Include emergency contacts, veterinary details and the location of the carrier. Explain hiding places without asking the sitter to drag a relaxed cat out of a refuge. Agree what observations or photographs you expect after each visit, particularly if eating or medication needs close monitoring. Show how feeders, locks and any automatic litter equipment work, then explain the fallback if they fail.

Test the keys together and identify a backup person. Keep instructions concise enough to use under pressure, with essential emergency information easy to find. A good handover makes the care consistent and helps a temporary carer recognise when something differs from your cat's normal day. Label supplies clearly and keep the latest version of the instructions in one place; conflicting messages can be harder to follow than a concise handover.