New cat rescue group

This summer, I embarked on a new fostering journey with Missoula Advocats, a cat rescue group. After years of adopting senior and hospice cats from AniMeals, I was eager to try a different fostering experience. Missoula Advocats is comprised of two dedicated women who rescue cats and kittens in need of spaying or neutering and loving homes. The Herd and I have not been utilizing the basement space. The basement can accommodate a small number of foster cats.

Feline Hotel Jess

In a fortunate turn of events, a trapped mother cat found refuge in one of the downstairs bedrooms, allowing her to care for her young ones. The other bedroom was occupied by a few unspayed young female felines. During a rescue mission, the group discovered multiple felines in dire need of recovery. Among them was an older kitten, found sick in a junkyard with grease covering its paws. I gladly took in this kitten, providing it with a safe and nurturing environment.

The Herd Knows

Over the years, the Herd had grown accustomed to the presence of senior and hospice cats. This familiarity kept them calm and composed, preventing them from getting agitated when they discovered the existence of the fosters living in the basement.

Hammond, the sick kitten

After weeks of diligent care, the sick cat slowly recovered from the painful abscesses that covered his ears and face. During this time, my friend, Molly, and I dedicated ourselves to meticulously cleaning the grease from his claws and paw pads. It was then that Hammond, the cat, began to trust us, sensing that he was in capable and loving hands. The bond between Hammond and I grew stronger as he accepted all the care and attention we offered him. As he started to feel better, he ventured upstairs, marking a significant milestone in his recovery. The Herd quickly accepted Hammond. I fell in love with him.

Betty, from a semi-feral to a friendly

Initially, adopting another foster cat hadn’t crossed my mind. Unfortunately, during that process, I had lost the last of my five senior cats. Betty, who had arrived as a semi-feral, resided in the bedroom for the summer. She had come from a hoarding situation. Betty and the other girls had access to a makeshift catio I had built for them. This transition was unexpected. I observed Betty’s noticeably strong eye contact. I gradually allowed her to venture beyond the basement catio into the garden. Remarkably, she always came when I called her. Weeks later, I realized she was well-liked by the Herd, especially Ellie Mae, the cat-dog and she was overjoyed to join them. Despite exceeding my self-imposed limit of ten cats, I was fortunate to secure sponsorship to keep Betty.

Within our feline family, both Hammond and Betty discovered and harmoniously integrated with us. It’s possible for a foster cat to choose you, shower you with love, and embrace being a part of our loving family. 

Fostering is rewarding

With great pleasure, I assisted in providing shelter for fostered cats. The Missoula Advocats rescue group diligently ensured that all the cats and kittens underwent spaying and neutering procedures, ensuring their well-being. Furthermore, their dedication extended to finding permanent and loving homes for each animal. Together, we take pride in our service to the community, contributing positively to the welfare of cats and kittens in need.

While fostering does have its challenges, the rewards of providing a temporary home to foster cats  in need far outweigh any potential drawbacks. Despite the existence of cons, the overall benefits of fostering make it a worthwhile experience. It’s important to approach fostering with a positive mindset, recognizing that the opportunity to make a positive impact on foster cats’ lives are invaluable.

Fostering cats is crucial for rescue groups and shelters. It offers a nurturing environment for stray cats, preventing them from roaming free and facing unnecessary euthanasia. Spaying and neutering during foster care reduces overpopulation. Fostering also provides essential medical care, socialization, and insights into their personalities, ensuring suitable adoptions.