Hi, I’m Alaina! I’m a freelance social science researcher with a degree in Zoology, specialising in Animal Behaviour and a PhD in Anthropology. My academic and professional background means I bring a unique blend of scientific understanding, keen observational skills, and deep empathy to pet care, along with a love of all animals, but cats are my main love! I am Disclosure Scotland checked, highly detail-oriented, and fully accustomed to handling environments with the utmost care, confidentiality, and respect. Feline Expertise & Special Needs: Cats thrive on subtle communication and predictable routines. My interest in animal behaviour, combined with extensive personal experience caring for cats with complex needs, means your feline companions are in expert hands. At 51, I have lived with and loved many cats throughout my life, currently in my own multi-cat household of four (a mix of Maine Coons and rescues), I actively manage: Medication & Nervous Conditions: Experience administering daily medications (such as Gabapentin for anxious/nervous cats), antibiotics for infections and other oral medications. Special Diets & Medical Needs: Managing strict, separated feeding routines (e.g., IBS diets or kidney safe diets), as well as senior, infirm, blind, and diabetic care (in years gone past). Happy to discuss any special diets or needs. Behavioural Sensitivity: Using evidence-based engagement with cats which can vary from energetic play and petting, or just slow blinking and gentle words across the room – whatever suits the needs and personality of each cat, especially to help shy or stressed cats feel safe and know they are being looked after. Whether your cat needs gentle, patient companionship, precise medical routines, or high-energy play, I adapt my approach entirely to their personality - I will ask you lots of questions about your cat and their routine in advance to help me understand them before i even meet them. You’ll receive updates and photos daily, so you don’t have to worry while you are away and have complete peace of mind. Drop me a message to arrange a complimentary meet-and-greet and I look forward to meeting you and your cats!