Pet Sitting Feeding Instructions: Follow and Record Meals

Feeding looks like the simplest part of pet sitting, but it is where small misunderstandings happen often. Get the instructions in writing, follow them exactly, and record what the pet actually ate. A clear feeding routine keeps the pet comfortable and gives the owner confidence that things are going to plan.

This is general guidance for independent pet sitters and dog walkers, not veterinary advice. Follow the owner's and the vet's instructions, and suggest that the owner consult their vet about any health concern.

Why do feeding instructions go wrong?

Owners know their routine so well that they forget to say the details. "Feed her twice a day" can mean very different things depending on the portion, the time, the type of food, and whether anything is added. Without specifics, a sitter has to guess, and guesses can upset a pet's stomach or routine.

What should you ask before the first visit?

Ask the owner to write down, or confirm in a message, the following:

What food: the type and where it is stored.
How much: the measure and the scoop or cup to use.
When: the time of each meal, and how flexible it is.
Extras: supplements, toppers, or medication hidden in food.
Treats: which are allowed, how many, and any that are off limits.
Water: how often it should be refreshed.
Eating habits: does the pet eat quickly, wait to be called, or need the room to be quiet?
Other pets: should anyone be fed in a separate room?

If the owner gives you a handwritten note, take a photo of it so you have it on your phone.

How do you follow the plan exactly?

Measure, do not estimate. Use the scoop the owner leaves, and level it as they described. Do not change foods, add treats, or share your own snacks. If the pet is used to eating from a certain bowl or place, keep it the same. If the instructions do not cover a situation, such as a pet who is not interested in the meal, ask the owner instead of improvising.

For homes with more than one pet, label or arrange the bowls clearly and watch that each animal eats its own food.

What should you record?

Write down facts, not guesses. A useful entry includes:

The time of the meal.
What and how much was served.
How much was eaten: all, most, about half, a little, or none.
Anything unusual about how the pet ate, such as eating very fast or walking away after a few bites.
Water refreshed, if relevant.

"Fed 1 cup at 6:05 pm, ate all of it within a few minutes, fresh water given" is a perfect note. You do not need to explain why a pet ate less. Simply report it.

When should you tell the owner right away?

Use your agreement and the owner's instructions as your guide. In general, let the owner know promptly if a pet skips a meal, shows a sudden change in appetite, or if food has been spilled, stolen, or eaten by the wrong animal. State what you saw and ask how they would like you to proceed. Do not suggest causes or treatments. If you think the pet may be in urgent trouble, follow the emergency plan the owner gave you.

How can you make mealtimes smoother?

Keep the feeding area calm and consistent. Wash bowls if the owner asks you to. Pick up uneaten food if that is part of their routine. Store food as it was found, and close containers tightly. Leave the feeding area tidy so the owner returns to the same setup they left.

How should the update look?

Add a sentence about the meal to your regular update. Many owners especially like to know that their pet ate well. A short line such as "Breakfast finished, water refreshed" answers a question the owner may have been wondering about all day.

Where does Pawstcard fit in?

Pawstcard is a pet sitting report card app we are building for independent sitters and dog walkers. You take your photos, the app drafts a note in your voice, you review it, and your client gets a link with no app or account needed, so you can include the meal details you want to share. It is not released yet.

If you would like to hear when early access opens, you can join the early access list.