Bonnie Hays Animal Shelter Seeking Foster Families for Kittens and Cats

Every spring, summer and early fall, the Bonnie Hays Animal Shelter in Hillsboro is filled with kittens and mother cats.

“Kitten season is just starting. We’ve had our first few litters come to the shelter – and we know that many, many, many more are on the way,” says Animal Services Manager Deborah Wood.

Kittens must become big enough and healthy enough to be spayed or neutered before they can be adopted – usually at about 8 weeks of age and 2 pounds. “The best place for kittens to get ready for adoption is in a home. We’re looking for people who are willing to open their homes and help these little creatures get a good start on life,” says Wood.

In order to successfully foster kittens, you should be able to:

Commit through the duration of the foster period needed for each cat or kitten that you agree to take in as a foster pet. This is generally 7 to 90 days for kittens, depending on individual needs.

Provide a safe, warm, and stress-free place in a separate room of your home. Foster pets must be kept away from all other animals.

Dedicate a minimum of two hours per day to provide care and socialization to your foster pets.

Ability to travel to and from our shelter in Hillsboro with your foster pets to obtain any necessary vaccinations and other medical care.

“If you love kittens but aren’t ready to commit for more than a few weeks or months at a time, fostering may be the perfect arrangement for you to get your fix of cuteness — and you’ll also be helping homeless cats on their way to finding their forever home,” says Wood.

People who are interested in fostering kittens and cats should call 503-846-7039 for more information.