How to Watch the Neighbor's Cat

If you agree to cat watch, there are a few things you must do to ensure that you will take proper care of the neighbor's pet.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Neighbor's cat
• Instructions
• Emergency information
• Neighbor's cell phone number
• Cat food
• Pooper scooper and litter box

Be Prepared

1. Make sure your neighbor shows you where the cat food is located. Be sure to get all instructions for the cat.

2. Know the name of the cat that you're taking care of or each cat if there are several.

3. Keep the cat's veterinary information readily available in case of an emergency. This should include the vet's name, address, hours of operation, general phone number and an after-hours emergency number. Know where the cat carrier is kept if you need to transport the cat to the vet.

4. Be aware of any medications the cat may be on as well as how to administer them and when.

5. Make sure you have your neighbor's cell phone number or number where he can be reached.

Taking Care of the Cat

6. Give the cat the cat food its owner has provided. Cats like eating at the same time everyday.

7. Wait for the cat to finish eating and dispose of any uneaten food to avoid any bacteria growing in the dish.

8. Make sure the water bowl is full.

9. Scoop out the cat litter box and place in a disposable bag. Place the bag in an outside trash container if possible. Make sure you take care of every litter box if there is more than one.

10. Pet the cat if it's friendly. Kitty may be lonely if its owner is away for a long period of time. A little scratch behind the ears will help, too.

11. Know where the cat is when you open the door. Make sure it doesn't follow you out when you leave.

Tips & Warnings

• If this seems like too much work for you, or you just don't want to do it, kindly suggest a professional cat sitting service to your neighbor.
• If you lose your neighbor's cat while sitting for it, call animal control immediately after checking the area close to the house. Don't panic too soon. Cats are territorial and it will probably return to the house eventually.