Pet foster program of VAW shelter clients in Ottawa and surrounding areas

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Important Information

Information regarding the link between domestic violence and animal abuse

Items You Need in a Basic First Aid Kit

What should you keep inside your pet’s first aid kit? For a detailed use of these items, click here.

  • thermometer
  • peroxide
  • salt
  • antibiotic ointment
  • Benadryl liquid
  • hot/cold packs
  • sanitary pads
  • gauze pads and gauze tape
  • cotton balls
  • tensor or vet wrap
  • telfa pads
  • scissors, tweezers and tick key

Fostering Cats

Since cats really hate change or find it harder to adjust to new surroundings, there are a few things we should be aware of and expect when fostering cats:

  • Cats will find a quiet & secure place to hide (maybe for a few days). Always leave fresh water and food out.
  • Show the cat where the litter box is.
  • Let them investigate their new surrounding themselves.
  • If other animals are in the home, NEVER force an introduction.
  • Stressed cats stop grooming!
  • Stressed cats may stop eating. Unfortunately, if cats (unlike other animals) go off food or their caloric intake is significantly decreased, a serious life-threatening condition called (Feline Hepatic Lipidosis) could occur. Sometimes something as simple as changing a cat’s diet will cause anorexia. If the cat is not eating, it may be necessary to force feed a high-calorie diet, warming the food to enhance the flavour. Syringe water so the cat doesn’t get dehydrated.
  • If no urine is in the litter box check cat for hydration. One sign is if gums are tacky, or if you twist the fur at the back of the neck, see if the skin bounces back.
  • If the cat keeps going to the litter box and seems to be straining to urinate and doesn’t produce any urine you will need to call the vet.
  • If you are concerned about a foster animal’s health, call your coordinator and the Intake Vet!
  • Be watchful that the new foster cat is eating and drinking!

A calm, patient and loving demeanor will win over your foster cat.