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HARROGATE |
Fostering cats | |
Ever considered fostering cats? It is one of the most rewarding and valuable roles performed
by Cats Protection volunteers.
Some fosterers choose to use a large cage (supplied by us) in a warm spare room. The cage is
big enough to accomodate a litter tray, food and water dishes and a bed. Most of our
fosterers try to devote an hour or so each day when the cat will be allowed out of the cage for
a little attention, affection and play.
Alternatively, if you have a yard or garden, a purpose-made pen can be installed, again at our
expense. Such pens feature an insulated cabin with plenty of soft bedding (the sleeping quarters)
and a run, accessed by a cat flap, wher the cat can stretch its legs and play. The pen will be
connected to your electricity supply to provide heating and lighting, but even with the cabin heater
running full time during cold winter weather, you will not notice a significant increase in your bill.
However, please do not be deterred if electricity costs are a concern - we may be able to come
to an arrangement.
Typically, a pen is of similar size to a small garden shed and can be located unobtrusively in a
corner of your choice. The accompanying photographs give some idea of the appearance of a
pen from both inside and out.
Food, dishes, litter, litter trays, disinfectant, bedding, toys and everything else you need will be
supplied by the branch. All you are asked to do is feed the cat three times a day, and keep the
pen and in particular the litter tray clean and tidy. It will be necessary to disinfect the pen and
wash the bedding before the arrival of each new cat. You will invariably be given a break of a few days to complete such tasks. There might also be occasions when you need to visit the vet
with the cat, but again, if this is a problem (for example, if you lack transport) we will be able to
help.
A cat might be with you for just a few days, or it could be months - it all depends on when a
suitable home can be found. We will, of course, make arrangements to care for the cat if you
are ill, or if you go on holiday.
What are the pros and cons of fostering? As already outlined, it is rewarding and valuable work,
and good fun, especially if you have a mother and a litter of kittens to care for. On the down
side, it does require commitment; for example, cleaning a litter tray on a cold, wet morning when
you are already late for work can be a drag. Is it worth it? If you don't know, we can't tell you!
If you are interested and would like to know more, we would love to hear from you.
If you would like to discuss fostering please click here to send us an e-mail and you will be contacted by the welfare department.