Become a Purr Protector

Foster

Thank you for considering fostering with West Side Cat Rescue! Our feline friends come in all shapes and sizes, from tiny bottle feeders to seasoned seniors needing a temporary home. Your love and care can make a world of difference to cats at every stage of life. Explore fostering opportunities with us today!”

Since 2016

What you need to know

Vet Location

Provided at Onboarding

Role

Fosters are crucial members of West Side Cat Rescue, providing vital care for cats and kittens needing extra attention before adoption. 

Commitment times vary (2 weeks to several months) based on each animal’s needs. As a Foster, reliable transportation is essential for check-ups and medical care. 

Working closely with our veterinary staff, you’ll follow vaccination schedules, assist with weigh-ins, and facilitate any necessary procedures or treatments to prepare the cats for adoption.

We provide all food, litter, and medications, along with comprehensive training. Join us in making a difference in cats’ lives today!

Requirements

  • Minimum age: 21 years
  • Reliable transportation and communication
  • Ability to bend and lift up to 30 pounds
  • Preferred, but not required: Experience with cat care/handling
  • Compassion for animals
  • Collaboration with medical staff, volunteers, staff, and shelter guests
  • Commitment to a pre-determined treatment plan discussed with Medical Staff
  • Provision of a separate area in the home (e.g., spare bedroom, office) away from other animals”

Types of Fosters

1. Bottle Baby Fosters: Experienced caregivers who provide round-the-clock care for orphaned kittens, including bottle feeding and monitoring their health.

2. Weaning Fosters: Foster parents who help transition kittens from bottle feeding to solid food, typically caring for them until they are fully weaned.

3. Medical Fosters: Experienced individuals who can administer medications, provide wound care, or monitor special medical needs, such as recovering from surgery or illness.

4. Behavioral Fosters: Experienced cat handlers who can work with cats exhibiting behavioral issues, such as fearfulness or aggression, to help them become more adoptable.

5. Temporary Fosters: Individuals who can provide short-term care for cats or kittens, such as during times of overcrowding or when a cat needs a temporary home due to a change in their owner’s circumstances.

6. Long-Term Fosters: Individuals willing to provide care for cats with chronic medical conditions or special needs who may require a longer stay in foster care before finding their forever home.

7. Senior Cat Fosters: Foster parents who specifically care for older cats, providing them with a comfortable and loving environment in their golden years.

8. Emergency Fosters: Individuals who can provide immediate, short-term care for cats or kittens in urgent situations, such as after a natural disaster or in cases of abuse or neglect.

Each type of foster plays a vital role in providing cats and kittens with the care and support they need to thrive until they can be adopted into permanent homes.

Foster today

West Side Cat Rescue

(716) 536-3236

westsidecatrescue@gmail.com