Volunteer > Foster a cat > Foster FAQs
These are some common questions about fostering cats with us to help you understand the process and decide if it’s right for you.
1. What kind of space do I need to be able to foster?
You will need a quiet room to house the cat/kitten initially. This allows a safe space for your new foster cat/kitten to adjust and gives time to determine the cat’s health before exposing the foster’s permanent animals to the foster cat/kitten.
2. Is the foster parent responsible for buying food and other day-to-day expenses?
Foster parents are responsible for daily expenses such as food, blankets, toys, litter etc. CRN sometimes receives donations of these items and provides them to fosters when available.
3. Are foster parents responsible for veterinary care?
CRN will pay for all medical expenses for the cat/kitten through our veterinarians. It is best if you have a vehicle to transport your foster cat/kitten to vet appointments, although we will try to arrange a volunteer driver if not.
4. How do potential adopters meet the foster animals if CRN does not have a facility?
CRN volunteers work with foster parents and potential adopters to set up a ‘meet and greet’ at the convenience of both. Most meetings occur virtually.
5. How long would a foster animal remain in my home?
All foster cats/kittens remain in foster care until they are adopted. The period for fostering varies for every animal. The fostering period for pregnant mothers, newborn kittens and feral cats may be longer than for other fosters (friendly, healthy adult cats). Rescued cats usually remain in one foster home until they get adopted.
6. What kind of cat/kitten will I foster?
We consider a foster’s interests, level of experience, schedule, home set-up and current pets when suggesting a foster cat/kitten to a prospective foster family. Some cats may be ill or timid, which will take more time and investment from the foster family. All foster placements are done in collaboration with the foster family.
7. What are the benefits of fostering?
In addition to the satisfaction of helping a cat in need and giving them a new lease on life, foster parents work with other foster volunteers as part of a team. Fostering also provides flexibility, allowing foster parents to take care of a cat if they cannot commit to owning one.