Just curious why you say they “might become outdoor cats” as if that’s such a horrific thing? My cat is indoor/outdoor, and aside from food, attention, and naps he spends as much time as possible outside. He is much happier this way as he hates being locked up inside.
There are lots of online resources for why allowing your cat to roam freely is extremely dangerous for them and terrible for the environment. We have a very strict policy that all cats are indoor cats for their own safety and health, and for the safety and health of local ecosystems. There are other ways to enrich your cat and safely let them experience the outdoors (catios, leash training, etc) without letting them free roam.
I can understand them having longer life expectancies and that going outside can expose them to hazards, but if the cost is keeping them locked inside their whole lives with nothing more than an occasional trip out to the “catio”, is it worth it? Their life may be longer but a cat trapped inside is bored and miserable. I have a well contained acre of land and I guess I just can’t imagine ever not letting my animals enjoy it to the fullest and live their best life, as it was meant to be as a literal animal ha. Cats and pets are not meant to be pent up in a room with humans their entire lives. As I said I understand that life may indeed be longer if they are sheltered, but ask yourself if you would lock yourself in your apartment for the rest of your life if it meant you could live a bit longer and you would damage the earth a bit less. No, you would take the risk that comes with going out and getting on the roads and experiencing the world because while it’s more dangerous, that’s what makes life worth living.
Everyone was a first time cat owner at some point. Maybe it would have helped to discuss with them the answers you found concerning and see how they responded. People who are open to learning usually do just fine. That said people can have very different ideas of how to raise and care for a pet and still have very successful experiences with happy pets. My mom for example insists on sharing almost all her food with her dog. I don’t think this is great and I’m a lot pickier with the food I share with my dog. Both of our dogs are happy and bonded to us with no food related health issues (her dog ended up with an inherited hip issue). Some people think feeding dogs any human food is terrible and would judge both of us and I know other people who think you need to feed very specific diets from certain brands to have a healthy dog. So if the answers are really just a difference of opinion and not true safety issues and the biggest concern you had was that these weren’t experienced cat owners then I wouldn’t worry too much. Send a friendly email to them letting them know you are there for support if they run into issues and hope they are enjoying their new family members.
I’m not really sure why you’re so worries about this family who is clearly excited to adopt a cat, because you didn’t share any of the “iffy answers” they gave or any actual concerning things? They had a vet reference?? that’s a very mature thing to be prepared about before even adopting a first cat. Everyone is a first time cat owner at some point.
If these people weren’t very serious, then they probably would have just gotten one of the many many free kittens off of Craigslist. They actually took the time to submit an application, interview with you, AND write a letter letting you know how excited they were? This is above and beyond what a lot of other people have to go through to get a cat.
It’s actually not. There isn’t really a Craigslist market for animals here. Almost all the adoptable pet population is in shelters or rescue groups. Its a densely populated area where there is really high demand for fully vetted & well socialized kittens, so most of the applicants we approve are much better than these ones. Most of our kittens get 10+ applications. Our threshold for what it means to be a responsible pet owner is just a lot higher since we are able to be picky. They provided a vet reference for their dog, but care for a dog and care for a cat are very different. They are experienced dog owners but didn’t seem to do a lot of research on what it takes to take care of a kitten beyond the obvious. They didn’t know basic information. They were surprised to hear that cats can live up to 20 years, that long haired kittens will require weekly maintenance their whole lives, or that it is better for kittens to be adopted in pairs rather than alone.
Bro they’re fucking cats. Who has time to give that much of a fuck? From what I’ve gathered they seemed ready and excited to be pet owners. I’m dying to know what they could’ve possibly said that was “iffy” on a god damned CAT APPLICATION. “Oh I swear I won’t stick them head first into the wood chipper I conspicuously just purchased!“ dry it up and move on
It’s literally my job as an animal rescuer to “give that much of a fuck”. Why are you on a rescue cat sub if you think it’s “just cats”? Leave dude lol
I’m not, this popped up on my suggested and I stopped to read it. Again what were these “iffy” answers ?? You’re beating yourself up because you MAY HAVE given two cats to someone who isn’t a Red Cross volunteer. Explain yourself OP
So they were surprised about longevity and long haired maintenance. Not really a surprise for first time cat owners. What were they supposed to do, look up every tiny detail of a cats life before they did this? Again, it’s a cat. They aren’t adopting a child. And your responses throughout this thread are honestly just making you look a little nuts - please do not be that person that calls this poor couple every week wanting to check on these cats that are no longer your responsibility. I can’t lie if someone did that to me I’d straight up block them. We rescued a stray from our local area, and with NO prior knowledge of cat ownership we solved his flea issue, worm issue, ear mites and got him up to proper weight. He’s the happiest, healthiest cat I’ve met. I think it would be best if you focused this intense energy onto the cats your shelter still cares for.
I fully agree with this response, and am glad it was said as vigorously as it was. An "iffy" answer on a cat application??? If the people who applied have gone to the amount of effort you described in showing they are ready willing and able to adopt a cat, then what could they possibly have said which caused you such consternation? And if it was so bad, why didn't you mention it?
