Foster a cat

Give animals a temporary home

Foster Now

WHY FOSTER

Saving an animal's life

We get it ā€“ adoption is not for everyone and itā€™s also not the only answer to our rescue mission. Fostering is also critical to our rescue work here at HK PAWS and it can make a huge difference in an animalā€™s home-searching journey.

How fostering helps

Plus itā€™s a really rewarding experience for your family members, kids and pets at home to build a precious bonding with another animal!

Fostering Explained

Responsibilities of Fosterers

Introduce your foster cat to potential adopters šŸ‘„

Care for basic daily needs like regular feeding šŸ¶ šŸ±

Lots of love ā¤

Requirements

Cat Fosters Eligibility

To start the process, you will be asked to fill in an Ā Cat Foster Form for us to assess your conditions whether you would be a good fit.

These include:

Applicant must be 25 years old or above

Applicantā€™s residence must be thoroughly secured with window nets / balcony protection to prevent any falling injuries; window nets secured by cable ties or mosquito screens are not allowed

Applicantā€™s residence / building must not have open aired corridors

If you are fostering kittens, you are required to take in two or more kittens together so they can keep each other company

STEPS TO FOSTER

HK Paws Fostering Process

STEP 1: Ā 
Complete Form -

Submit the Adopt & Foster Form, including name of the specific pet you are interested in.

STEP 2: Ā 
Wait to Be Contacted -
ā€
Our volunteer will reach out to you within 14 days if you are right fit for fostering, explaining the fostering requirement & responsibility.

STEP 3:
Meet Nā€™ Greet - Ā 
ā€
Arrangements will be made for you to meet the potential cat(s), either in Cat House or with the current foster.

STEP 4:
Fulfil Foster Duties ā€“

During foster care, HKPAWS will provide food supplies, equipment needed such as crates & harness, and cover all necessary medical costs for the cats.

We will also support you with basic training guidance and integration tips. As fosters, you are required to bring the cat to medical appointments.

STEP 1: Ā  FORM - Fill in the foster application form

STEP 2: Ā CONTACT - HK PAWS volunteer will reach out to you within 14 days if you are right fit for fostering, explaining the fostering requirement and responsibility,

STEP 3: MATCH MAKING - You can pick the cats who are currently in cat house based on appearance and characteristics. Please also let our volunteer know your availability and if there are any situations in advance.

STEP 4: CAT PICK UP - Itā€™s time to pick up bring the lovely animal home. šŸ”

Interested in fostering?
Please complete the questionnaire below!
šŸ± Ā GET STARTED

FOSTERING

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the basic requirements for cat foster?

To start the process, you will be asked to fill in an online questionnaire for us to assess your conditions whether you would be a good fit. These include:

  • Applicant must be age 25+
  • Applicantā€™s residence must be thoroughly secured with window nets / balcony protection to prevent any falling injuries; window nets secured by cable ties or mosquito screens are not allowed
  • Applicantā€™s residence / building must not have open aired corridors
  • If you are fostering kittens, you are required to take in two or more kittens together so they can keep each other company
How is fostering different from adoption?

Fostering is when you provide a temporary home for our cat(s) for a period of time, while getting the cat(s) ready to integrate into society and up for adoption.

What are the responsibilities of a cat foster?

Short answer: lots of love!

But there are also other key duties:

  • Care for the basic daily needs of your foster cat, including feeding and taking her to the vet
  • Socialization with the cat to help it become well-adjusted to home
  • Litter box training & maintenance
  • Helping them to find a forever home, including taking pictures and spreading the words
What expenses are involved in fostering?

HKPAWS often cover veterinary costs, food, food bowls, litter box and toys, while you may need to provide other supplies.

Can I pick which pet I want to foster?

In many cases, when you decide to adopt a cat, you may have some input or preference in selecting the specific cat you want to care for. We often consider factors like your living situation, experience, and the needs of the animal when matching you with a cat.

Can I foster a cat if I have other pets in my home?

We will conduct thorough assessments including home visits and trials to make sure the foster and your pets get along. Introductions and proper precautions are typically recommended.

I only have a few days of holidays, can I foster? How long is fostering?

Frequent changes of environment are not preferred for our furry friends. While fostering duration is subject to many circumstances and will be mutually agreed on a case-by-case basis, we kindly ask potential fosters to consider fostering for at least 4 weeks, and ideally until the cat finds its forever home. We can make short-term staying arrangements if you have overseas trips to make while fostering.

How long is fostering?

The duration of fostering can vary from a few weeks to several months, depending on factors like the dog/cat's needs, age, temperament, and how long it takes for the dog/cat to be rehomed. It's essential to discuss the expected duration with us before committing to a foster placement.

Can I keep the foster pet or find them a home?

We very much appreciate your willingness to help with the rehoming process of the foster cat, by either spreading the words or considering adopting the cat yourself! The specific arrangements can vary, so it's best to discuss your preferences and bring it forward with us as the final decision resides with HKPAWS.

What should I do if the foster shows signs of illness or distress?

If you notice any concerning symptoms or behaviors in the foster, contact us for guidance on how to address the issue promptly.

What if I have questions after I get the foster pet home?

If you have questions or need support after bringing a foster pet home, we are readily available to provide guidance and assistance. We value open communications, so seek help when needed to ensure the well-being of the animal in your care.

NOT READY TO ADOPT OR FOSTER?

More ways to support our dogs and cats

Support our Operation

We're seeing more abandoned pets in HK - and with your support, we will never turn them away.

Your donation will be 100% contributed to the animals waiting for home, which includes food, health check, surgeries and more!

Donate Now

Become our Volunteer

If you love pets and would like to spend some of your time to help those in need, weā€™ve got some amazing volunteering opportunities for you!

Join our team of volunteers on rescue mission or skill-based, there are plenty to do.

How It Works