Becoming a Foster Carer with Cats Protection

Hello, my name is Marie and I am a Foster Carer for Cats Protection Wales Cat Centre. When I first enquired I wasn’t sure whether I was doing the right thing. At the outset it was a bit of a whirlwind, with the training and information I received.

As a fosterer for Wales Cat Centre, I become involved with cats before they are ready for adoption. Some cats come into the centre and are made fit to home quite quickly once they reach the minimum vet standard. This includes a full vet check, first vaccination, neutering, treatment for fleas and worms, and being microchipped. However, many cats are not ready at that stage. This can be for a variety of reasons, including health or behavioural issues.

Many cats find the centre environment stressful and need the help of fosterers to provide patience, time and care. That space and understanding allow them to develop and, eventually, reach a stage where they are ready to be adopted.

The training programme with Cats Protection is excellent. Understanding why cats behave the way they do has been instrumental in helping me to support and develop the cats in my care. The staff at the centre are exceptional. There is always someone there to help and support me. All the staff and volunteers are incredibly caring; they really are amazing.

When I started fostering, I wasn’t sure how I would manage giving cats up after getting to know them and caring for them. It’s not always easy. However, I have come to realise that there is a constant stream of cats needing help. Sometimes it’s heart breaking, but most of the time it’s joyous to see these little characters develop and grow.

One of the cats I fostered was Dotty. She was a fabulous cat who came to me with no fur at all because she had a flea allergy. She was the sweetest little girl, and it was rewarding to be part of her journey to recovery.

Dotty, before and after

                                                                              

It is so rewarding and fulfilling to know the difference that time, care and patience can make to a cat’s life. As much as I give, I also get so much more back. I can honestly say that I’ve laughed and cried doing this rewarding work as a fosterer, and I’m so glad I took the plunge and made the decision to become a Cats Protection volunteer.

It’s been a real privilege to meet and care for so many cats that desperately need help.

One of those was Trixie, who came into the centre around February or March 2024. She arrived with ulcerated eyes which, sadly, had to be removed. Trixie came to me to help her adapt. There was a photo taken at the centre when she first arrived which showed just how much pain she must have been in.

Trixie had her eye surgically removed due to being badly ulcerated

Despite everything, Trixie was the cuddliest of cats and it didn’t take her long to find her way around and adjust to her new surroundings. After a few weeks with me, Trixie was adopted to the right owner who understood her needs and she is now very happily settled.

Trixie happily settled 

Marie