[Written by a Veterinarian] How to Prepare for a Successful Foster Cat

We often hear stories like, "I fostered a rescue cat, but it just won't get used to me," or "It's frozen in its cage." The trial period is a crucial time to assess the compatibility between the rescue cat and the family, and to determine if you can truly care for it. We will explain how to succeed in the trial period so that you can complete the trial successfully and welcome the rescue cat into your family.

Why is a trial period necessary for rescue cats?

What is a trial period?

Many shelters implement a "trial period" where the rescue cat stays at your home before adoption. This trial period typically lasts about two weeks, during which prospective adopters assess the cat's compatibility and their ability to care for it. If there are no issues during the trial period, a formal adoption will take place once the trial concludes.

The meaning of the trial period

Cats are animals that do not adapt well to environmental changes. In the case of rescue cats, it is not uncommon for them to be adopted as adults. Once they become accustomed to the environment at the shelter, they wait for a new family at adoption events. For cats, this period involves drastic environmental changes and is prone to stress. The time it takes for a cat to get used to a new environment varies by individual, but many cats take two weeks to several months, and some may take over a year.

Also, they may become ill immediately after a change in environment. It is in this sense that a trial period is established. During the trial period, the person welcoming the cat must decide if they can truly care for it. Furthermore, if there is an existing cat, the trial period is also important for assessing compatibility with that cat and for the existing cat to accept the new arrival.

Mindset for a successful trial

Prepare necessary items and create a suitable environment for keeping a cat

Before fostering a rescue cat, prepare the necessary items and environment in advance. You may not be able to proceed with the trial if you are not prepared.

Carrier
Cat cage (tall type, such as 2 or 3 tiers)
Litter box
Food and water bowls
Cardboard box or other shelter for the cat to hide in
Large towel or blanket for privacy
A cat-only room for nervous cats

Some shelters may require double gates at the entrance or other measures to prevent escapes.

Preparing the necessary items for pet ownership also instills a sense of readiness and responsibility to welcome a rescue cat, allowing for smooth care even after the trial.

Do not touch the cat unnecessarily during the trial period

Once the trial actually begins, leave the cat alone except for feeding and litter box use until it gets used to the environment. Drape a towel over the cage to block outside views. If the cat's wariness eases and it approaches you on its own, gradually begin interacting with it.

Some cats may fall ill during the trial period, so if this happens, take them to the vet immediately.

Never rush

Depending on the cat's personality, it may take anywhere from two weeks to several months, or even over a year, to get used to a new environment. Do not expect them to fully adapt during the trial period. If you try to force physical interaction to make them adapt quickly, the cat may lose trust in humans. Aim to feel content if they can eat and use the litter box within the two weeks.

The trial period isn't the end of the adjustment phase; you need to continue helping the cat adapt at its own pace. Instead of returning the cat to the shelter just because it hasn't adapted by the end of the trial period, you need to observe it a bit longer. Whether the trial period can be extended depends on the shelter's policy, so be sure to check in advance.

Actions to avoid during the trial period

Forcing physical interaction

Do not force physical interaction or touch the cat if it shows signs of discomfort, even if you want it to get used to you quickly. Some cats are not used to being touched, and even those who are may refuse to be petted by strangers. Physical interaction is only allowed with trusted individuals, so observe them gently until a trusting relationship is established.

Once a trusting relationship is established and the cat can relax in its cage or approaches you, you can engage in physical interaction, such as offering treats by hand.

Failing to provide necessary care

While it's important to leave the cat alone as much as possible during the trial period, essential care such as feeding, litter box maintenance, and health management is absolutely necessary. Providing food and litter box care can help the cat open up more easily.

Also, during the trial period, symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting are prone to appear due to environmental changes. Do not wait to see how it goes; consult a veterinarian immediately.

Failing to provide necessary care constitutes "neglect," which is animal cruelty. Absolutely do not do such a thing.

Returning the cat because it hasn't adjusted

The trial period is short, only two weeks, and you should consider that only a small number of cats will adapt during that time. Most cats will still be very tense after two weeks, and it's fair to say that they will only just be managing to eat and use the litter box. Even cats that were friendly at the shelter can become completely aloof the moment they are brought home for a trial. Some people try to return them immediately when their expectations are not met. If the cat can eat and use the litter box inside the cage, there is still potential for them to become more accustomed to people. Instead of returning them right away, try to find things that they have managed to do, like "Today, they were able to do this."

However, if the cat refuses to eat or use the litter box for more than two days, or exhibits strong aggression, you should consult the shelter. They may be able to offer advice.

Summary

When adopting a rescue cat, there is a trial period for it to get used to your home. During this time, avoid forcing physical interaction with the cat and give it space. The key to a successful trial is to not rush and to care for the cat so that it can open up to you.