By Mercedes Fielding & Fiorella Rodriguez
Thinking About Fostering? Here’s How to Be a Great Foster with Purrfect Catpanion
Thank you for your interest in fostering with Purrfect Catpanion. Fostering is one of the most powerful ways to help a homeless cat. It gives them the chance to heal, feel safe, and start fresh. We’re so happy you’re here and hope this helps you understand what’s expected and how to make the most of your experience with us.
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1. Lead with an Open Heart
We know it’s easy to have a picture in mind of the perfect foster cat, but the truth is, every cat deserves a chance. Whether they’re young or old, shy or outgoing, black, white, or tabby, they all need love. While we do our best to match your preferences, we’re especially grateful for fosters who are open to helping any cat in need.
2. Be Willing to Support the Vetting Process
Our rescue is completely volunteer run, and while we wish we could deliver fully vetted cats every time, it’s not always possible. Sometimes a cat will need medications, a safe place to settle in, or help getting to an appointment. We’re here to guide you every step of the way and provide supplies when needed. Your flexibility and support during this stage mean everything.
3. Understand That Adoption Takes Time
Some cats are adopted quickly. Others may need more time and effort. That’s where you come in. We ask our fosters to help by sharing photos, videos, and updates so we can promote your foster on social media and adoption sites. You’re not just giving them a roof, you’re helping them take the next step toward their forever home.
4. Be Kind and Work With Us as a Team
At Purrfect Catpanion, we’re all in this together. Every team member is a volunteer with a shared passion for saving cats. We ask our fosters to be respectful, responsive, and open to guidance. Following our protocols and keeping us in the loop helps us work more efficiently and gives your foster cat the best possible care.
5. Stay Connected
We love hearing about your foster cat’s progress. Whether it’s a cute photo, a funny habit, or a concern you’d like help with, staying in touch allows us to update records and promote your foster more effectively. Communication really is key.
6. Provide a Safe Clean Space
A quiet secure spot in your home, like a bathroom or spare room, can make a big difference in helping a new cat feel safe. Keeping the area clean and peaceful helps them decompress and start to trust again. We can help you set this up and answer any questions along the way.
7. Be Patient and Supportive
Each cat is different. Some will warm up right away, while others might need time and space to adjust. Your patience, gentleness, and consistency can completely change their life. It’s a beautiful thing to watch a scared cat slowly come out of their shell because of your care.
8. Commit to the Process
Life happens, and we’ll always work with you if challenges arise. But fostering does involve commitment. We ask that you stay with your foster until they’re adopted or until we can make a new plan together. Your consistency makes a world of difference in their emotional well being.
If you’re ready to open your heart and home to a cat in need, we’d love to welcome you into the Purrfect Catpanion family. Fostering truly saves lives, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Let’s give these cats the second chance they deserve, together.
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Ready to foster? Please send an email to adopt@findyourcatpanion.org. Or reach out to us or fill out our foster interest form Here.