Becoming a Neonatal Foster

Fostering neonatal kittens requires dedication, compassion, and a bit of training. Don't worry- we'll teach you everything you'll need to know!

Some basic requirements for our fosters:

• Live within 60 minutes of us, or sign an out-of-area waiver. 

• Be willing and able to feed your foster kitties on a set schedule, which varies depending on the kittens' age:  

  • • • Every 2 to 4 hours, with one longer 3 to 6 hour break overnight (kittens who are under ~3.5 weeks old and being fed formula), with newborns needing to be fed more frequently than kittens who are almost ready to transition from formula to kitten food 

      • Every 4 to 8 hours, with one longer 8 hour break overnight (kittens over 4 weeks who are eating kitten food independently or who need to be syringe fed until they are gaining weight from eating on their own) 

      • Fresh plates of food at least every 8 hours for pregnant cats and nursing moms with kittens

• Have an appropriate space for your fosters that is easy to clean and separate from any resident pets or other fosters. All cats and kittens must be kept separate from other cats and kittens for 10-14 days. They must be kept separate from dogs while they are in the Neonatal Program. 

• Be willing to treat any non-emergency illnesses that arise. Mild illnesses such as colds, diarrhea, ringworm, etc.  are very common in neonatal kittens, and fosters are expected to treat any of these conditions as needed. You will have our support in learning to administer medications, and ALL of their medical care is free of charge through APA!