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When you foster, you're donating your time and resources to help a cat in need - whether it's with medical recovery, neonatal care or adoption promotion. As a small rescue organization, we rely on the generosity of volunteers like you to provide the basic care supplies needed for our foster cats. On our end, we provide all medical care and the support you need to succeed.
If you would like to foster but are unable to commit to the cost of some basic care supplies, we recommend setting up an Amazon Wishlist and encouraging your friends and family to donate. >>Read more about setting up an Amazon Wishlist.
Occasionally, we are able to provide some basic supplies (such as food and litter) to our foster volunteers. Please email us at fosters@heavenlypets.org to request this assistance.
What you need
What you need
A travel carrier
All cats must be transported in a travel carrier. Preferably, one that is a sturdy plastic and easy to disinfect. You can line the bottom with a soft towel, blanket, or a puppy pad. Label the carrier with your name and phone number.
When you pick up your foster cat, we'll also provide a card with the name, microchip and Heaven on Earth contact information that can be taped or clipped onto the handle.
Food
We recommend waiting to purchase food until you know the medical and behavioral history of your foster cat.
Cats will have different dietary needs (such as a special diet, prescription diet, or wet/dry restrictions) and it's important to follow the feeding advice given to you.
Don't forget that treats should be included in the daily caloric needs of your foster cat - meaning, every one counts! Too many treats will cause weight gain, so use them sparingly.
Dishes
Our cats don't expect their food to be served on a silver platter. You can use spare dishes or even tupperware, as long as you have separate ones for dry food, wet food and fresh water.
Clean food and water dishes regularly with dish soap to prevent bacteria build-up.
Litter box(es)
The general rule is to have at least one litter box per cat. But of course, no two cats like the same kind of litter box. So why not get one that you can adjust to meet each cat's needs?
Some cats need higher sides to prevent spraying, while other cats want a box that's open and inviting. We recommend removing the cat flap on any enclosed litter box, and removing the hood for the first week or so.
Litter
The bane of every cat owner! But a good-quality litter can make that stinky chore a little easier.
Cats tend to prefer fine grain litter, about two inches deep. Cats over 4 months can use scoopable litter, while kittens should only be given a non-clumping clay litter (to prevent gastrointestinal blockages). For new cats, using a cat attractant-type litter can ease the transition into a home.
Oh, and don't forget the scooper!
Toys & Enrichment
The best toys in life are free. (Seriously.) While you're more than welcome to buy fancy cat scratchers, play tunnels and the like - you can do a lot with paper, boxes and a little creativity. And no need to disinfect - just toss when done.
Daily enrichment is essential for indoor cats - so make sure you have toys of some kind at the ready.
Supplies for kittens
If you foster any kittens under 8 weeks (with or without a mom), you should have a few extra supplies on hand. This includes:
- heating pad (electric or microwavable)
- kitchen scale (to monitor growth)
- light karo syrup (in case of hypoglycemia)
- cat-safe nail trimmers (to get kittens used to it)
- bottle and formula for kittens under 4 weeks (good to have on hand, even with a mom!)
- chicken baby food and/or kitten food varieties (for picky eaters or sick kittens)
You can find a comprehensive list of recommended kitten care supplies at kittenlady.org. Not all of these items are essential, and some can be found for cheaper prices - but it's a great place to start!
The transition home
The transition home
The first week
You'll want to create a safe space for your new foster cat to settle in. One room is ideal, preferably one without too many hiding spaces. A bathroom, spare room, or home office are all great choices. Bedrooms are less ideal because many cats will hide under the bed or in the closet and be difficult to access. If you have studio apartment or limited space, using a large wire dog crate can be used as your safe space. Remember, this is just temporary! It helps your foster cat adjust to being in a new place.
Whatever space you use, you'll need to equip it with:
- a bed or comfy blanket
- a litter box
- food and water bowls (placed as far away from the litter box as possible)
Plan to keep your foster cat in this safe space for about a week (the exact time will vary depending on how confident or shy your foster cat is). Spend plenty of time petting, playing with and hanging out with your cat. This is a great time to introduce yourself and get an idea of the cat's behavior.
Confident cats
Some cats will "want out" right away. And that's okay! Try to keep them in the safe space for at least 24-48 hours. If the cat is showing signs of confidence (high tail, meowing/chirping, approaching you quickly), you're welcome to integrate them into your full home before the week is up. We recommend still placing your foster cat in this safe space at night and/or while you're not home for the first week until you know they won't get into any mischief while you're not supervising them!
Shy cats
For shy cats, it's worth spending the extra time letting them get used to their environment without introducing them to too much territory at once. If you have a particularly shy cat, read more about setting them up for success here: https://heavenlypets.org/socializing-a-shy-or-fearful-cat/
It may take a full week - or even two or three before they feel comfortable roaming your home.
When to seek help
- If your foster cat hasn't eaten in 48 hours, or if you foster kitten hasn't eaten in 12 hours
- If your foster cat is hidden in an inaccessible place (where you can't leave food/water)
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