There are some occasions when you feel the need to help the community. However, often, you expect that it requires something big or monumental. That is not always the case as you can still help in your own little ways. One of them is being a foster parent to homeless cats. Does it sound intriguing?
Being a foster parent to homeless felines is an exciting and rewarding experience. However, it is not just about taking care of cats. It is a big responsibility that inspires you to give your love and time. There are a lot of people who underestimate the responsibilities that come with it, and they often give up.
Being a foster parent to an animal is a responsibility, so you need to take it head-on. There is no gray area or in-between when it comes to this. If you are looking for some ways to become a good cat foster parent, here are some things that you need to keep in mind:
The Value of Separation
The moment the cat arrives at your home, you might have the urge or reflex to cuddle with it. Not so soon! Your cat can be stressed, anxious, and worn out, and the last thing that it would want is a big hug from you. You need to leave the cat alone first. You can allocate your bathroom or spare room where it can rest and eat. If you have other cats at home, the new one should be checked thoroughly to prevent the spread of infection or any condition.
Getting Them What They Need
Now that the cat is starting to feel comfortable in its space, you should provide it with its basic needs. Start with food, of course. Choose food that will not make the cat obese. If you are nursing a kitten that still depends on a mother, do not feed it with ordinary milk. There are special kinds of milk made for kittens. If your cat has a urinary tract illness, you should give it canned cat food for urinary tract health.
Medical Attention
If you notice that your foster cat is lethargic, it might be feeling unwell. If this happens, you should take the cat to a veterinarian. Address the issue right away. Also, while you are at it, you can ask the vet if the foster cat is ready for vaccination.
Socializing with Them
The cat might be feeling energetic and playful. It can have toys to play with, but it will still need to interact with others, especially if there are other cats at your home. Since cats spend a lot of time sleeping, they have much energy. Socializing will allow them to play with others, thus keeping them physically active and healthy.
In the end, being a foster parent to cats requires you to be patient and compassionate. This cannot be easy at times, especially if you have a lot of cats under your care. With that in mind, you might want to seek help from other foster parents.