Beginner's Guide to Cat Fostering

Whether you're a seasoned animal lover or new to the world of pet care, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to understand the importance and rewards of fostering stray and feral cats.

Why Do Stray and Feral Cats Need Fostering What’s in It for the Fosterer? How to Get Started with Fostering a Cat Foster Cat Stories Rescue Directory

Why Do Stray and Feral Cats Need Fostering?

Saving Lives

In the UK, the issue of stray and feral cats is significant, with thousands of cats in urgent need of help. According to Cats Protection, over 250,000 cats are taken in by rescues each year. Many of these cats are at risk of being euthanized due to overcrowded shelters. Fostering provides a vital lifeline, offering these cats a chance to be rehomed and reducing the number of cats euthanized.

Addressing the Cat Crisis in London

London is experiencing a severe "cat crisis," with increasing numbers of stray and feral cats due to factors such as irresponsible breeding, abandonment, and a surge in cat ownership during the COVID-19 pandemic. Areas like Walthamstow, Leyton, and Leytonstone are hotspots for abandoned cats. Fostering helps address this crisis by providing a safe haven for these cats, giving them a second chance at life.

Alleviating Shelter Overcrowding

Shelters and rescue centres in London often struggle with capacity, particularly during the peak kitten season from April to late Autumn. By fostering, you help reduce the strain on these facilities, allowing them to rescue and care for more cats in need. Your temporary care can make a significant difference in managing the influx of cats during these busy periods.

Combating Health Issues

Fostering helps combat the spread of diseases among the stray cat population. Stray and feral cats face threats from Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and other health issues due to poor living conditions and lack of medical care. By fostering, you ensure these cats receive necessary medical attention and a healthier environment, reducing the spread of diseases.

Socialization and Rehabilitation

Many stray and feral cats have never experienced human kindness. Fostering offers a safe environment for these cats to acclimate to human interaction and home life. This socialization is crucial for increasing their chances of being adopted. Older cats or those needing rehabilitation, who might otherwise be overlooked in shelters, especially benefit from the focused attention they receive in a foster home.

Supporting Shelter Staff and Volunteers

Shelter workers and volunteers are dedicated to protecting and caring for stray cats, but they often face significant stress due to the high demands of their roles. By fostering, you provide much-needed relief and support to these hardworking individuals, helping them continue their essential work in the community.

By opening your home to a foster cat, you play a critical role in the London-wide effort to manage and care for its stray and feral cat population. Your compassion and dedication can transform the lives of these cats, giving them hope and a chance for a better future.

What’s In It for the Fosterer?

The joy of fostering is immense - just anyone who has fostered a cat before.
Fostering offers flexibility that adoption does not. You can choose short-term or long-term fostering, depending on your availability and lifestyle. Veterinary costs are usually covered by the fostering organization, making it a cost-effective way to help.
Fostering can also be therapeutic. The companionship and unconditional love of a cat can significantly improve mental well-being. Many fosterers find that the routine and purpose provided by caring for an animal help reduce stress and anxiety.
Fostering supports shelter workers and rescue volunteers who face tremendous stress in their roles. Providing a temporary home for a cat helps these workers focus on their mission of saving lives.

How to Get Started with Fostering a Cat

1. Evaluate Your Situation

First, consider your schedule and emotional readiness. Fostering requires daily attention and can be emotionally challenging, especially when it's time to say goodbye to your foster cat. However, the rewards far outweigh these challenges.

2. Contact Local Shelters or Rescues

Reach out to local shelters or rescue organizations to learn about their foster programs. Each organization has its guidelines and processes. They will likely ask you to fill out a fostering application and may offer orientation and training sessions. Check out our directory of rescue shelters and organizations that facilitate cat fostering

3. Prepare Your Home

Make sure your home is ready for a foster cat. This includes having a quiet space for the cat to acclimate, ensuring your current pets are up-to-date on vaccinations, and preparing for any necessary veterinary visits.

4. Support and Resources

You'll receive plenty of support from the shelter or rescue organization. This includes covering veterinary costs, providing food and supplies, and offering guidance on caring for your foster cat.

Final Thoughts:

Fostering a cat is a rewarding experience that benefits both the animals and the fosterers. You’ll provide a loving, temporary home for a cat in need, help reduce shelter overcrowding, and support the community of shelter workers and volunteers. Plus, you'll gain joy, fulfillment, and even potential mental health benefits.

If you're ready to take the next step, contact your local shelter or rescue today Fill out an application, prepare your home, and get ready to make a significant difference in a cat's life. Remember, fostering not only saves lives but also enriches yours in ways you might never have imagined.