Getting started

Do you have a little space, a big heart and a love of cats? Are you unable to commit long-term to a cat, or just want to find the "right" cat at your leisure? Do you want to build up some good karma in your life? You might just be a foster in the making.

Almost anyone has the ability to foster successfully! Our cats aren't too picky about where they live - they just like good company. (That litter box, though, better be clean!) Some of our cats might have specific needs like no other pets or a calm/quiet household, but our hope is that you'll be the one to tell us what our cats' likes and dislikes are and help us get to know them a little better.

Everyone in the household should be on-board with having a foster cat in the home, even if you're the only one providing daily care. Harmony is important. Our cats are very zen.

You need to be able to keep your foster cat indoor-only. This is non-negotiable. If you happen to have the right set-up, outdoor time must be in a fully enclosed space (like a catio) or on a harness & leash in a secluded area (like a private backyard) under full supervision. But a good window and a patch on sunlight on the floor is all that most of our cats need.

For our adoption advocate program, you'll need to be tech/social media-savvy, or else willing to do a lot of "boots on the ground" promotion of your foster cat. Our cats demand that their stories be told - they want to sign a long-term lease with an adopter as soon as possible. Of course, if they (and you) decide that your home is "the" home, then we'll walk you through the adoption process.

We have four main foster programs and each one is tailored to the needs of the participating cats. For instance, our maternity ward cats need a little extra attention including daily weigh-ins, bi-weekly vaccine appointments, and timely spay/neuter appointments. Our adoption advocate cats require a proactive approach to helping them find their forever home. Whichever program you choose to participate in, here are some basic expectations:

• You'll be committed to helping the cat(s) in your care and be proactive in helping market them for adoption (whenever applicable)
• You'll communicate any needs, questions or concerns in a timely manner to the appropriate staff - if your foster cat is low on medications or you need assistance with basic care supplies, you'll let us know in advance so we can coordinate a supply pick-up
• You'll follow all program policies and protocols, and follow all instructions given to you - in other words, you'll sign up and show up for vet appointments on time, comply with all care instructions, and transport your cat as needed to adoption events
• You'll work collaboratively with our organization and maintain a respectful and positive attitude - we're cat people, but also people-people!

In order to foster you need to:

• Be at least 18 years old (or foster alongside a parent/guardian)
• Have a valid government-issued I.D.
• Have access to reliable transportation
• Be able to provide daily care for your foster cat
• Adhere to all program protocols and instructions
• Be able to keep your foster cat(s) indoor-only at all times