Should You Foster a Friend's Cats?

Fostering cats can be incredibly rewarding for the cats in question, as well as for those who foster cats. But if you are considering fostering your friend's cats, you should consider your decision very carefully before you agree to take the cats in.

Maintenance for the Cats

Fostering is different from adoption, as the cats will not be your own, but will continue to belong to your friend. It is important to make your wishes clear from the beginning, especially when friendships are involved, as some people are reluctant to set out the rules and regulations out of fear of offending their friend.

If you are thinking of fostering a friend's cats, has the owner agreed on maintenance payments to cover the cost of the cats' food, litter, treats, toys, and veterinary care? If your friend has not made any mention of maintenance, do you have the necessary funds to care for the cats' needs if your friend fails to provide financial assistance for the cats?

Is Your Friend Willing to Take Them Back?

Fostering offers a short-term solution to pet owners who are not in a position to keep their cats with them during trying personal circumstances such as a divorce, a move or during business trips. But some friends take advantage and hand their cats over on the pretext of a short term "fostering" agreement, only to refuse to take them back at a later date.

Before you take the cats into your home, take steps to preserve your friendship and the welfare of the cats by setting everything down in writing. Doing so can help you to avoid any misunderstandings later on if things do not work out the way you expected.

Are You Likely to Become Attached to the Cats?

While fostering cats offers them a secure home for the time being, it can be hard for some to hand them back, especially if the cats have lived with you for a few weeks or months. If you are likely to become attached to the cats and have a hard time handing them back at the end of your agreement, you should think carefully before making a decision. An emotional bond with cats can be hard to break, so think carefully before you agree to foster them.

While fostering cats can be incredibly rewarding, it is not as easy or as straightforward as it may seem. There is a lot that can go wrong with the arrangement, which is why it is best to think things through carefully before agreeing to take on the responsibility of your friend's cats.