Shelters across the country rely on help from communities to care for animals in need. Fostering a pet gives the shelter more room to take in additional animals, and it also benefits the dogs and cats who get to go to these homes. Rescue workers are passionate about their jobs, but with so many animals to care for, each one does not always get a lot of one-on-one time. That is one way fostering can help. Here are a few benefits of taking in a foster cat:
1. It helps to socialize the cat.
Being in your home gives the kitten or cat a sense of what their life would be like once adopted. They get used to the different sounds, smells, objects, and activity happening around them. You can help them acclimate to being around people while in a safe environment. As a result, you can let the shelter know more about how the cat does around children, adults, or other animals, and what its personality is like. These are characteristics that may not be as evident while they are at the shelter.
You are able to help the rescue find an appropriate placement for the cat by giving them more information, and by getting the cat used to being in a home environment and socializing.
2. It can be a good learning experience.
If you are thinking about adopting a cat, fostering can be a good first step. You get to take in the cat on a temporary basis and experience what it would be like to have one of your own. Kids can learn what types of responsibilities come with cat ownership. Your family can see if you are ready to adopt a cat forever, or if you just prefer fostering and getting to spend time with a variety of different cats. Each one has their own personality.
3. Cats can be less demanding than dogs.
Cats are more independent and self-sufficient than dogs. Fostering a cat can be a good option if you have limited space, don’t have a backyard or much green space, or want to work with a pet that stays indoors and doesn’t need to go for walks. Cats are also quieter, which can be beneficial if you live in an apartment and are worried about bothering the neighbors but still want to be a foster pet parent.
4. It can beneficial for your mental health.
Having a cat around, even for a short time, can boost your mood. They provide companionship and can give you a greater sense of purpose. Stroking a cat’s fur can be very calming for you, plus the cat enjoys the interaction and connection as well. If you live alone or work from home, it can be nice to have someone else there, even if it is an animal.
Fostering a cat gives it a new chance at a better life. You are providing a loving environment and quality care to get the cat ready for its forever home. You are helping it to feel safe and comfortable around others so it can make a wonderful pet for another family. And you are empowering the shelter to continue saving more lives and caring for more animals.
Plus, you don’t have to go it alone. You can contact the shelter if you have questions or concerns. If you are heading out of town for work or vacation, board your cat at Lake Wylie Pet Resort so you know it is safe and is getting the attention it deserves. Know that your pet – foster or permanent – is in good hands. Contact us today to book your cat’s stay.