Best Side Hustles for Cat Sitting

Many cat owners are looking for reliable and loving individuals to care for their cats while they're away, making it an excellent opportunity to earn extra income. Here are some of the best cat sitting side hustles in Canada, including how you can get started and the potential earnings.

Rover - Cat Sitting Jobs

Rover is one of the most popular platforms for pet sitters, offering various services such as cat sitting, dog sitting, and pet walking. As a cat sitter on Rover, you'll be able to choose your hours, set your own rates, and meet a variety of feline friends.

Income Potential:

Cat sitters on Rover typically charge between $15 to $45 per visit, depending on the services provided (e.g., basic care or special requirements like administering medications).

How to Get Started:

Visit Rover to create a profile and start offering your cat sitting services. The platform allows you to set rates, schedule visits, and communicate with clients easily.

PetBacker

PetBacker is another well-known platform that connects pet sitters with pet owners. It provides a variety of services including cat sitting, dog walking, and more. PetBacker allows sitters to offer their services at competitive rates and earn through different types of bookings.

Income Potential:

On average, cat sitters on PetBacker earn around $20 to $50 per day. The exact amount depends on the level of service, the number of cats, and the frequency of visits.

How to Get Started:

To begin, sign up on PetBacker and create a profile. You can then list your services, set your rates, and apply for jobs in your local area.

Cat Sitting Services Through Local Ads

Local classified ads, such as those found on Kijiji or Craigslist, are excellent places to advertise your cat sitting services. Many people prefer to find pet sitters who are local and come highly recommended by their community.

Income Potential:

The income can vary significantly depending on your location and reputation. Cat sitters in cities may charge $20 to $30 per visit, while rural areas may see rates between $15 to $20 per visit.

How to Get Started:

Post an ad on Kijiji or Craigslist offering your cat sitting services. Ensure you highlight your experience, availability, and the level of care you provide. You can also include testimonials if you have any from previous clients.

Belly Rubs Pet Services

Belly Rubs is a pet sitting and dog walking service that has expanded its offerings to include cat sitting. They cater to clients who need in-home care for their cats, either for short visits or extended stays.

Income Potential:

Belly Rubs offers a competitive pay structure for their cat sitters. Rates typically range from $20 to $50 per visit, with opportunities for ongoing contracts and repeat clients.

How to Get Started:

To become a cat sitter with Belly Rubs, visit their website to learn more about their services and apply for open positions. Check their website for more details on joining their team.

Sittercity

Sittercity is another platform where pet owners can find qualified cat sitters in Canada. It is known for providing various types of sitting services, including for cats, and allows sitters to create a profile to connect with local clients.

Income Potential:

Sittercity rates vary by location and experience, with cat sitters generally charging around $15 to $35 per visit.

How to Get Started:

Sign up on Sittercity to create a sitter profile and search for available cat sitting opportunities. You can list your services, set your rates, and respond to client requests.

Independent Cat Sitting Business

If you’re looking for a more independent and entrepreneurial path, you can start your own cat sitting business. Offering personalized services like pet grooming or overnight stays can help you stand out.

Income Potential:

The income for an independent cat sitting business can vary greatly, with some sitters earning $500 or more a week depending on their clientele and the number of visits per day.

How to Get Started:

Start by advertising locally via social media, websites like Facebook or Instagram, or even through word of mouth. Building a strong local reputation and gaining loyal clients will help you grow your business over time.

Conclusion

Cat sitting is a wonderful and flexible side hustle for cat lovers in Canada. Whether you choose to use popular platforms like Rover and PetBacker or decide to start your own independent business, the income potential is significant and can fit around your schedule. The key to success in this field is building a reputation for providing loving, reliable, and professional care for your clients’ pets.