Cat Sitting by Susan LLC, 117 Rowell Court, Falls Church, VA 22046
(703) 867-7140 | A proudly woman-owned business!
We want to take care of your kitty!
Over 2,300 cats cared for!
See reviews below, or pics above from our happy customers!
Cat Sitting by Susan Team Leaders
Susan!
Susan Tate is the owner and CCW (Chief Cat Whisperer)! She loves cats and has had many in her 60+ years! Cat Sitting by Susan will take great care of your cat and is even able to provide insulin shots or other medication, if necessary. You will receive photos, videos, and texts while you’re away so that you can rest easy knowing your furry family member is happy and being well taken care of. Susan is married to her husband Gregg, and live in Falls Church, VA. They have 3 daughters, two granddaughters, and two grandsons. They had a big, happy cat named Patrick (photo below) who passed away after a bout with cancer. They then adopted Snickers (see below) who's their newest love, and recently added a new kitty, Fred, to the family! You can rest assured that we will love and treat your furry family member as one of our own!
Lourdes!
Lourdes is our Director, helping Susan to run and grow this vibrant, exciting business, and occasionally cares for some of our kitty clients! She was born and raised in Washington, DC and had several different furry family members, including dogs and bunnies. In her spare time, she enjoys anything outdoors, including hiking and photography. Lourdes loves cats because, "they are not only beautiful creatures, they are also intriguing and challenge you to get to know them for the individual being that they are." As to why she joined Cat Sitting by Susan, Lourdes' answer is, "Susan! To start, I love that Cat Sitting by Susan is a small, local, woman-owned business, operated by people who genuinely love cats and enjoy caring for them. Changed career paths to follow my passion for animals and helping people, so it's the best of both worlds!"
Cat Sitting by Susan Sitter team
Paws down, the best cat sitting team in Northern VA (just read our reviews!), including our veteran sitter, Erin!
Erin was born in Virginia and grew up in Springfield. She has mostly had cats growing up, including two tortoiseshell kitty sisters. She still has one, who is now 14 years old and still going strong. She loves reading and learning. Erin says, "I love cats because although they seem mysterious and distant at first, once they familiarize themselves with you, they can be so loving and sweet." She is currently going to school at NOVA Community College, soon to be working on a degree in Accounting. She saw the job listed, and knew that as the cat lady in her family, the job seemed perfect as well as getting to spend time doing something she loves.
Ashley!
Ashley was born and raised in Arlington, VA. Growing up, she had a menagerie - 5 cats, two dogs, and 4 hamsters over the years! Currently, she has 3 kitties, Precious, Suki, and Sterling. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, trying new foods, and hanging out with her friends and her sweet kitties. She says she loves cats, "because they don't just love immediately and/or unconditionally; it might take time for a cat to warm up to you, but as soon as they do, they're yours forever. I think that more often than not, the cat chooses the human and not vice versa. Cats also have so many different personalities that go unappreciated when compared with dogs." She is currently working as an Instructional Assistant for elementary students with autism, but decided to join the Cat Sitting by Susan team. "I have always had a passion for cats, and I want to spend all my free time with kitties!"
Kela!
Kela was born in Columbia, South Carolina and was raised in Maryland. Growing up, she had dogs, turtles, a hamster, a bunny, and a kitty! She now has a 3-year old domestic shorthair named Xavier. She enjoys playtime with her pets, brain teasers, spending time with friends, knitting and crocheting, and exploring new places. Kela says, "I’ve always wanted to be able to care for cats when I was younger but since my parents were allergic, I never got the chance. I love being able to give back to the kitties!" She is currently in college pursuing a degree in criminology, but decided to also join the Cat Sitting by Susan team because, as she puts it, "I love getting the opportunity to spend time with cats and ensure that they are happy and healthy."
Monica!
