Cat Foster Carer Expression of Interest

At Out of the Woods Rescue, foster carers play a critical role in helping cats heal, grow and prepare for adoption. Every cat has different needs—some just need a couch to crash on, while others need a bit more time, patience and support. Below is a quick guide to the types of foster placements you may be offered. 

• Adult cats: Cats over 12 months of age. These cats are usually independent and settled in their personalities. They often just need a safe, loving space until they find a forever home.
• Kittens: Cats under 12 months. They can be playful, affectionate and energetic little tornadoes. Kittens are usually placed in pairs or into homes with other cats due to their social needs. Young kittens are unable to be rehomed until a minimum of 8 weeks of age. 
• Neonatal orphaned kittens: Newborn kittens (typically under 5 weeks old) without a mother. They require intensive care, including bottle feeding every few hours, temperature regulation and help with toileting. These tiny babies are incredibly vulnerable, and despite best efforts, the mortality rate can be high. It’s a rewarding but emotionally demanding role.
• Pregnant mums: Expecting cats who need a calm, quiet home to give birth and raise their kittens safely. Carers monitor the mum during labour and help monitor the health of the newborns. Sadly, complications can occur, and it’s not uncommon for some kittens to be stillborn or pass away in the early days.
• Nursing mums: Mums caring for young kittens. These placements require space for the family and a carer willing to monitor the health and development of both mum and kittens. Even with maternal care, not all kittens survive—kitten mortality in the early weeks can be distressingly high.
• Cats with medical needs/medical recovery: Cats recovering from surgery, illness or injury. These cats may require medication, vet follow-ups or rest in a stress-free environment.
• Scared/unsocialised cats: Cats that are timid, fearful or under-socialised with humans. These cats may need time to decompress, learn to trust, and build confidence through gentle interaction at their own pace.
• Emergency/short-term placements: Temporary care for cats in urgent need—this might be anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the situation.

By submitting this application, you acknowledge and agree to the following terms and conditions. If your application is successful, this form will form the basis of your adoption contract with Out of the Woods Rescue Melbourne Ltd (OOTW).

Fostering exclusivity
I agree not to foster animals for any other rescue organisations while I am actively fostering for OOTW, unless prior written approval is given by OOTW.

Covering basic care costs
I understand that food and litter will only be provided when donations are available (this unfortunately cannot be relied upon). I am willing and able to cover the cost of food, litter, and basic supplies for the foster cat in my care.

Indoor-only policy
I agree to keep my foster cat strictly indoors at all times. I understand that access to outdoor enclosures or catios is permitted, but free-roaming outdoor access is not allowed.

Health monitoring & communication
I agree to notify my OOTW representative as soon as I notice any signs of illness, injury or behavioural concern in my foster cat.

Veterinary care
I agree to take the foster cat to one of OOTW’s approved partner veterinary clinics when required. I understand that I must have prior approval before attending any vet, and that appointments must be booked by an authorised OOTW representative. I am willing and able to assist with transport if needed.

Communication
I agree to join and remain active in the OOTW Foster Carer Facebook Messenger group chat to receive important updates, ask questions, and stay connected with the OOTW team.

Foster care risk acknowledgement
I acknowledge that the temperament of animals rescued from pounds is often unknown at the time of intake. While OOTW will provide all available information, I accept that there is an inherent risk in fostering cats whose behaviour has not yet been fully assessed. I understand there may also be a risk of contagious diseases or parasites that could affect other animals or, in some cases, humans in the household. I accept the recommendation to keep all new foster cats in a 14-day quarantine to minimise this risk.

Ownership and decision-making
All foster cats remain the property of OOTW while in foster care. While foster carers play an essential role in the cat’s day-to-day wellbeing and are encouraged to share insights and input, all final decisions regarding the animal’s medical treatment, care plan and adoption are made by OOTW. This ensures consistency in our policies, welfare standards and rehoming processes.

Approval to foster is not guaranteed
I understand that submitting this application does not guarantee I will be approved as a foster carer with Out of the Woods Rescue (OOTW). Each application is assessed based on suitability, current needs and capacity of the rescue.

Accuracy of information
I confirm that all information provided in this application is true and complete to the best of my knowledge. I understand that providing false or misleading information may result in my application being declined or the adoption being voided.