How much should I pay the neighbor to feed my 4 cats?

[aprilgail2]

We watched my neighbors house and cat for 6 weeks-took in the mail-mailed them bills where they were staying so they could pay them, fed the cat, wateredthe plants and we would never have taken money for it but they brought my dauhgter back some lovely things from Florida-3 Pelican Pete autographed books, a Pelican Pete stuffed animal, a t-shirt and some fudge.

 

[Regina]

My friend had 3 cats that I used to watch when she went on vacation. She lives about 10 minutes from here.

She thought that the litterbox would be fine, but the smell was overwhelming so I purchased litter and replaced it. Since you mention not having to worry about this, I don't know what you use or have planned. You may want to reconsider and ask that your neighbor change it out while you're away.

This was awhile ago. She would bring me back something from her trips, but to be honest, I can't remember what that was.

After one trip in the winter, when it snowed something awful and I almost killed myself getting to her door, I had to tell her that I couldn't do it anymore. I guess our friendship was dependent on the catsitting. I hardly heard from her after that, and then it simply ended.

 

[wdw4us]

I have 3 cats. If I were to board them at the best place it's $20 per day per cat. I LOVE my cats and don't want them to be upset when I leave so I have a friend or my SIL watch them. They have to drive to my house to do this.

I pay them between $120-$140 for about 10 days of work. Both go on quilting trips with me so I either pay all or a portion of those retreats which is the above amount. All I do is make up a nice gift certificate on the computer saying that I have pre paid the trip and I also leave a nice snack for them to enjoy, their favorite cookies or chocolate.

It is a huge load off my mind and in the long run a better deal for both of us. My friend Karen works at my vet's office so I know they are getting good care and if there was a problem she'd take care of it.

How much does it cost for peace of mind?

denise


PS, I also buy disposable litter boxes, one per day - you need that for 3 cats. All they do is come in unzip the new box, take the old and put it in a large trash bag and put it on the back deck for disposal when we return. Clean and easy.

 

[Ranatra]

I've paid a neighbor for years to take care of my dog if we're away for the day or overnight.
She recently took care of my poodle 2 weeks ago when we were gone ALL DAY from 8:00 in the morning to 11:00 at night for my DD's Wedding. She had to let her out every 4 hours, feed her, and give her Meds. I paid her $30 for that day. She is a single older woman on a limited income and it helps her out.

To answer your question, I'd ask my neighbor and come to an agreement with her, that's how's I'd handle it. 9 days is a long time to be responsible for someone's pet.