House sitting can be a dream job—free accommodation, adorable pets, and the chance to experience new places. But as with any responsibility, things can go wrong if not handled properly. From unexpected pet mishaps to nightmarish home disasters, house sitting horror stories can serve as valuable lessons for both sitters and homeowners. In this post, we’ll explore some real (or inspired-by-real-events) house sitting horror stories and how you can avoid finding yourself in a similar situation.

1. The Mysterious Disappearing Cat

The Horror
A house sitter arrived at a beautiful home with instructions to care for a shy indoor cat. On the second day, the cat was nowhere to be found. Panicked, the sitter searched the house top to bottom, thinking the worst—had the cat escaped? The homeowner was unreachable, leaving the sitter to frantically call neighbours and put up missing pet posters. Hours later, the cat emerged from inside a couch where it had been hiding all along.

How to Avoid It:  Always ask homeowners about common pet hiding spots.
– Keep all doors and windows securely shut.
– Have emergency contact numbers, including a local vet, on hand.

2. The Unexpected Guest (or Ghost?)

The Horror
A sitter was enjoying a quiet night in when they heard footsteps upstairs. Knowing the homeowner was away, their heart raced as they grabbed a flashlight. After calling the police, they discovered it wasn’t a ghost or burglar—but the homeowner’s forgetful brother who had a spare key and had come to crash for the night!

How to Avoid It:
– Clarify with homeowners if anyone else has access to the property.
– Request a full list of expected visitors.
– Keep emergency numbers ready in case of suspicious activity.

3. The Destructive Dog

The Horror:
A house sitter was looking after a seemingly well-behaved golden retriever. However, when left alone for an hour, the dog developed severe separation anxiety, chewing through furniture, shoes, and even a door frame. The sitter was left with an anxious dog and a hefty damage bill.

How to Avoid It:
– Discuss any pet behaviour issues in detail with the homeowner.
– Stick to the pet’s routine as closely as possible.
– Use calming techniques, such as leaving on music or providing enrichment toys.
– If a pet exhibits distress, consult a vet or trainer for advice.

4. The Power Outage Nightmare

During a summer house sit, a severe storm knocked out power for two days. With no backup plan, the sitter was left with a dead phone, spoiled food in the fridge, and no way to contact the homeowner.

How to Avoid It:

• Ask about emergency protocols before the homeowners leave.
• Know where flashlights, candles, and emergency supplies are stored.
• Keep your phone charged and have an alternative power source (like a power bank).
• Be aware of local weather risks and have a plan in case of prolonged outages

5. The Overly Attached Neighbour

The Horror:
A friendly neighbour checked in on the sitter and, seeing them alone, decided to make daily visits—offering advice, asking for favours, and even inviting themselves in unannounced. The sitter felt uncomfortable but didn’t know how to set boundaries.

How to Avoid It:
– Set clear boundaries from the start—politely but firmly.
– Let the homeowner know if a neighbour becomes intrusive.
– Always prioritise safety and report any concerning behaviour.

Final Thoughts: Learn from the Nightmares!

House sitting horror stories may be rare, but they do happen. The best way to avoid them is through thorough preparation, clear communication with homeowners, and staying proactive in unexpected situations.

If you’re considering house sitting, join Responsible House Sitters to access vetted opportunities, helpful resources, and a community of trusted sitters. With the right precautions, house sitting can be a smooth, enjoyable experience—free of nightmares!

Ready to start your house sitting journey the responsible way? Sign up today!