Thanks for the update @catsdogs - it’s right that the owner addresses all of the pets health issues accurately and realistically in their listing, so that future potential sitters aren’t caught unawares.
You did the right thing by having an in person visit to assess the reality of situation for yourself and listening to those warning flags that made you uncomfortable.
TrustedHouseSitters is a platform for mutual exchange . No member ( home owner or sitter ) is obligated to put up with situations that make them uncomfortable.
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Re heating - it’s pretty normal for many people not to heat their bedrooms. My parents never did either, and I also don’t. Which I think is fine since winter hasn’t even started yet, so at least in W Europe it’s not very cold yet and bedrooms are just for sleeping for me - so the main requirement for me is sufficient duvets, blankets etc! Of course, it’s normal to heat the main living areas.
I agree that in the UK and other parts of W Europe heating is probably at a different level to other parts of the world. And more so since the cost of living crisis with the massive increases in gas/electricity charges.
I have never, in my own homes or on UK sits had heating on through the night. It has always been timed to go off around 19/10pm. I do like bedrooms to be heated when the heating is on (early evening) just to keep them dry/aired and to prevent condensation and mould building up. Most modern homes should have double glazing & decent insulation to keep them warm without having to have the heating on all day. However that is not always the case for older UK properties!
The weather is warm here for the time of year but if you hail from Texas or Brisbane you are going to find some houses a tad chilly here if doing winter sits.
I love my thermals, not terribly glam but definitely saved my sanity and a HO’s fuel bill on occasion! Also great for walking the dogs along with my very warm coat, hat and gloves! One day I will get to chase the sun for winter sits! 
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