Foster

Does Whiskers & Co Rescue provide supplies such as food and litter? 

We depend on donations and volunteer work. Unfortunately, we cannot provide food and litter for our fosters, but we do cover all medical expenses during the time they are being fostered. 

Does Whiskers & Co Rescue cover vet expenses? 

Thanks to our partner veterinary clinics, yes. Veterinary expenses are on Whiskers & Co Rescue while you foster so long as you use one of our partner vets. 

How long does fostering usually last? 

The cats stay with their foster home until they have completed their vet work, learned to socialise with people and other animals, learned to trust humans, and have found their forever home. This can be as short as a couple of weeks up to 4 months, or as extended as 9 months or even longer. It all depends on the cat and how quickly they can be ready for adoption. 

Do I need to pick up the cat or will someone take them to me? 

Usually, foster carers pick up the cat from the vet or from the previous foster home. In case you do not have a car, we will depend on our transport volunteers to pick the cat and take them to you. If you do not drive we highly recommend you have a transportation plan in case of emergencies or vaccination appointment. 

Can I change my mind and return a foster cat? 

Fostering is an act of love. We expect you to love and care for the cat. However, if for any reason you cannot continue fostering, we will find a new foster to take them. Please take into consideration that the cat suffers a big deal when moved homes, due to their territorial instinct. As such, we take extra care in screening foster homes. 

Can I foster a cat when I have a pet cat/dog of my own? 

Yes, in general. In fact, most foster carers are pet owners themselves. If your pet is friendly, de-sexed and indoors only, you can! You will receive all the support from our coordinators to make the introduction smooth, as long as you follow the instructions. 

What happens if the cat is not happy at or does not suit my home? 

Each case will be assessed individually, and our foster coordinators will provide you with strategies. Sometimes, when the foster carer already has a pet, the resident pet may not like the new cat in their territory. In this case, we may need to rehome the foster cat. 

My own pet has access to the backyard. Can I keep the backyard door open? 

For their own safety, all foster cats are indoor only. Since they are rescued cats they may run away. Most of the time they are far away from the place where they used to live and, if they try to escape and return to their previous home, they could get lost or harmed.. This is why we require fosters carers to keep the doors and windows closed. If they do not have a fly screen, then unfortunately they cannot foster. 

My balcony cannot be closed / There is no fly screen at the door and windows. Can I still foster? 

The safety and security of the cats come first. If you cannot guarantee that the cat will stay indoor and cannot have access to the outside, unfortunately you cannot foster. 

Please ask as many questions as you feel necessary to help you assess whether fostering a cat or a kitten fits your lifestyle. Email foster@whiskerscorescue.com.au