A cat lover! Someone who will give them the full TLC they need while I am away! They are not difficult and lead their life, but a constant presence in the house gives them the stability and comfort they need.
I have 4 cats - the one in the picture is the princess of the house, Nejma, then there is "Mr Blue", Hammy and finally the new addition Beanie. They will need feeding constantly and require cuddles. You will also need to know how to be a good door keeper - because of course they want to come in and go out all the time ;)
My house is terraced house and is a typical red-brick, narrow building for the north of France. There is a little garden at the back and this is my green haven. The street itself is averagely busy so the cats are not allowed out there and only in the garden.
I am ideally placed, just 25 minutes walk from Lille town centre. The two train stations are not far either. So access is easy for anyone arriving by train or bus.
The stairs are a challenge in this house, so anyone who hates or can't do stairs - be warned!
Three cats are quite a challenge too. They get up early and need feeding and watering otherwise they come and miaouw you death! Also keeping the hair coverage of clothes and furniture to a minimum is not always fun.
No, sorry.
Testimonials
Meows Of Approval @ La Madeleine
I spent three weeks at Helen's flat and house sat for two and a half with Nejma, Hammy, Mr. Blue and Filou. Vieille Lille and Centre Ville are quite close to La Madeleine by bike or bus. There are shops and supermarkets nearby and a market within 10 min walking. The entire area is rather quiet and the neighbors were rather helpful to a tall stranger from Canada! Besides keeping things tidy and locked up day & night, this was a perfect starting gig for my first house sitting adventure. Helen was very helpful, informative, organized and understanding and expects that things are taken care of and that her fur babies are fed, looked after and snuggled (particularly Mr. Blue - quite the affectionate little bugger!). She even took me and her other tenant out to Boulogne sur mer for a relaxing picnic and beach stroll (& swim) before taking us to Cap Blanc-Nez along the coast. Truly is a wonderful host who wants the best for everyone. Mission Accomplished - Many Thanks Helen, Zakir & the four-legged La Madeleine Mafia!
Marcus, Canada, August 2025