What is it like fostering cats?

GAAS fosterer Michelle has fostered a remarkable 22 cats over the past two years. We asked her some questions about being a fosterer.

Q: How can you give them up?

A: That’s the question everyone asks, and the answer is, it’s easy. Because I know how hard the team have worked on finding amazing homes for them, and when you see the photo of your baby so happy in their new home, it makes it all worth it. That’s why I do this.

Q: Is fostering cats hard?

A: They’re all different and some cats are harder than others, but with the support of our fantastic team you can work through most things. You never know what to expect, but the unexpected can be amazing. I had to give Violet (above) her medicine for a while, and she hated it. But then one day I woke up and she was sitting on my chest as if to say thank you.

Q: What does cat fostering involve? 

A: You’re making them ready for their new home, getting them used to living with people and to things like washing machines, vacuum cleaners, everyday noises.

Q: Do you need experience to foster cats?

A: No. All fosterers make mistakes, but most can be sorted just with a phone call to the team. You get full support and training, and food, litter and everything provided. 

Q: What would you say to someone who was thinking about fostering?

A: Do it. You’ve got nothing to lose, the cats will bring you so much joy and you’ll be making a real difference.

If you think you might be interested in fostering cats, please visit our Could you foster cats? page to find out more.