EXCELLENT Based on 26 reviews Posted on Google Nick AddisonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Derek has looked after our dog for us a couple of times now and he is our go-to person for walking, feeding and company for Scooby. He can always be relied on to arrive at the scheduled times, sending photos, videos and short notes every time which have been a huge comfort while we have been away. Highly recommended
Owner's reply
Thank you Nick for taking the time to write a review about my dog walking services - I appreciate it. Scooby is a truly unique dog with a unique and endearing personality. I'm constantly amazed by how he negotiates life with such joy and enthusiasm and a love of all people and dogs. Then when you take into account that he's deaf - you realise that he truly has a wonderful indomitable spirit and serves as an example to we mere humans as to how to enjoy life in the face of adversity. Oh and I almost forgot to say that I noticed whilst on my walks with him that he has another ability - to make people smile! Who wouldn't love a dog like Scooby!?Posted on Google Maddy MacdonaldTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Theo, our lively cavapoo loves Derek! We have never had a dog walker before and didn't want Theo to be 'just one of many' on walks with multiple dogs. Derek came to meet Theo first at home which was great and helped us feel more confident. He is always very responsive and has helped us out last minute at times. The K9 app works really well for booking and reports on the walks too. Cannot recommend highly enough
Owner's reply
Thank you Maddy for your appreciation of my dog walking service and in particular caring for Theo, your gorgeous Cavapoo. You could say Theo is a great crowd pleaser when I take him for our walks in the Botanical Gardens. It's wonderful to see peoples' faces light up with broad smiles when they see Theo coming towards them - such is his remarkable presence and his joie de vivre - so infectious! I have no doubt that much of his joy stems from the way you and Mike have treated him since you became his proud pet parents! For my part I just adore him and always look forward to our walks together.Posted on Google Grace QuantTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Derek is so kind and caring and really takes his time with my nervous dog. I would highly recommend his service
Owner's reply
Thank you Grace. I hadn't looked after a Shih-Poo before although I had cared for one of your neighbour's Cavapoos-Theo. Bella was a little bit shy on our first meeting though she quickly responded to my massages everytime I arrived to take her for a walk to the Botanical Gardens. I love that she always seems to know its me entering your home and just lies there on her back waiting for my cuddles. I really look forward to going on walks with her and letting her sniff her way round the Botanical Gardens. The fact that Bella is so loving and affectionate is a tribute to the way you and your partner love and care for her and I am delighted and feel very proud that you have chosen me to look after her.Posted on Google Jennifer HendersonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Derek has walked both my rescue dogs, the most recent arriving just over a week ago. He's been invaluable in helping my new little one settle in with gentle walkies and kindness - even dealing with house training accidents.
Owner's reply
Thank you Jennifer. Of course I'm delighted Josh loves me especially since the feeling is mutual. Bearing in mind his background it's truly remarkable that Josh can love. Josh personifies the old adage that love conquers all and I feel sure that the love you have given him has enabled Josh to become the adorable and loving Cocker Spaniel he now is. Josh is a joy to walk and always gives me such a warm welcome with his twirls and fetching me his toy - a truly amazing and loving dog.Posted on Google Anne DargueTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Derek is reliable and trustworthy . Easy to book and pay online. Takes great care of our dog both with cuddles, walks, feeding and toileting. Flexible with timings of visits whether it's a lunch time walk while I'm at work or away for the whole day for a family wedding. Our dog loves his time with Derek and we can relax knowing he's in safe hands. One on one care from Derek since he's been a puppy. Derek takes and shares many great photos and videos so I can see how happy my pooch is while I'm not around. Derek is very experienced - would recommend for any age of dog.
Owner's reply
Thank you so much Anne for trusting me to look after Ridley. I had never met a Miniature Labradoodle before and was excited to meet him. I was absolutely bowled over by his cuter than cute appearance and endearing behaviour. Of course as well as being sooo cute he's a wonderful guard dog. When I open your front door he immediately goes on guard growling and barking until he sees me then suddenly his barking stops and all he wants is love - lots of it! I find it difficult to resist taking lots of pictures and videos of him at home and as we walk through the nearby woods. And of course should we met anyone on our walk they fall in love with Ridley immediately. I always find you a pleasure to deal with and look forward to going on many more walks with the ridiculously handsome Ridley!Posted on Google JacTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 100% reliable. My doodle is visibly excited as soon as Derek arrives. Even if I am at home, my dog happily trots off for his walk with Derek. He’s also a fountain of knowledge and ideas. Would highly recommend.
