Vets – As a fosterer, we would look to you to be there for the cat when he needs to visit the vet. All our cats are checked over by a vet and almost all will need neutering and chipping whilst there. We would prefer it if you are able to make arrangements to take the cat to the vet at a time that fits in with you. We have about 5 vets which we use located in Havering, Thurrock and South Essex. This will usually be done early on and quite often before they even reach you, but you will be asked to keep up with any appointments they may have. The bill of course is paid by Pippa’s. We ask you not to take your foster to the vet unless it is an emergency, or you have discussed the issue with a member of the admin team. If there are any health concerns at all you can share them with the fostering group, and we will be able to book him in at the vets if necessary.

Feeding – We do not expect our fosterers to pay for the upkeep of the cat. All food and litter will be paid for by Pippa’s and will either be delivered or can be collected. Equally, if necessary, refunds can be made for items purchased on our behalf.

You will obviously need to be able to feed your foster at suitable points during the day or arrange for this to be done and clearly the litter will need changing.

Under no circumstances can a cat be let out. They must remain in the home at all times.

General wellbeing – Clearly, Mr Cat will need attention. This may be at his own pace or he may be happy to be fussed all day. You are there to help make him homeable and to earn his trust. He will then in turn trust you and hopefully others.

We will provide everything you need to entertain your foster too. Scratch posts, bedding and toys etc. Just let us know what you need.

It would be best all round if you had a spare room that you could keep your foster cat in, at least until he has settled, but it isn’t a deal breaker. Some cats will be fine around the house and if you do not currently have any pets of your own then they will likely be fine to share your living room with you. Not having a spare room will mean we will be restricted to what cats you are able to foster.

If you are intending mixing with your own animals, which is not advised until you are happy with the health and personality of your foster, then you should ensure your pets’ vaccinations are up to date.

Crates should be used particularly in the beginning as most of our cats were strays and will need to learn to use the litter box before being given free rein in the rest of the room. Again, they will be supplied by us.

Fostering can range from just a few days to several months. On average, it might take about four weeks for a cat to adjust to home life and be in good health. However, some cats may require longer, especially if they are very fearful or have medical issues that need to be addressed before they can be listed for adoption.

This is almost certainly going to happen! We rarely want to let them go and sometimes we don’t!! There are plenty of failed fosterers on the group. If you decide you want to keep the cat you have been fostering, then of course it is likely that he can stay. This would have to be discussed at the time.

Pippa’s Army admin team will advertise the cats for adoption, but you are welcome to post your own advertisement too as long as it is made clear that all enquiries come through Pippa’s Army.

If you are not experienced and want help, we will carry out home checks on the enquiry and address. We will ask you to speak to prospective new owners as you will be the one who can say with confidence what the cat would be like and how well he will match the enquirer. After all, you know the cat best.

You will be asked to transport the cat to his new home on most occasions unless there is a reason and in most cases you would want to. They do become your babies and you want to make sure they are going to the right place.

That about summarises up fostering for Pippa’s. If you have any questions, just ask.