Fostering FAQ
WHAT IS FOSTERING?
Fostering is bringing a cat or kittens into your home and taking care of them until they are adopted out.
HOW LONG WOULD IT BE FOR?
We work with you. Some people are able to foster for a couple of months with a nursing mom and kittens for example. Some are only able to foster for a couple of weeks due to circumstances in their life.
WHERE AND HOW DO YOU GET A FOSTER ANIMAL?
Generally, most of the TCR foster cats and kittens come from the Trenton Animal Shelter. Some come from our TNR efforts if they’re friendly. Once you complete the foster sign-up we will be in touch with you, and transfer the animal into your care.
CAN YOU FOSTER IF YOU HAVE PETS ALREADY?
Absolutely, many of our fosters have pets of their own, but you will need dedicated space to keep your foster separate from your pets until they are ready to be introduced.
WHAT COSTS ARE INVOLVED?
You would be responsible for covering the cost of food or formula and litter, but we can help with providing food. We cover all medical expenses.
ARE FOSTER CATS AND KITTENS HEALTHY?
Generally, they are. However, due to their time in the shelter or the streets, sometimes the cats and kittens leave with a kitty cold. This is easily resolved with a 10-day course of antibiotics. TCR will train you on how to give medication and provide you with all the necessary medication.
HOW DO POSSIBLE ADOPTERS SEE THE FOSTER?
TCR hosts regular adoption events at pet stores to which fosters bring their cats. We also transfer cats from foster to several pet stores for about a month at a time, so they can be seen by store visitors for greater exposure and chance for adoption. Additionally, all our adoptable cats are featured on our website and we can arrange meet-and-greets between potential adopters and fostered animals.
WHAT TYPE OF SUPPORT DOES TCR OFFER FOSTER PARENTS?
We have a number of foster mentors who have plenty of experience with cats or who have themselves fostered and they are available for consultation by phone or email.