Just like us, pets get nervous too – especially when their favorite human isn’t around. And if you’re the one stepping in as the sitter, you might find yourself with a kitty who’s a little frightful. Don’t worry, though! With some patience and a few simple tricks, you can help calm their nerves.

Give Them Plenty of Space

Cats are incredibly independent. So when they’re feeling anxious, they often want a safe spot to retreat. Do not force a cat to play with you; let the feline decide when they’re ready to interact. Sit quietly in a room and allow them to approach you. Sometimes, just having another human nearby without pressure is all they need to feel safe enough to peek out and come closer on their own terms.

Stick to the Routine

Cats are creatures of habit, and routines are important. Before the owner leaves, make sure you know the cat’s usual schedule-meal times, play sessions, and even when the litter box gets cleaned. Keeping things consistent helps a cat feel safe when their human isn’t around.

Comforting Scents (and Sounds)

Cats rely heavily on scent for comfort. Ask the owner to leave behind something with their smell: a T-shirt, blanket, or even a bathrobe. Place it near the kitty’s favorite napping spot, and it will feel like their owner is near. Soft background noise, like calming music or a TV on low volume, can help mask unfamiliar sounds that might otherwise spook and frighten them.

Playtime

Playtime is one of the best stress relievers for cats. Grab their favorite toys--maybe it’s a feather wand, a string, or even a toy mouse - and give them a chance to burn off some of that nervous energy. You don’t have to go overboard with play, just enough to pique their curiosity.

Bribe Them (With Treats!)

Let’s be real: treats go a long way in making friends with a cat. Once you’ve built up a little trust, try tossing a treat near them. Then move to gently placing it closer, and eventually, they might be brave enough to take one from your hand. Slow and steady wins the race.

Keep the Litter Box Clean

Cats are very particular about their bathrooms. They are clean animals, and if the litter box isn’t clean enough for them, they will find another place to go, and you don’t want them urinating in a closet corner. Scoop the box out regularly (a few times a day if you can). A clean litter box equals a happy (and less stressed) kitty.

Try Calming Tools

Here’s a cool trick: when cats have kittens, they produce calming pheromones to keep their babies feeling safe. Luckily for us, there are synthetic versions of these pheromones…like sprays and diffusers you can use to help an anxious cat relax. Don’t worry, humans can’t smell them, so no weird odors in your space. Pair this with a gentle voice and slow movements, and you’ll build a sense of calm around the kitty.

Go the Extra Mile

If you really want to go the extra mile for the animal you’re sitting for, think about how their environment makes them feel. Indoor comfort is key, but outdoor spaces matter too. A cat-friendly garden can give them safe spots to explore, lounge, or take a catnap in the sun. Not all cats are outdoor cats, so check with the owner before giving them yard time.

Pet sitting an anxious cat definitely takes some patience, but once they warm up, it’s totally worth it. Give them space, stick to their routine, toss in some playtime (and a few treats), and you’ll be surprised at how quickly a nervous kitty will start to come around.

Tammy has an extensive background in journalism, media relations, social media strategy, marketing, and brand management. She resides in Michigan with her family, which includes her two sons and their Goldendoodle, Max. In her free time, she loves to read and travel.