Owner's reply
Thank you Jacqui. I can't tell you how much I look forward to going on walks with Bolt, your loving and always smiling Goldendoodle. Bolt is a peculiar dog in the nicest possible way. For instance he's the only dog I walk that bears his teeth at me when I arrive to take him out. I quickly realised that unlike other dogs that bear their teeth aggressively Bolt was mimicking me smiling at him because I am always so pleased to see him. Then after smiling at me he promptly lies on his back on your pouffe for his 5 minute massage before we set of on another quest to find people and dogs - such is his insatiable appetite for making new friends. Should a car pull up Bolt is always there waiting to greet the occupants as they get out of the car! Bolt's owner, Jacqui is a joy to deal with and as you'd expect has a great sense of humour just like Bolt!Posted on Google Jan WrightTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent service from Derek. We got regular updates and lovely videos of our cat Minnie. Derek is caring and spends time fussing over Minnie who clearly loved it! Highly recommend.
Owner's reply
Thank you Jan for your kind words. Minnie is a really affectionate and beautiful cat and after I've fed and watered her and cleaned her litter I like nothing better than to invite her to lie on my chest and stroke her. Judging by her contented purrs she really appreciates this and I'm pleased that I can bring her some comfort whilst you're on holiday.Posted on Google Erica BradleyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I met Derek whilst out walking my elderly dog & it was obvious he cares a lot about dogs & is very knowledgeable. He has since taken my dog out for walks and is very reliable & trustworthy. He always sends pictures and communicates promptly. Would not hesitate to recommend him. Erica
Owner's reply
Thank you Erica for your appreciation. Tess is a sweet little Puggle and she always gives me such a warm welcome when I arrive at your home to collect her. It's a pleasure to take her for walks.Posted on Google ank mTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Derek is pleasant,very reliable and also receptive to short notice requests, which is very helpful indeed. Alma,our cocker, really likes him. Thank you, Derek
Owner's reply
Thank you Anka for trusting me to take Alma for walks. It's a real pleasure walking Alma. She is such a sweet natured Cocker Spaniel. And I always look forward to receiving a warm welcome from her when I arrive to take her for her walk.Posted on Google Helen TaylorTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Derek provides an excellent, caring service and clearly loves animals. My 2 dogs have very different walking styles and one can be dog reactive at times. Derek did an initial visit to meet the dogs and learn all about them, which was very reassuring. I felt very confident that he understood their needs and would be able to manage them in a caring and competent manner. Both dogs were very pleased to see him each morning for their walks and he sent photos and videos showing the great time they were having. I can certainly recommend him to anyone needing help with their pets!
Owner's reply
Thank you Helen for taking the time to review my service. For my part it was a pleasure meeting you and walking your 2 beautiful dogs - Bruin and Oscar and I look forward to seeing them again when you next need my services.Showing our latest reviewsVerified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
If you need a reliable cat sitter in Abbeydale, Sheffield, I provide professional in-home cat care. My services as a cat sitter Abbeydale are designed to keep your cat relaxed, safe, and settled in their own environment. My name is Derek Collinson, and I run K9 Time with more than 40 years of hands-on cat care experience.
Every visit includes a full update with photos and videos sent straight to your phone through my free mobile app, so you always know your cat is happy while you are away. I am fully insured, DBS and police checked, and trained in first aid, giving you complete peace of mind.
I offer cat sitting visits across Abbeydale and the surrounding Sheffield postcodes, with flexible 15-minute or 30-minute options tailored to your cat’s routine. Whether you are heading off on holiday or away for work, I provide the care of a dedicated cat sitter Abbeydale. I treat every cat as if they were my own.
Before anything starts, I offer a free 30-minute meet and greet with no obligation. It gives me a chance to learn your cat’s personality, preferences, and routine so I can provide genuinely personalised care from day one.
In-Home Cat Care In Abbeydale, Sheffield
Cats are territorial creatures. They feel safest in familiar surroundings, which is exactly why my cat sitting service brings the care to your home rather than moving your cat elsewhere. As a trusted cat sitter Abbeydale families rely on, I focus on maintaining your cat’s normal routine with minimal disruption. My role as a pet sitter is to ensure every visit is stress-free.