Monica grew up in a military family and was born in Panama, but grew up in Alexandria, Virginia. She has always had pets ever since she was a child, and currently has multiple cats! She enjoys singing, going on nature walks, gardening, learning new things, and hanging out with her kitties! She says, "I love how each cat has their own unique personality. I always find cats fun and interesting to get to know." She works for Fairfax County Public Schools, but wanted a "part-time job that I would enjoy and be able to help others, including cats."
Cadia!
Cadia was born in Guatemala and grew up in Arlington, VA. She had three cats and a dog growing up and now has three kitties, Luna, Gordo, and Taquita. In her spare time, some of her favorite things are taking nice long walks, being outside, and hanging out with friends. Cadia says, "I have always had 3 cats in my life. They are just so gentle and caring and I love them so much for just being them!" She graduated high school this year, and is taking a gap year. She decided to join the Cat Sitting by Susan team because, as she puts it "I honestly love working with cats since I have always been around them, and when I saw that this job was open, I was so excited."
Miracle!
Miracle was born in Fairfax, VA and grew up in Vienna, VA. She had three cats growing up, and currently has two kitties, JuJu and Millie. In her spare time, she loves reading, working out at the gym, and hanging out with her friends. She says, "I love cats because their very unique. I love how energy-based they are and that they take their time to get used to a new place or person. I love their independence as well as their curiosity for life, that I can relate too." She is currently working on earning an esthetician license and is taking online courses for stocks/ cryptocurrency. Miracle decided to join the Cat Sitting by Susan team because, as she said, "I've wanted to work with cats for some time. So, at this point in life, looking for a job and then finding one working with cats was great news for me!"
Tom!
Tom was born and raised in Falls Church, VA. He says that he had pretty much every pet you can think of growing up, and bred parakeets and transparent fish. Literally transparent except for their eyes and heart! Tom says, "I'm a bit of nerd and enjoy computer games if I'm not busy with my wife and kids. I love cats because they all have different personalities and you have to win them over!" His photo is with one of his kitties, Sissy! He is planning on going back to school to finish up his computer science degree if he can find the time. Tom says, "I chose to work for Cat Sitting by Susan because they are the most respected and cat centric pet sitting company there is in NoVA!"
Dan!
Dan was born in Crystal Lake, Illinois and moved to Arlington, Virginia when he was 14. Growing up, he had dogs, an iguana, and a cat name Pandora. He recently moved to Falls Church after living in Chicago for the last 5 years. He particularly loves playing with, and caring for, his two daughters, Harper and Sparrow. He also enjoys cooking and is a huge Chicage sports teams fan. He has worked as an animal care specialist and an adoption counselor at the Anti-Cruelty Society in Chicago. He has joined the Cat Sitting by Susan team because, as he says, "While working at the shelter, I really fell in love with cats, and I love being around them and taking care of them."
Holly!
Holly was born and raised in rural Minnesota. Growing up, she had several dogs and a great many cats, mostly the descendants of a dignified calico named Momma Kitty! Her current kitty is Josie, who joined her family in 2019. Some favorite pastimes include gardening, writing fiction, reading, traveling, and observing Josie as she eyes birds from the window. Holly says she loves kitties because of their "cattitudes," cozy purrs, and how they prowl around like mini mountain lions! She retired from the Air Force in 2018 and recently moved to Virginia with her spouse, who is still active duty, and their daughters. She is a registered yoga teacher and is working on a novel, along with other smaller writing projects. Holly says she decided to join the Cat Sitting by Susan team because "I want to reduce the distress of kitties and their families during times of separation. I know first-hand that it’s no fun to worry or to be the cause of a cat’s distress."
Marielle!
Marielle was born in the Philippines and grew up in Hyattsville, MD. As a kid, she mostly had dogs as pets, but she now has a sweet orange tabby named Killua (Kiwi for short). In her spare time, Marielle enjoys cooking, watching movies, and visiting cat cafés and shelters. She says she has a profound love for cats because hers saved her life in so many ways. "They are so intelligent, full of life and they are also loyal companions," she adds. She is currently a stay at home mom, fully loving on her two kids and her super hunter kitty! Marielle explains, "I actually never thought that cat sitting for work existed! I was so surprised to find the ad online and with no second thoughts, I applied right away. This truly feels like a dream job. Caring for other kitties as I would my own is the best way I can make a difference for other cat parents. I truly believe that as a cat sitter, I can provide assurance that the cats will be loved and cared for immensely."
