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Foster
Every volunteer foster parent that opens their heart and home allows us to save a life. Friendly adoptable cats that are left on the street to fend for themselves are in great risk of being harmed and abused. Cats and kittens sitting in overcrowded shelters are at risk of getting sick and being euthanized for space. Our foster homes give them the chance at the life they deserve.
How To Become A Foster
You must be 21 years of age or older
All members of the household must agree upon fostering
Any animals in the household must be current with their medical vetting
Must provide proof that pets are allowed
What Do We Provide To The
Foster
Home?
We provide each foster home with all the necessary starter supplies they need if desired (food, litter, litter boxes, bedding, treats, toys, and crate), unless the foster home would like to provide these as an in kind gift. We also cover all the medical care costs for all of our cats & kittens from our approved Veterinarian partners. Lastly, you never have to worry about feeling alone, our Foster mentors are easily accessible to you for all of your questions, concerns and to guide you on anything & everything.
What Do
Foster
Parents Provide?
A cat foster parent provides a caring and temporary home for cats & kittens in need. They offer shelter, love, patience, and attention to feline friends who may be recovering from illness, trauma, or simply in search of a forever home. Foster parents ensure the cats' physical and emotional well-being, provide nourishing meals, a safe environment, and social interaction. Their dedication helps these cats build trust, heal, and prepare for adoption into loving families, offering them a second chance at a happy and secure life.
How Long Do I Have To
Foster
For?
The duration of cat fostering can vary widely and depends on the individual cat's circumstances. Fostering commitments can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the cat's needs and the specific goals of the fostering arrangement. Some cats may require short-term care for medical recovery or socialization, while others might need a longer stay for behavioral rehabilitation or until they find a suitable forever home. Ultimately, the length of fostering is typically determined by the individual cat's needs & situation and the length of time the foster parent can commit to.
Fostering an animal is a compassionate and rewarding way to make a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable animals. By opening your home to a foster pet, you provide them with a safe haven, love, and care during their time of need. Fostering also helps reduce overcrowding in shelters, freeing up resources and space for more animals. It's an opportunity to nurture an animal back to health, offer socialization, and prepare them for a loving forever home. Fostering can be an enriching experience that brings joy, fulfillment, and a sense of purpose, knowing you've made a significant difference in an animal's life.
Where do your cats come from?
Our cats come from a variety of sources, including owner surrenders, strays, rescue missions, and from overcrowded facilities or emergency situations here in Chicago.
Do I have to keep my pets separated from the cat(s) I'm fostering?
There are a few guidelines that we ask foster families to adhere to regarding their personal pets. While foster cats playing with other pets is often fine, we ask that you make sure that before fostering that all of your personal pets are healthy and up-to-date on their medical. We also advise that you wait until after a 2 week ISO separation period (or longer if the foster pet is sick). Cats and little kittens in shelters are very susceptible to illness and kittens have low immune systems. **IMPORTANT NOTE: If, for any reason, your personal pet becomes ill while you are fostering, we cannot provide medical care for your personal pet.
How much time do I need to spend with my foster cat(s)?
As much time as you can! With that said, the amount of time will vary depending on the energy level and needs of the cat you are fostering. It is ideal to spend around at lest two hours a day socializing and playing with your foster cat(s) to ensure that he or she receives adequate attention and stimulation. Don't forget YOU"RE fostering the cat which means you need to be hands on, don't leave it up to your cats!
One thing stopping me from fostering is saying goodbye, won't it be hard?
Saying goodbye is definitely one of the saddest parts of fostering, but keep in mind that there are many more cats and kittens needing wonderful foster homes like yours. Remember, you are playing a crucial role in saving their lives. You get to be a part of their journey to their forever happy ending and without you they wouldn't have that.
What if I have no experience?
That's okay! Our Foster mentors are here to guide you and teach you all the skills that you need. However, the top things you need to provide is a safe, loving, comfortable, and patient home, We'll help you with the rest!
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