Whether you live in a Victorian terrace near the Abbeydale Picture House or a family home closer to the Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet, I am familiar with every corner of this community. Being active across the S7 and S17 postcodes means I am often nearby, providing reliable care for cats living along the busy Abbeydale Road corridor and its quieter residential side streets.
What A Cat Sitting Visit Includes
Each visit is structured around your cat’s individual needs. A typical cat sitting visit covers:
Feeding at the usual times with fresh water
Litter tray cleaning and replenishing
Playtime, cuddles, and one-to-one attention
Photos and videos sent via the free mobile app
A full visit report so you know exactly what happened
As your pet sitter, I also take care of small practical tasks around your home, like watering plants, collecting mail, and taking out the rubbish. These extras help your property look lived-in while you are away.
Why Home Visits Suit Most Cats Better Than A Cattery
Cat boarding and catteries can work for some cats, but many find the experience stressful. Unfamiliar smells, strange cats nearby, and a disrupted routine can cause anxiety, loss of appetite, and behavioural changes.
In-home cat sitting removes all of that. Your cat stays where they feel most secure. They sleep in their favourite spot, eat from their own bowls, and follow the same daily pattern they are used to. For nervous or anxious cats especially, this makes a significant difference.
Support For Indoor Cats And Cats In A Flat
If your cat lives indoors or you keep a cat in a flat, home visits are particularly well suited. Indoor cats rely heavily on their environment for comfort and enrichment. I make sure they get the interaction, stimulation, and care they need during each visit, including dedicated playtime with their favourite toys.
Cat Sitting Prices And Visit Options
I keep my pricing straightforward so there are no surprises.
15-Minute And 30-Minute Visit Pricing
Visit Length | Price Per Visit |
|---|---|
15 minutes | £14 |
30 minutes | £20 |
These prices are per visit, not per cat. If you have more than one cat, the same visit fee applies.
Typical Daily Visit Schedules
For most cats, I recommend two visits per day. This keeps feeding times consistent and gives your cat regular company and attention. Visit times are arranged around your cat’s existing routine, whether that means a morning and evening call or a different schedule that suits their habits.
What To Expect From Daily Updates
After every single visit, I send daily updates through my free mobile app. Each update includes photos, videos, and a written report covering what your cat ate, how they seemed, and what we got up to together. You will never be left wondering how things are going at home.
If you would like to book or simply have a chat about what your cat needs, I offer a free 30-minute meet and greet with absolutely no obligation. Give me a call for a friendly conversation about your cat’s care.
Why Choose K9 Time For Cat Sitting
40+ Years Of Cat Care Experience With Derek
I have spent more than 40 years caring for pets of all kinds. That experience means I can read a cat’s body language, spot early signs of illness or discomfort, and adapt my approach to suit each individual animal. Whether your cat is confident and sociable or shy and cautious, I know how to build trust and provide the right level of care.
Reiki-Informed Care For Nervous, Reactive, Or Senior Cats
I am a certified Third Degree Master Practitioner in the Usui system of Reiki healing. This training helps me work calmly and intuitively with cats who are nervous, reactive, or elderly. Reiki principles guide my approach to creating a gentle, stress-free environment during every visit. Senior cats and those with anxiety respond particularly well to this calm, patient energy.
Insured, DBS Checked, Police Checked, And First Aid Trained
Your trust matters to me, which is why I maintain full professional credentials. I am:
Fully insured
DBS checked
Police checked
Trained in canine and pet first aid
These checks and qualifications are in place to protect both your pet and your home.
NarpsUK Membership And Professional Standards
I am a member of NarpsUK, the National Association of Registered Petsitters. This membership reflects my commitment to maintaining professional standards in the pet care industry. It provides an additional layer of accountability and gives you confidence that I operate to a recognised code of practice.
How I Tailor Visits To Your Cat And Home Routine
Every cat is different, and so is every household. As a pet sitter, I make it my priority to adapt each visit to suit your cat’s personality and your home setup. Finding the right cat sitter Abbeydale has to offer means choosing someone who understands their needs.
Feeding, Fresh Water, Litter Tray Care, And Playtime
I follow your cat’s feeding schedule precisely, using the food and portions you specify. Fresh water is provided at every visit. Litter trays are cleaned and replenished each time I come. I also set aside time for play and affection, using your cat’s own toys to keep things familiar and fun.