Leah!
Leah was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. Growing up, she had an orange and white kitty named Chibbie, and she now has a male tabby named Bruce! In her spare time, Leah enjoys reading non-fiction, taking long walks, traveling, baking, and watching professional tennis. She decided to make a career change to become a cat sitter for Cat Sitting by Susan, and we are so pleased! She explains that, "The company truly understands the immense love people have for their cats and how important it is to know cats are receiving exceptional care and attention when they are out of town. I also love that this is a business dedicated to cats! Cat Sitting by Susan has taken care of my cat and the sitters are exceptional!" Leah says that she loves kitties because of the endless sweetness and cuteness they add to a home, their independence, how wise they are, and their great capacity to love!
Brody!
Brody was born in Washington, DC and raised in Falls Church, VA. As a child, she was lucky to have both dogs and cats. She currently has two sweet kitties, Cleo and Sophie, that she adopted while living in Belgium. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, watching movies, going on long walks, and hanging out with her kids! Brody says she loves "that special feeling when a cat chooses you, especially a shy one." She is working towards a certification as an ADHD life coach. She decided to join the Cat Sitting by Susan team, because "I love being around animals, especially cats, and I was delighted to find something that fit with my current schedule."
Min!
Min was born in Seoul, South Korea but grew up in Centreville and Fairfax, VA. He had a dog, fish, a turtle, and hamsters! He currently doesn't have a kitty, but loves them and hopes to adopt one soon! In his spare time, Min enjoys hiking, camping, traveling, and trying out new foods. He says he loves cats because "I love their characteristics and physique. They are so intelligent and I get fascinated when I watch them leap to high places or squeeze their bodies into tiny places. And of course, their purrs! The bond you create after earning their trust is very rewarding too!" He says that he is currently an entrepreneur, hoping to create something that will bring value to other cat lovers. Min decided to join our team because "I had a very pleasant meeting with Gregg and Susan, I think what they are doing is awesome and I want to be a part of that, how can you say no to an opportunity to be around cats and earn a living at the same time?"
Liz!
Liz was born and raised in Aurora, IL. Her husband's career in the Air Force moved her family to the DC area. She always had a dog and a cat growing up, and currently has a 5-year old cat named Pig! Her favorite activities are hiking and long walks, and she and her daughter love watching funny cat videos. Liz says, "I love cats because they are so unique and adorable! They are very playful and enjoy the simple things such as paper bags and boxes!" She is a stay-at-home mom until school starts again when she hopes to begin working toward becoming a dental hygienist. For now, she's decided to work for Cat Sitting by Susan because of her love for cats. She says, "As a cat owner, I know how important it is to make the cat feel safe and loved when their owners are away."
Chelsea!
Chelsea was born and raised in Connecticut. She told us that she always had cats growing up, but she grew a much deeper appreciation for them when she adopted Butterscotch and Tootsie Roll as an adult. She calls them her candy cats. They were litter mates and are 3 years old. In her spare time, she and her wife love to play board games, their favorites being Carcassonne and the Dead of Winter. Chelsea says she loves kitties because "it is so rewarding to earn a cat's love and trust. They are cute, floofy and silly and bring my heart a lot of joy." She is currently working at a cat cafe, helping people find their own cats to adopt! She explains that she decided to join the Cat Sitting by Susan team because "I know how important my fur babies are to me and I want to make sure other's fur babies still feel loved and taken care of when their own parents (or paw-rents!) are away."
Karen!
