Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about our Foster Program

Q. Why is there a need for a foster program?

A. Though Feline Rescue, Inc. has a shelter, there is always a need for foster homes for pregnant cats, abandoned kittens, special needs cats (including those with Feline Leukemia) and those recovering from injuries or surgery. Foster care allows the cats/kittens to become acclimated in a loving home environment where they are nurtured and cared for until ready for adoption.

Q. How do I find out more about the program?  How do I sign up?

A. The foster care coordinator ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ) can further explain the program and be a resource to you throughout your fostering. After completing an application and if approved, a contract is signed agreeing to terms for fostering. To download a Foster Caregiver application form and waiver, please click here.

Q. How much time is involved with fostering?

A. This depends on the needs of the individual cat/kitten. Many of the cats need minimum medical care but because of certain circumstances find themselves in foster care. So good food, regular attention and lots of love may be all that is required before they are ready for adoption in a relatively short time. Depending on the age of the kittens or in the case of a pregnant or nursing cat with kittens, they mayrequire more time in a foster home, as do cats requiring any type of treatment or medication. In some instances socialization may taken longer for some cats/kittens. Also there are cats in need of permanent foster care. Most people work full time and still are able to foster.

Q. What qualifications are required to foster?

• Love and concern for the cats/kittens
• All adults in the household must agree to the foster arrangement, and agree to Feline Rescue's policies
• Willingness and ability to work with the foster coordinator while caring for the cats/kittens in the home and during the adoption process. 
• Time and desire to interact with cats/kittens
• Provide food, water, and medication (if necessary)
• A clean and safe living environment and daily care and attention
• Other animals in the home must be current on all vaccinations. (In most cases, the foster cat(s) will have been tested for certain diseases prior to placement in foster care.)
• For at least an initial period of time, foster cats/kittens should be kept apart from the foster caretaker's pets; preferably in a separate area. Due to a mom cat’s instinctive need to protect its young ones, a pregnant or nursing cat must always be kept safely away from other pets

Q. What are the responsibilities of the foster caretaker?

• Aid in the care and socialization of sick, injured or very young cats and kittens.
• Be attuned to changes with the cat and any illness and relate that information to the foster coordinator.
• Spend time socializing on a daily basis with the foster cat/kittens.
• Provide food, water, litter and other necessities. Most of the food has been donated and is available for the foster cats/kittens; in addition, the cost of medical care (if approved before hand) is covered by Feline Rescue.
• Medicate the cat/kitten, if necessary under the guidance of the foster coordinator; take to designated veterinarian if required and approved to do so.
• Be willing and able to transport the cat/kitten to and from designated off-site adoption days and to veterinarian appointments in a secure carrier.
• If agreed to before hand, allow potential adopters to view the cat/kitten in your home environment

Q.  What is involved in the adoption process?

A. When it is determined the cat/kitten is ready for adoption, the foster coordinator or assistant(s) will interview potential adopters by phone or at off-site (typically Petco) locations on designated adoption days (apx. 1 or 2 days a month). After a verbal interview, potential adopters will complete an application and if approved, sign a contract agreeing to the terms and conditions of the adoption.

In addition, information and photos should be completed by the foster caretaker so that the cat’s/kitten’s profile and photo can be placed on www.petfinders.org for posting on Feline Rescue's website (www.felinerescue.org) for adoption.

Q.  Where can I get additional information?

A. Please call (651) 642-5900 for additional details or e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .