Twin Sisters Swap Chalkboards for Cat Care as they launch their The Cat Butler Business in Derby

What did life look like for you before you joined The Cat Butler

We have both been Primary school teachers for over 20 years and after reaching a big milestone birthday we felt some big changes were on the horizon. Jo returned to Derbyshire in July 2022, after teaching in Dubai for 13 years when her sons started sixth form and university. Clare was also ready for a change after teaching 10 year olds for 20 years. 

Why cat sitting?

We genuinely believe that cats are so much happier at home whilst their owners are away and it is important that they remain in a familiar environment with their routine in place. We want to look after other people's cats and homes as if they were our own.

Tell us about your feline family

From our pet cat, Fluff, who joined our family when we were three years old, to our current fur babies, we have always been firm feline fans. Clare has Molly, a ragdoll cross age 8 and Bluebell, a Maine Coon cross age 6. Jo has Pearl, a Russian Blue, age 12 who also travelled from Dubai last year and has adapted exceptionally well to the Derbyshire climate. 

What was it about The Cat Butler that appealed to you?

We had been cat sitting part time and loving every minute but never dreamt it would be a viable option as a full time profession. After coming across The Cat Butler on Facebook, that all changed! Although dedicated cat carers, we did not have much experience in the business world so buying a franchise with all the support, help and guidance from Sandra  (Franchisor) was the obvious choice for us. The whole process has been very straightforward and we have been so impressed with the quality of the training, marketing materials and the website. It’s a dream come true for us to own our own business caring for cats and we can’t wait to get started.

What does the future hold?

We want The Cat Butler Derby to be a massive success and become a household name for cat owners in our area. We are excited to meet new people and of course to serve our furry friends in true The Cat Butler professionalism and style. 

We are also interested in becoming involved in cat-related charity work, and experts in cat behaviour and psychology. We are keen to expand our team and would love to employ Cat Butlers who are as committed and passionate as we are!

Clare and Joanne will be launching The Cat Butler Derby on 24th July 2023 and serving feline customers in Derby, Ilkeston, Belper, Ripley and Heanor.

The Cat Butler Franchise

If you would like more information on becoming a franchisee with The Cat Butler, fill in our short form below to request a brochure and learn more about our unique cat care franchise opportunity.

Our franchise brochure gives you plenty of industry insights and, in particular, a useful comparison between joining a franchise or going it alone.

Sandra James

Owner & Founder

The Cat Butler was set up by Sandra James in recognition of the fact that a stay in a cattery can be unsettling for many cats and also their owners.