More Singapore households have dogs or cats. Here is what MDWs need to know to handle pet care with confidence.
Pets are family in many Singapore homes. About one in three households here has a dog or cat, and that number has been climbing steadily since 2020. If you are a domestic worker joining a home with pets, understanding the basics is not a bonus skill — it is quickly becoming a core one.
Start with a proper handover
Before an employer leaves for work on day one, ask for a written note or voice message covering the pet's routine. What time does the dog eat? What brand of food? Does the cat have a medical condition? Knowing this protects the pet and protects you. If something goes wrong and you followed clear instructions, you are in a much stronger position.
Feeding is more important than it looks
Overfeeding is one of the most common mistakes. Many pets gain weight quietly and owners notice months later. Stick to the portions and schedule your employer sets. Do not supplement with table scraps unless you have been told it is fine. Some human foods — grapes, onions, chocolate — are genuinely toxic to dogs and cats. This is not an exaggeration.
Recognise signs of distress early
You do not need a veterinary degree to notice when something is off. A dog that refuses food, vomits more than once, or is unusually still deserves attention. A cat that stops using its litter tray may have a urinary problem. Flag it to your employer early. Waiting too long often makes treatment more complicated and more expensive.
Grooming and hygiene basics
Short-haired dogs and cats generally need less grooming than long-haired breeds. But all pets need regular ear checks and clean water daily. If you are asked to bathe a dog at home, use only pet shampoo — human shampoo can irritate their skin. For cats, most do not need baths at all unless a vet recommends it.
Your safety matters too
If a pet is aggressive or unpredictable, say so. You are not being difficult. An employer who understands the situation can arrange training, a muzzle during certain tasks, or clearer boundaries. You should never feel that managing an unsafe animal is simply part of the job.
Employers can help by creating a simple pet-care guide during onboarding. Workers who understand what is expected are more confident, and confident carers are better carers for everyone in the household — including the animals.
At Anisya, we believe good matches between workers and households include understanding the full picture of what home life looks like. That includes the four-legged members.