Photos And Videos Through The Free Mobile App
The free mobile app is one of the things my clients appreciate most. After each visit, you receive photos, video clips, and a written summary. You can see exactly what your cat has been doing, how much they have eaten, and how they are behaving. It takes the worry out of being away.
Practical Home Help While You Are Away
Alongside caring for your cat, I offer complementary home support during my visits. This includes:
Watering plants
Collecting post and parcels
Taking out rubbish and recycling
Regular visits at consistent times also help your home look occupied, adding a layer of security while you are away.
Areas I Cover Around Abbeydale
Abbeydale And Nearby Sheffield Postcodes
I provide cat sitting across Abbeydale and the wider south-west Sheffield area.
Looking for pet care outside of Abvbeydale? Check my full Areas We Cover page to see everywhere I travel in Sheffield.
If your area is not listed, get in touch and I will let you know if I can help.
Booking A Free Meet And Greet
I offer a free 30-minute meet and greet before any service begins. There is no obligation at all. During this visit, I meet your cat, learn their routine, take note of any dietary or medical needs, and answer all of your questions. It is the best way to make sure you feel confident in the care I provide.
How To Find The Right Cat Sitter In Abbeydale
Choosing the right pet sitter to look after your cat while you are away is a big decision. Here are some practical tips to help you find a cat sitter in Abbeydale who is the right fit.
Questions To Ask Before You Book
Before committing, ask any potential sitter:
Are you insured, and do you have a DBS check?
How many years of experience do you have with cats?
Will I receive updates during each visit?
What happens if my cat becomes unwell?
Do you belong to a professional body like NarpsUK?
A good cat sitter should be happy to answer all of these openly.
When To Arrange Visits For Holidays Or Work Trips
For holiday periods like Christmas, Easter, and summer, book as early as possible. These are the busiest times for cat sitters across Sheffield. For regular work trips, setting up a consistent schedule means your cat quickly gets used to the arrangement, making each absence less disruptive.
How To Find A Cat Sitter Who Matches Your Cat
Not every sitter suits every cat. Look for someone who takes the time to understand your cat’s personality, whether they are bold and sociable or nervous and reserved. A proper meet and greet is essential. It gives your cat a chance to meet the sitter on their own territory and helps the sitter tailor their approach from the first visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a cat sitter typically charge per hour in my area?
Cat sitting rates in Sheffield generally range from around £12 to £25 per hour depending on experience and the level of care provided. My visits at K9 Time are priced at £14 for 15 minutes and £20 for 30 minutes, reflecting the personalised, professional service I deliver across Abbeydale.
What is a reasonable daily rate for looking after a cat at home?
With two visits per day, which is the schedule I typically recommend, the daily cost with K9 Time comes to between £28 and £40 depending on whether you choose 15-minute or 30-minute visits. This covers feeding, fresh water, litter tray care, playtime, and full photo and video updates.
How much should I expect to pay for someone to look after my cat for four days?
Based on two 30-minute visits per day at £20 each, four days of cat sitting with K9 Time would cost £160. If you prefer shorter 15-minute check-ins at £14 each, the four-day total would be £112. I am always happy to discuss options that suit your cat’s needs and your budget.
What services are usually included in a cat-sitting visit (feeding, litter tray, playtime)?
My cat sitting visits include feeding at your cat’s usual times, providing fresh water, cleaning and replenishing the litter tray, playtime, and plenty of fuss and attention. I also send photos, videos, and a written report after every visit through my free mobile app, plus I take care of small tasks like watering plants and collecting post.
Is it better to use in-home cat sitting or a cattery for a short trip away?
For most cats, in-home sitting is the less stressful option. Cats are creatures of habit and tend to cope much better when they stay in their own environment with their familiar sights, smells, and routines. A cattery can be suitable for very sociable cats, but home visits avoid the disruption of travel and unfamiliar surroundings entirely.
How do I find a trustworthy, insured cat sitter nearby with good reviews?
Start by checking that any sitter you consider is fully insured, DBS checked, and a member of a recognised professional body. I am all of these, including NarpsUK membership. I also offer a free 30-minute meet and greet so you can see exactly how I work before making any commitment. As an experienced pet sitter, I am here to help. Call me for a friendly, no-obligation chat about your cat’s care and booking your cat sitter Abbeydale.