When Mark and I first started fostering we weren’t sure what to expect.  We have always had cats of our own but when Pepsi, our last cat, died we thought about fostering and decided to find out about it.  We were given lots of help and advice and before we knew it we had our first cat to look after.  She had already given birth to four kittens before reaching our house and had her final kitten in our garage!  The first few days were nerve racking as we’d never experienced a pregnant cat or kittens this young before.  Again, everyone was very helpful and we soon got into the swing of things.  Sadly the mum had to be put down after 7 weeks due to FIV.  By this time the kittens were weaned and old enough to cope on their own.  We had a very difficult wait while they were tested for the disease and the first set of results came back positive.  However, a second lot of tests were done and thankfully these came back negative and all five kittens were given the all clear.  It was a very emotional time for everyone concerned and we had to deal with a situation we hadn’t been prepared for. 

Every cat or family we have had since has been very different but this is what makes fostering special.  It can be very challenging but is hugely rewarding and great fun.  There are ups and downs and sometimes situations you find yourself in are heartbreaking.  It is very difficult having to take a cat to the vets to be put to sleep, no matter how long you have been looking after them.  The good things far outweigh the bad though and it is lovely spending time with these animals, building up their trust and seeing them re-homed.  Just wait until you receive your first pictures, letters and even Christmas cards from the cats you have fostered! 

We know we made the right decision in deciding to foster and are eagerly awaiting our next family.  Our children also get a huge amount of pleasure in looking after the cats and have always been very willing to help out with the cleaning and the feeding! 

If you are considering fostering we would strongly recommend it.  Everything is provided by the Cat Protection.  All that is asked of you is your time and lots of TLC.

Liz and Mark
Fosterers