Plus, you can raise their chances by posting all of their sweetest, funniest moments on social media—one of your followers could be your foster cat’s forever home!
When the time comes, saying goodbye to your foster cat can be tough. It helps to remember that you did an amazing thing—you helped a sweet cat find its forever home! If you’re worried, ask your foster cat’s new foster family if they’d be willing to send you photo and video updates. That way, you can stay connected and see how all of your hard work paid off.
Call in and ask if you’d rather know beforehand—the shelter’s foster coordinator can provide the answers you need regarding cost. Keep in mind that even if your shelter does cover all standard costs, you’ll probably want to spoil your fur friend the second you meet them. Remember to budget for extra toys!
Some shelters offer permanent/hospice foster situations and others might stick to standard, short-term arrangements. Make sure your pick suits your schedule. On top of that, every institution will have it’s own policies and requirements. Before you proceed, call into your shelter to make sure their expectations align with yours.
Note that some shelters may ask you to pay an application fee.
Note that some shelters may require you to complete a background check or submit personal references.
Note that some shelters may ask you to watch a video and pass a quiz. [12] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source
Be on the lookout for signs that your cat needs emergency help. This could be broken bones, trouble standing, or difficulty breathing. In all likelihood, you’ll have reviewed an emergency medicine protocol with your shelter, so you’ll know exactly what to do.
Eye discharge Sneezing Hair loss Loss of appetite Diarrhea Vomiting
Sitting with your cat during meals is a great way to bond and build trust with them. [17] X Research source
Cleaning the litter box every day can help minimize odors. One of the benefits of fostering an adult cat is that they’re likely already trained with their litter box—but not necessarily. Speak to your shelter about your cat’s history using the litter box and remember, patience will be a must if you’re looking to foster a furry friend. Note that if you buy clay litter, you may only need to clean the box once every 2 weeks.
At a minimum, aim for 2-3 20 minute social visits with your foster cat per day. This means petting, cuddles, and scratches. Then, use toys to play with your cat 1-2 times per day. Give your cat plenty of space, treats, and reassurance if they’re shy. [20] X Research source
If you have more than one can in your home, aim to have separate food and water bowls for every animal. Grab a few toys that cats can’t swallow, that way you can leave them in the room with your cat during the day (ping pong balls are a great option!). If you’re having trouble getting your cat to sleep in their cat bed, ask your shelter for a blanket or toy your cat has used before. Lay it in your cat bed. This way, the bed’s scent will be more familiar. Ask the shelter for advice and recommendations if you’re not sure where to start. Make sure that your cat has plenty of environmental enrichment as you set up their living space! This includes quiet places to rest, multiple soft beds, high places to explore, scratching devices, food puzzles, toys, and treats. [21] X Research source
Block outlets and take care of electrical wires Remove items that a cat could swallow, like string or buttons Put away your house plants, because many are toxic to cats Block small holes where your cat could get stuck Close aquarium and animal cages Secure window latches Remove breakable items—especially those sitting on shelves Put away medications and lotions Keep toilet lids closed
