Give a kitten a safe start: SPCA launches summer foster appeal

Last year, SPCA cared for 13,116 cats and kittens through its Centres nationwide. The year before, that number reached 13,312, highlighting the ongoing need for foster homes during one of the busiest times of the year.

SPCA Chief Executive Todd Westwood says foster carers are a vital part of the organisation's lifesaving work.

"Every summer, thousands of vulnerable kittens come through our doors needing care, warmth and a safe place to thrive.

"Foster carers provide that crucial bridge between rescue and adoption, giving animals the best possible start while helping us continue to care for the many other animals who need our support," Todd says. "Fostering is one of the most rewarding ways people can make a difference. Whether you can help for a few days, a few weeks, or over the holiday period, every foster home creates space for more animals in need and helps save lives."

Throughout kitten season SPCA Centres care for neonatal kittens, nursing mothers and their litters, orphaned kittens, and timid and injured cats needing temporary care and support.

Foster carers help these animals heal, grow and prepare for their forever homes. At the same time, they ease pressure on SPCA teams and create room for more sick, vulnerable and abandoned animals to receive the care they need.

SPCA is particularly seeking foster homes for neonatal kittens who need bottle feeding and extra care, but there are opportunities to suit a range of lifestyles and experience levels, from caring for a mother cat and her kittens to fostering older kittens or adult cats.

SPCA provides all food, medication, equipment and training, meaning there is very little cost involved. Foster carers simply need the time and commitment to provide a safe, caring environment and be able to travel to and from their local SPCA Centre when needed.

"Not only does fostering transform an animal's life, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience, offering companionship, learning opportunities and the joy of watching vulnerable animals grow stronger every day," Todd says.