Ensure the safety of your foster cat (and any household pets).

• Cat-proof your home.
• Always use a cat carrier when transporting your foster cat.
• Your foster cat mustbe kept indoors at all times. This is where cats are safest from disease, dogs, wild animals, inclement weather and traffic.
• Your foster cat should be kept separate from other animals in the home for as long as possible to minimize your foster cat's stress. Isolation is also important to reduce the risk of exposing your household pets to possible illness or disease. Your pets should be current on all vaccinations for their own protection.

Provide for basic cat needs: food, water, shelter.

• The Branch will supply food, kitty litter, and toys; however, many foster parents wish to buy their own special toys for their foster cat.

• Do not feed your cat milk as this can cause diarrhea.

• Spend time interacting with your foster cat by playing with toys, giving gentle strokes (to encourage your cat to enjoy being touched) and providing plenty of tender love and care.

Begin very basic training.

• Encourage your cat to use a scratching post.
• Discourage your foster cat from eating off of the table or getting up on counter tops.

Observe and report any problems with your cat to the foster care coordinator.

• Watch closely to ensure the cat is using a litter box, is eating and drinking normally, and has normal stool.
• Closely observe incisions following all surgeries (including spay and neuter) each day for several days. Any signs of illness or infection, such as redness, swelling or oozing from an incision site should be reported to the Branch immediately.

Medicate cat when needed.

• If your cat is put on medications, it is important that you follow the directions carefully. Continue all medications as directed. Do not stop giving medications just because the cat looks better.
• All medications and veterinary care costs will be covered by the Ontario SPCA. It is important that you follow the policies for obtaining medications and vet care. The Branch has set procedures in place in order to control costs related to veterinary care for our animals.

Keep bedding and litter box clean.

• Be sure to keep the litter box some distance from food and water dishes.
• When introducing your foster cat to your home show the cat where the littler box is located. You may want to isolate the cat in this room for a few hours to help the cat adjust to the new environment. If you have other pets, it's best to keep your foster cat separated from your household animals for as long as possible for the health and safety of all animals involved. A cat-proofed bedroom, bathroom or laundry room can work well.

Transportation to and from veterinarian when needed.

• Always use a carrier. Please be on time for your scheduled appointments.

Maintain medical records and bio for your foster cat.

• Watch for dates that your cat needs vaccinations or has a medical appointment. Keep all medical records and provide to the shelter when requested (vaccinations, spay/neuter, deworming etc.).
• Write a bio about your foster cat's personality, special talents, and unique quirks to help shelter staff find the best home for your foster cat.