The ARL is seeking on-call foster families for neonatal kittens

If you live in the South End of Boston or in Dedham/very close proximity to our Dedham shelter and have a flexible schedule, a cozy home, and big heart, please read on….

Our Boston and Dedham shelters developed the On-CallNeonatal Kitten Foster Program in response to the need for trained individuals to care for abandoned nursing kittens found in Massachusetts each year, primarily between the months of May through October.

The term “neonatal” refers to a kitten during its0-4 weeks of life. Kittens at this stage are very delicate and are completely reliant on their mother for protection, warmth, and nutrition.

When a neonatal kitten comes in without a mother, it’s up to human caregivers to step in to provide care for these little ones.

Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about the on-call neonatal kitten foster program:

Q: What do neonatal foster volunteers need to do?

A: We’re looking for foster families who are available on-call to take in one to three kittens at a time for a minimum of 4-5 weeks, with some flexibility on an emergency basis. Prior experience preferred, but not necessary.

You need to be able to stay with the kitten(s) for a significant part of the day and dedicate bottle-feeding time every 2-4 hours.

Q: Will I get training?

A: Yes, absolutely! We will provide you with:

Foster care orientation

Neonatal kitten bottle feeding training

A bottle and KMR (Kitten Milk Replacement) formula starter kit

We also provide emergency contacts, so you have access to support 24-hours a day when you are fostering kittens in your home.

Q: Where will I need to go to pick up kittens?

A: We are looking for foster volunteers who live close to our Boston shelter located at 10 Chandler Street, Boston, MA, and our Dedham shelter located at 55 Anna’s Place, Dedham, MA. Because kittens frequently come in at the end of the day, we need volunteers who live in close proximity who can quickly and easily come pick them up.

Q. How do I apply to become a neonatal kitten foster volunteer?

A. Click here to fill out a foster volunteer application

For more information about the ARL’s Neonatal Kitten Foster Program, contact:

CCurran@arlboston.org at our Boston Shelter

BFinn@arlboston.org at our Dedham Shelter

Though caring for neonatal kittens requires time and patience, helping a fragile newborn become a healthy adoptable kitten is an extremely rewarding experience!

Additional fostering opportunities

We’re also looking for foster families to care for:

Cats with medical conditions

Cats with behavioral challenges, such as litter box training and fearfulness.

Dogs with behavioral challenges, such as anxiety and fearfulness.

Training is always provided!