https://www.cats.org.uk/richmond This link will open a new window.

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs.
Run by a small team of dedicated, cat-loving volunteers, we're passionate about improving the lives of cats and kittens in Richmond & Spelthorne, working to find loving new homes for local cats in our care, and lost and found cats, as well as general education and awareness within the Richmond & Spelthorne area.

A bit about this role

Across the UK, many cats are cared for by volunteer fosterers who provide a stable, safe and loving environment in their homes or in purpose-built pens in their gardens. They provide vital hands-on care and accommodation to stray or abandoned cats or cats whose owners could sadly no longer keep them, and are part of a dedicated team of volunteers committed to finding new homes for cats in need. Our fosterers carry out this role with support from the Richmond and Spelthorne branch

What can you expect to be doing?
- Meeting the needs of the cats and kittens in your care
- Cleaning and looking after the cats’ environment and equipment
- Feeding, grooming and administering medication
- Spending time enriching the cats’ experience in care including; play, exercise and stroking
- Maintaining high standards of animal welfare

What are the benefits to you and the cats?
You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge and make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens in need by caring for them before they find new, loving homes. You will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers.

We’re looking for someone with
- A dedicated suitable spare room in your house
- Basic knowledge of cats, cat care and understanding their needs
- An appreciation of cat welfare and hygiene standards
- Good interpersonal skills
- Patience, commitment and empathy
- Willingness to be part of a team

Time expectation
Our volunteer fosterers usually spend one and a half hours per day on average (around 10 to 13 hours per week) in this role, but this might vary depending on the cat In order to help you feel confident in your fosterer role we ask that prior to looking after your first foster cat you complete some online cat welfare learning modules.