Foster a Tiny Cat

Fostering saves lives: One more TCAR foster home for even a single night means we can say yes to helping one more cat. If you have questions, please don't hesitate to email us.

Why foster?

Fostering means opening your home to a cat or kitten temporarily, providing love, care, and a safe indoor space to decompress and receive individualized care and attention they need to thrive while they wait for adoption—or, in some cases, while they recover from surgery or medical care before returning to their outdoor home. Fosters play a crucial role in helping us assess a cat’s personality, provide socialization, and prepare them for life in a forever home. As a foster, you play a vital role in each cat’s journey to the happy and healthy home or outdoor life they deserve.

How do I sign up to foster?

It’s easy! Just review our Foster Agreement and fill out our Foster Application , and our foster coordinator will reach out to learn more about you and answer any questions. Once you're officially on our Foster Roster, we’ll work together to match you with the right foster cat or kitten for your home.

Am I eligible to foster?

If you’re 18 or older and can provide a safe, indoor-only environment for a cat or kittens, you’re likely eligible! You don’t need prior experience—just a willingness to learn and a little space in your home and heart. Many of our fosters work full-time, have other pets, or live in apartments. We’ll work with you to find the right fit for your household and lifestyle.

Does fostering cost anything?

Tiny Cat Animal Rescue covers all veterinary care. We ask that fosters cover the cost of food and litter whenever possible, as this helps us stretch our limited resources to care for more cats. That said, we understand that’s not always feasible—so in certain cases, we may be able to provide supplies if needed. The most important thing you provide is daily care, a safe indoor space, and plenty of love. And if you do choose to cover supplies, don’t forget to save your receipts—because we’re a registered nonprofit,* your unreimbursed foster expenses may be tax-deductible!

How long will I have a foster cat?

It depends! Some cats only need a place to recover from spay/neuter surgery for a day or two, while others may need several weeks or even months—especially shy or young cats who are still learning to trust and grow. Kittens must stay with their siblings (and sometimes their mama) for at least 8 weeks. And many shy or undersocialized cats take time to come out of their shells before their personalities truly shine and they’re ready to be matched with a forever home. Some fosters prefer short-term placements so they can help more cats without getting too attached, while others enjoy working with shy or nervous cats who need extra time and consistency to build trust. You can let us know what kind of time commitment works for you—we offer flexible fostering options, they're listed on our About Fostering page!

What if I’ve never fostered before?

That’s okay! Many of our best fosters started with no prior experience. We provide written guidance and will be there to support you through the process. If you need anything while fostering, we’re just a message away. You’ll never be on your own.

I'm interested in adopting, but want to try fostering first. Is that possible?

Yes! If adoption is on your mind, fostering can be a meaningful way to start. Not only do you get to know what it’s like to care for a cat, but fostering also lets you learn what kind of personality and temperament best fits your home and lifestyle—all while giving a homeless cat a safe and supportive place to land along the way.

What if I fall in love with my foster cat?

It happens all the time! If you decide to adopt your foster, we’ll guide you through the process. Just let us know.

What happens if my foster cat isn't a good match or I can no longer foster?

We try to be as flexible as possible. If your foster situation isn’t working out for any reason, we’ll find a new placement for the cat and support you through the transition. If a specific foster cat isn’t the right fit for your home, we’ll gladly work with you to find a better match. You’re never stuck or obligated to continue beyond your comfort level. Please keep in mind that many of our cats once lived outdoors or in unstable situations, so they may need time, patience, and compassion to adjust. Every cat is different—some settle in quickly, while others need more time to feel safe and let their sweet personalities shine.