Karen was born and raised in Arlington, VA. Growing up, she had a dog named Bear and a cat named Captain. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, hiking, and trying new restaurants! She says she loves kitties because "I love cats because they're so intelligent. I love that they're playful and can turn anything into a toy or a place to nap. It's so endearing to hear a cat purr when you're petting them." Karen is currently applying for residency programs to become a doctor. She says that she decided to join our team, because "I decided to work for Cat Sitting for Susan although I don't have any pets now, I know how important it is for your pet to be properly cared for when you are away. I love cats and I often pet sit for friends."
Olivia!
Olivia was born in Alexandria, VA, grew up there, and has had one cat that "has been with me my whole life (which I very much appreciate)". At the moment, she only has the one cat, but would definitely like to have more. In her spare time, she does Zumba on the weekends, and she enjoys going out to the movies, but as she explains, "like most cats, I like to stay inside and relax whenever I can." Olivia says she loves kitties because she feels that she can relate to them the most of any animal, and she feels that they are not always thought of as much as they should be. "Cats are amazing, beautiful creatures who should be appreciated." She is currently working with children as an after-school teacher, and decided to join the Cat Sitting by Susan team because "as soon as I saw the words cat sitting, I was hooked. I previously worked as a dog walker, but I didn’t feel very passionate about it. There were times that I was asked to take care of cats and that was the most fulfilling part of the day. A job where I can be around my favorite house pet, and maybe even learn more about what it means to take care of a cat; what more could I ask for?"
Stella!
Stella was born and raised in Las Vegas, NV! She had four catss growing up, Shadow, Tuck, Veto, Little Brother, and Sabine. Currently, she does have any cats, but hopes to have one someday soon! She enjoys playing piano and accordion, rollerskating, and reading. Stella says she loves kitties "because you have to work to build a relationship with them, which makes it all the more rewarding when you earn their trust and love!" She is a student at Prince George's Community College and a proud member of the Mighty Sound of Maryland marching band! She told us, "I was drawn to Cat Sitting by Susan because I love animals (especially cats!) and want to work with them in any way I can!"
Theresa!
Theresa was born and raised in Arlington, VA and still lives in the area. Growing up, she had two chihuahuas named Pikachu and Mickey and a cat named Midnight because he was pure black! She currently has no cats of her own, but always cares for her best friend's kitties when she's out of town. Theresa loves the outdoors when the weather is nice and loves to run, hike, and spend time with family and friends. She says she loves cats "because they are so easy going. Even though they are independent animals they still have a huge personality." She currently works in the healthcare industry and loves helping people and being part of a team that is always striving to do more. Theresa decided to join the Cat Sitting by Susan "because helping in any way I can is always a pleasure to me. I want cat owners to feel they can travel and visit family and friends without having to worry about their fur babies."
Samantha!
Samantha was born in Falls Church, but grew up in Fairfax. As she phrased it, she "grew up with lots of cats and dogs"! She now has six kitties of her own! In free time, she enjoys hanging out with friends, going to concerts, and painting. Samantha says, "I love cats because they are really funny and great company to keep." She is currently focusing on her art and finding her passions. She told us, "I chose to work for Cat Sitting by Susan because I'm already an experienced pet sitter who loves cats!"
Téa!
Téa was born in Alexandria, VA, and grew up in Falls Church City. Growing up, she had a dog and a cat. She still has Buster, the same kitty that she's had since she was ten years old! In her spare time, she liks to read, paint, spend time with family and friends, and take pictures of her kitty. Téa says she loves cats because "I think they are so smart, cute, curious, independent, and being around them makes me feel instantly better. I also love how they all have their own unique personalities." She will be attending NOVA Community College in the summer/fall for graphic design. As to why she's joining the Cat Sitting by Susan team, "I would love the opportunity to care for other peoples' cats as much as I do mine. Having a job where I get to meet peoples' cats and spend time with them is a dream come true."
Caitlynn!
