It's commendable that you want to help out your neighbor by taking care of her cat and cleaning up a little while she's away. However, since you don't know your neighbor well, it's essential to approach the situation with sensitivity and respect for her personal space and belongings.
Here are some guidelines to follow:
Stick to Cat-related Responsibilities: Focus on the primary reason you're helping—taking care of the cat. Ensure the cat is fed, has fresh water, a clean litter box, and any specific care instructions provided by your neighbor.
Ask for Permission: If you want to do some cleaning beyond cat-related tasks, it's best to ask your neighbor for permission first. You can send a polite message or speak with her directly, expressing your willingness to help and asking if there are any specific areas you can tidy up or chores you can assist with.
Respect Boundaries: Respect your neighbor's personal space and belongings. Avoid going through drawers, cabinets, or personal items, as this may be invasive and make your neighbor uncomfortable.
Maintain Privacy: While you're taking care of the cat, be mindful of your neighbor's privacy. Avoid inviting others into her home or discussing her absence with people who don't need to know.
Leave Things as You Found Them: If you do receive permission to clean, make sure you leave things as you found them. Put items back where they belong, and avoid making any significant changes to the setup or organization of the house.
Keep Communication Open: Throughout your neighbor's absence, maintain open communication with her. If you encounter any issues or have questions, reach out to her to ensure you're meeting her expectations.
Be Responsible: While in charge of her home and cat, take responsibility for any accidental damages that might occur during your time there.
In summary, it's considerate to offer help, but since you don't know your neighbor well, it's best to approach the situation cautiously. Focus primarily on the cat's care, ask for permission before doing any additional cleaning, and always respect your neighbor's personal space and privacy. Open communication and responsible actions will go a long way in fostering a positive relationship with your neighbor.