Watch the Neighbors' Cat

For all those out there that have ever tried to baby-sit a stranger's cat, this is a must read to help things go smoothly!

Steps

 * 1) Visit the cat over at your neighbors' house before they drop him/her off to stay. This way, the little critter can become more familiar with you and will be less stressed later on when he/she is in your home.
 * 2) Ask the owner about feedings, allergies/medications, sensitivities (such as getting along with other animals, etc) and whether or not the kitty is litter-trained. Notice how loud/quiet your neighbor's house is... is your house that quiet? Cats can be very sensitive to unfamiliar noises, and some may choose to hide and not come out.  This is an uncomfortable situation for all involved, but not the end of the world.  In time, kitty will come out for food and bathroom needs, as well as to explore the house when he/she feels comfortable enough to do so.
 * 3) Get contact phone numbers for emergency use or questions you may have later: the owner, the vet, and a friend of the owner who has a car in case of emergency (necessary if you yourself do not have a car).
 * 4) Kitty-proof your place before the cat comes over. This is very important. Make sure wires and other dangly-distracting things are secured and away to prevent kitty-shock or some other unfortunate happenings.  Look carefully around your place for "hiding spots" that would be appealing to a nervous cat. Make sure that it is a space safe for her to hide in - if not (like behind the fridge, in the box-spring of your bed, etc) be sure to block it so she can't get in there.
 * 5) When the cat is over, open his/her kennel and let her come out when he/she is ready to - never reach in as this could result in a nasty scratch.
 * 6) Set up food dishes and water where they are accessible and make sure that the cat sees where you put them. Do the same with the litter box.
 * 7) Give the cat time to adjust to her new surroundings, so sit back and let him/her explore. Cats are territorial creatures, so he/she might want to see every inch of your house!  For the time being, limit noise by closing street-facing windows and turning off (or turning very low) music.
 * 8) Expect the cat to be somewhat skittish for the first day, but by the first night, he/she should be playful and willing to at least sit on the couch with you. If not, no worries, give it time as all cats are different.
 * 9) Set up a play time each day and give plenty of cuddles! Give the cat as much attention as suits his/her needs - but don't bug him/her (learn to read body language.

Tips

 * It is good to leave a few spots for kitty to "hide" so he/she feels more secure in her new surroundings, just make sure that they are all safe places to hide!
 * Listen for traffic noise, construction, loud activities like outdoor sports, kids playing, etc. It is good to get as much information as possible from the owner before the kitty comes over and you are left to figure out on your own if the cat has a bizarre fear of ceiling fans or mirrors.

Warnings

 * Make sure the cat cannot run away, while in your care — probably the first and most important thing about babysitting a cat. And you may need different strategies/environments, depending on how well you know each other and if the cat is used to the outdoors (and what outdoors), or if the cat is always kept indoors. Some cats are used to a leash, some to a necklace, and some cannot stand any of it. The cat should always be tagged, in case it runs away or gets lost.
 * Cats have personalities! Before you agree to take in a cat for your neighbor, really try to find out if the cat would enjoy being at your house. If the kitty is independent and grumpy, it might be best to just drop by a couple times a day to pet and feed him/her instead of holding a grumpy cat hostage for a few days in an unfamiliar space.  Use your judgement and listen carefully to how the owner describes her behavior and attitudes.

Related Tips and Steps

 * Answer the Telephone When You're Babysitting
 * Babysit
 * Pet a High Strung Cat
 * Bathe a Cat
 * Make Cat Toys