One of the first questions you might have if you’re considering working as a cat sitter is whether or not you need a license. No, you don’t require a license to look after cats. There are, however, a few professional and legal factors to bear in mind. The first step in starting a cat sitting business is to register with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) as a self-employed person. This will entail filing an annual tax return and paying any outstanding taxes and national insurance contributions. You must also maintain complete records of your earnings and outgoings.
Additionally, having public liability insurance is an excellent idea. This will safeguard you in the event that a cat in your care causes harm to someone or their property. Although it’s not required by law, certain clients might anticipate that you carry this kind of insurance.
There are no particular prerequisites for cat sitters in terms of credentials. But it’s critical to have a solid grasp of cat behavior and care. You should feel at ease handling cats and be knowledgeable about how to handle any potential behavioral or health problems. For more assurance that you can react appropriately in an emergency, you might want to think about enrolling in a pet first aid course.
Your earning potential as a cat sitter will vary depending on a number of variables, including your region, your level of experience, and the services you provide. The National Association of Registered Pet Sitters (NARPS) performed a poll to determine the average visit fee for pet sitters in the UK. It was between £10 and $12. Rates, however, may be higher in more affluent locations or for special services like grooming or medicine administration.
In conclusion, even though you can cat sit without a license, there are some ethical and legal issues to be aware of. Running a successful cat sitting business requires registering as a self-employed person, getting public liability insurance, and developing your cat care expertise and experience. Although pay rates can differ, the typical visit fee is between £10 and $12.