Whenever I visit friends and family, their pet(s) tend to decide that I'm their favourite visitor as I give them the attention they seek for and spend much of my visit pampering with them. They very much enjoy my visits and hope your pets will too. I personally have cats of my own and sometimes take care of other family member's dog and cat.
My experience with:
Cats:
I have two cats of my own, understanding their personality to know how to play with them has been the best part of owning cats. I can deal with cats who like scratching. I have also dealt with a cat and dog in the same house.
Small dogs:
I have taken care of a dachshund and poodle before. Both dogs like growling at people. Both are very attention seeking dogs who would do anything to start barking at the door or come to you....