[Permanent Preservation Edition] Don't fail your rescue cat trial! Preparation and how to help them settle in

More and more people are choosing to welcome a rescue cat into their family instead of buying one from a pet shop.

As "rescue cats" gain media attention, it has become well-known that becoming a foster parent to a rescue cat requires a screening process and a trial period.

In this article, we explain the "trial period," which is vital for both the cat and the owner, including what to prepare and how to help the cat settle in, along with tips to ensure the process goes smoothly.

What is a rescue cat trial?

A "trial" is a probationary period where you actually live with the rescue cat.

During this period, you assess whether the rescue cat is likely to adjust to the new environment and whether it can get along with any resident pets.

Why a trial is necessary for cat adoption

The trial is a mechanism adopted by most rescue organizations, animal welfare centers, and rescue cat cafes, and it is also a period for the rescuers to verify whether it is safe to finalize the adoption.

If it is determined after or during the trial that you "cannot keep the cat" or that "adoption is not possible," the cat will be returned to the rescuer.

The trial is essential not only for the rescue cat but also for alleviating the anxieties of both the prospective owner and the rescuer.

How long does the trial period last?

Since it is said that it takes two weeks for a cat to get used to a new environment, the trial period for rescue cats is often set to two weeks.

This period also serves to help you get to know the cat's true personality, preventing trouble from "not being what I expected." For this reason, some organizations set a trial period of up to about one month.

To become a rescue cat parent, you must meet the criteria set by the rescue organization.

For instance, the Tokyo Metropolitan Animal Welfare Consultation Center has requirements such as "must be a Tokyo resident aged 20–60," "currently not keeping any dogs or cats," and "must have attended the center's pre-adoption seminar."

Adoption conditions and fees vary by organization, so be sure to check them in advance.

Things to prepare before the trial begins

Once you decide to become a foster parent, you need to learn how to care for the cat and prepare necessary supplies.

Also, talk to everyone living in your household and ensure you are on the same page regarding "keeping the cat strictly indoors," "preventing accidental ingestion," "heatstroke prevention," and "spaying/neutering and vaccinations."

First, implement escape prevention

To protect the cat from accidents, illnesses, and unwanted pregnancies, most adoption criteria require the cat to be kept "strictly indoors."

You must install escape prevention measures on doors, windows, and balconies using nets or fences.

Prepare your living environment

Things that seem harmless to humans can be dangerous for cats.

For example, power cords and outlets can pose a risk of electric shock, so you need to prevent the cat from messing with them. Also, properly tidy away items that could be accidentally swallowed or toxic substances.

Prepare cat supplies

Prepare the necessities for the trial. It is better to use the same cat food and cat litter the cat is already used to, so confirm with the rescuer before purchasing.

Cages can sometimes be borrowed from the rescuer.

The following items can be purchased after the trial is over and the adoption is officially finalized.

Take it slow: let the cat set the pace during the trial

For a rescue cat trial, the rescuer will bring the cat to your home. They will also check the living environment at this time, so be sure to have everything ready.

Give them space at first

Cats are sensitive to environmental changes and may be frightened after being taken to an unfamiliar place.

Suppress the urge to stroke or hold the cat, and let them settle down first. You can cover the cage with a bath towel to help them stay calm.

If they seem to be settling in, open the cage door and wait for the cat to come out on its own. Start in just one room, and gradually expand their range of movement.

Start by introducing a single finger

Because cats are cautious, some may dislike being touched by strangers. Start by extending one index finger in front of their nose to let them get used to your scent.

Gradually progress to stroking or playing with toys, depending on how the cat behaves. Value the bond of trust with your cat and slowly close the distance.

If you already have other cats or dogs, start by exchanging scents. Let them get used to each other while prioritizing the resident pets.

Cases where a rescue cat trial fails

Unfortunately, there are times when a trial ends in failure and the cat is returned to the rescuer.

• A family member develops a cat allergy
• Complaints from neighbors
• You or a family member is hospitalized
• Job transfer or long-term business trip
• Poor compatibility with existing pets

These are common reasons for trial failures. Additionally, cats are sometimes returned due to reasons such as:

• Night-time yowling is too loud to sleep
• Inappropriate elimination (house-soiling)
• Biting habits
• The cat won't bond with the owner
• Damaging walls or furniture

Even if this is your first time living with a cat, many issues can be avoided if you learn about feline behavior before the trial.

To spare the cat from a sad experience, it is worth understanding their habits and how to deal with problem behaviors.

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Conclusion

A trial is less of an "on-trial" period for the adopter, and more of a period for the cat to get accustomed to its new environment.

To avoid placing a burden on the cat, the key is to understand its feelings and habits, and to let it adjust slowly and without rushing.

While there can be many restrictions to becoming a foster parent, a major benefit is being able to consult with experienced rescuers at any time. Another benefit is the chance to adopt adult cats, whose personalities are already well-defined and who tend to be calmer than kittens.

We hope you will consider "becoming a foster parent" as an option when looking to meet your new cat.