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If you have thought about becoming a foster care volunteer, now is certainly a good time! The Fairfax County Animal Shelter is well into its “kitten season,” also known as the time of year when the weather gets warmer, coinciding with kittens (and other animals) being born and brought to the shelter. These kittens may be found alone, with their littermates, with their mother or without her. They range in age from days old to teetering on the line of being a juvenile, which means they can have different needs in a foster home.
We asked our Foster and Rescue Manager, Lori Ward, what considerations someone fostering a kitten should have. Here is what she had to say:
1. Preparedness for Kitten Antics
First and foremost, potential foster parents should be prepared for fun kitten antics! Once kittens begin moving around, they can be quite energetic. The way they pounce, climb, meow and play is often comical, although they sometimes get themselves into trouble. It is not uncommon to find one climbing the curtains or to hear the loud meows of one who has accidentally gotten stuck under the sofa and cannot find their way out.
2. Safe Space for Kittens
Although having a dedicated space that is just for foster kittens is not required, it makes it easier to care for and clean up after them. A small room, like a bathroom with easy-to-clean tile floors, is ideal. Some fosters use their spare bedrooms. If you don’t have the space to dedicate an entire room to foster kittens, you can still set up a kitten-friendly area with playpens or pet gates. Weaned kittens who are not dependent on being bottle-fed can be left alone for a fair length of time in a safe area that has been kitten-proofed.
3. Willingness to Let Go
Last but certainly not least, it can be especially difficult to say goodbye and return your foster kittens when you first start fostering. However, know that when they return to the shelter, staff and volunteers are always excited to see them. They will cuddle and kiss the kittens until they are adopted, which never takes long!
Of course, there is more to it, so if you are interested in finding out more about becoming a foster for the Fairfax County Animal Shelter, please visit our website.
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