Foster Homes: A Call to Action
Everyday, more and more cats are in need of a foster home so they can escape life on the streets. We are seeing an increase in abandonment cases, and with cooler weather approaching, we are seeing an unprecedented demand for warm and safe spaces for animals to live until they are adopted.
Regina Cat Rescue (RCR) doesn’t operate a shelter, instead we rely on foster homes to care for cats and kittens until they find their forever homes. We would love to rescue every stray cat we come across, but unfortunately, we are limited by the number of volunteer foster homes we have. By opening your heart and your home to foster cats and kittens you are providing a safe space where they can grow and heal while waiting for their forever family. It’s more than just “fostering” - it’s providing the opportunity for a better life for an abandoned or stray pet.
If you are interested in fostering but still have questions, keep reading!
Do I have to pay for supplies out of my own pocket? Food, litter, vet bills, etc.
No! RCR can provide food, litter and a bed for your foster cat if you need supplies. Vet bills are always taken care of by RCR, you will never have to worry about paying for medical bills out of your own pocket.
How long will I have to take care of the foster cat/kitten?
Sometimes an animal will be adopted within a matter of weeks, and sometimes it takes several months. We have found that fostering animals in a home greatly reduces their stress levels and helps RCR to get to know the animal better. We are able to tell prospective adopters exactly what kind of personality the animal has and who they would do best with as a forever home.
I don’t have enough room in my house/apartment. I don’t think I can foster.
Do you have a spare bedroom? An office? A bathroom? A small space to you could be a palace to a cat in need.
I already have a cat/dog and they don’t get along with other cats. I don’t think I can foster.
If you are concerned about your resident cat not getting along with your foster, that’s okay! It’s unlikely that cats will immediately get along, but as long as you have a space to keep them separated, that’s all they need. Check out this article for tips on fostering kittens or this article for tips on how to integrate a foster into your home if you have animals or small children.
Okay, I’m thinking about it. What do I need to prepare so my foster cat feels comfortable?
First, make sure that they have their own dedicated space and all the essentials they need. A small, quiet area, away from people and other animals, will help your new foster cat feel safe and get comfortable more quickly. The less “newness” they’re forced to interact with in those first few days, the less stress and anxiety they’re likely to feel. You can read more about how to set up a space for your foster here.
Who can I contact to find out more about fostering?
You can read more about our programs here, including who to contact to become a foster to an animal in need.
I am unable to foster, but I’d still like to contribute. What are my options?
There are so many ways to get involved with Regina Cat Rescue! Check out this link to see all the options available to you.