Caitlynn was born in Layton, UT, but grew up in Fort Walton Beach, FL. Her family had, and still has, a cat named Caesar and a dog named Mila. She also has kitties named Petrie and Boseman. In her spare time, she likes to draw, paint, do DIY crafts, and collect houseplants. Caitlynn says she loves cats because "my grandparents always had cats while I was growing up and I loved how unique each of their personalities were and what quirks they had. Cats make wonderful companions once you earn their trust and respect their individual boundaries." She is currently a freelance illustrator working on her portfolio and saving to attend graduate school in the next few years. She joined the Cat Sitting by Susan team because, "I saw this as a great opportunity to specialize in cat care and work with an excellent local business doing great work in the community."
Natalie!
Natalie was born and raised in Richmond, VA. She hopes to adopt a kitty of her soon! During her free time, she enjoys playing guitar, reading, and spending time outdoors - hiking, camping, backpacking, biking, all of the above! She loves kitties because, as she explains, "Cats are great companions! People can be quick to judge them but once you get to know a cat, it is so rewarding! Plus they are very cute!" Natalie is working as a medical assistant and is working to go back to school when she can. She chose the Cat Sitting by Susan team because, "I wanted a more flexible job that allowed me to do something that I really enjoy which includes taking care of cats.
And of course, our official mascot/spokeskitty, Snickers!
We adopted Snickers from the Animal Welfare League of Arlington, VA, and immediately fell in love with him! He is a 14-year old diabetic kitty, and what a cutie he is! Very affectionate, and he has quickly become a part of our family! We documented Snickers' journey to us on the Cat Talk! blog. BTW, he's the face in the Cat Sitting by Susan logo!
We'll Take Great Care of Your Fur Babies!
We know that your babies need attention and playtime, not just feeding. Petting, cuddling, and talking to your furry friend are just as important as food and water! We'll take the best care of your furry little ones at a very reasonable price including feeding, litter box cleaning, and the loving and cuddling your fur baby needs! Please see additions/surcharges below. We accept cash, check, PayPal, Venmo, and all major credit cards (using the Payment drop down menu below). Overnight visits are available starting at $75. Minimum per visit rate - $26. Please note - we do not board kitties.
- Base rate (one or two cats, per visit) - $20.00
- Additional kitties (per cat, per visit) - +$5.00
- Have 5 or more kitties? - only +$4.50 per cat, per visit
- Administer medication (per medication, per cat, per visit) - +$5.00
- Distance surcharge (over 5 miles from our location, each 5 miles) - +$5.00
- Congested area surcharge (see below) - +$5.00
- Last minute weekend surcharge (see below) - +$10.00
- Paid street parking, if necessary (see below) - +$1.50
- Gas surcharge (see below) - +$1.00 per visit
- As of June 1, 2022, minimum per visit rate is $26
There is a $5.00 per visit surcharge for families in high-rise apartment/condo buildings in congested, non-parking friendly areas of Arlington, including Ballston, Rosslyn, Crystal City, and Pentagon City. As well, if the only parking available is paid or metered street parking, there is a $1.50 charge per visit, except Sundays and holidays. There will be a $10 last minute weekend surcharge for jobs requested after 5:00pm Friday that start anytime Saturday through Monday morning.
Due to sharply rising gas prices, we are adding a gas surcharge of $1 per visit to help our sitters defray transportation costs. 100% of this will go to the sitters.
Due to the high demand for cat sitting services around holidays and during school breaks, visits on any of the following dates will have a holiday surcharge added ($5.00/visit), so will have a base rate of $25 per visit:
- April 1-10 (Spring Break)
- May 12-14 (Mother's Day)
- May 26-29 (Memorial Day)
- June 16-19 (Father’s Day, Juneteenth)
- June 30-July 4 (Independence Day)
- September 1-4 (Labor Day)
- October 6-9 (Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples' Day)
- November 10-12 (Veteran's Day)
- November 18-26 (Thanksgiving)
- December 15-January 2, 2024 (Christmas, Hannukah, Kwanzaa, New Year's Day)
If cancelling with less than 72 hours notice, there will be a cancellation charge equal to the greater of 25% of the total booking amount or the cost of one visit.
*Effectively immediately, our minimum visit frequency is once a day visits, i.e., we will no longer accommodate every other day requests.
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