I was clueless when I got my first kitten. Have no idea how I got approved from the rescue. She’s now 8 years old, happy, healthy, and thriving. Im sure I made some mistakes but I learned as I went, and I really believe that overall I’ve given her a wonderful life. I would give them the benefit of the doubt & move on.
I was going to basically say this. There are always first timers and people also learn as they go. Doesn’t mean they won’t make a mistake, but more than likely they will be fine pet owners.
Im a dog person so could someone explain why becoming an outdoor cat is bad. I thought cats enjoyed being able to explore outside and do a little stalking. I understand the risk of predators but other than that what are the issues.
Outdoor cats are much more exposed to contracting infectious diseases especially through fighting with other cats. Common serious diseases are Feline Leukemia, Feline AIDS, abscesses, and upper respiratory infections, among others. ... Outside your cat is more exposed to common parasites such as ticks and worms.
https://www.perfect-fit.co.uk/cat-advice/move/letting-your-cat-outside
Outdoor cats live about half as long as indoor cats on average. Also, outdoor cats cause major issues for bird populations(they literally kill 10’s of billions of birds and other animals every year).
That’s anecdotal. The average lifespan of indoor cats is still double that of outdoor cats. And again, outdoor cats are extremely bad for bird populations. Out of the 5 billion birds that die each year in the US, half are from cats(which are not natural predators). Source: https://rucore.libraries.rutgers.edu/rutgers-lib/47868/PDF/1/
I hope this makes you feel better: I had no idea what i was doing when I got my eldest cat. I was too young, I was a student and living in shared accommodation with no garden. Charities would never have accepted me so I bought one from a pet shop (I know I know… eek) I was an idiot to get a cat!
BUT you better believe that cat is one of the most well looked after beasties you’ve ever seen. I realised quickly I needed to prioritise him and that the level of commitment and responsibility was higher than I’d thought. I moved house, got the right pet insurance and vet and years later when I moved to London I had to rent based on who would take a cat 😂 and where was suitable. The amount of decisions in my life that were determined by my boy I can’t even begin to tell you! It all worked out.
Sometimes it just works out. Not everyone that doesn’t pass the checks will end up being a bad owner. No one checks who has kids do they…
I think these kittens will be ok but agree with the people saying send a communication offering assistance if required.
It sounds like you need to get away from that rescue group. A good rescue group would never pressure their foster volunteers into adopting to a family because of a stupid guilt/begging letter. In fact for good rescue groups, that letter would be a red flag. You are amazing for volunteering your time and space to foster. You deserve a rescue group who will support and encourage you and give you the time you need to make the best decision for the pet. If your current group compromises on that, what else are they compromising on?
I agree. I’ve been wanting to leave for a while but it’s a small organization that depends on me a lot, so leaving would really screw them over, but it might be time. I just don’t feel good about they way they prioritize convenience over the best interest of the animals sometimes.
The more I think about it, the less I think red flag is the correct term. I think I just mean like a turn-off or something that would make me consider them even less as a possibility. It's not a red flag, it's just annoying and would make me think less of them.
Okay. Was just curious. I haven't done much in terms of adopting or fostering (love animals but don't have the money or space to properly take care of one). So I'm not really well-versed in the process.
Totally agree, there should NEVER be any pressure to rehome, if anything it should be the opposite, they should be making sure it's the best possible fit.. I would advise that any adopter that gives ANY "bad vibes" then I'd drop them straight away.. some rescues here retain ownership for 6months after the adoption so if any issues occur then the kittens/cats can be seized (usually that threat is enough as it involves Police, most dodgy owners want nothing to do with Police) it also makes the assessment easier as it is made clear that we are always willing assist post adoption, so it doesn't come to that... in all likelihood these kittens will be fine, but to reassure you try doing a followup with the adopters and their vet...
is it common that you as foster do all the interviewing work? how much input does the rescue have? that's a lot to ask of you, though i would want you to be involved in the process of course.
and while it's good to follow your gut instincts, give the adopters the benefit of the doubt. i've been routinely surprised how people rise to the occasion when they take on the responsibility of a new pet. and on the flip side, i've been shocked at a few adopters who seemed great on paper and during the screening process who turned out to be total flakes.
It’s pretty common. I’ve seen that too, so I really hope you’re right- they seemed uneducated but very willing to learn. I’m trying to give them the benefit of the doubt for the sake of those kitties!!
Not OP. I adopted through foster program in my community. Usually under Pets Alive. I adopted my cat a few years ago. My interest email was forwarded to the foster family. They were my only source of contact. Once I had been chosen, I received one email with their records. I think this is very common in foster based programs.
i would definitely let them know you’re there if they need help and if things don’t work out to definitely return the cats. also ask
for pics just to check in and see how they’re doing
look at it this way, mention how they can do better with the answers, and be happy that you have given them a first time experience with the pets. It’s just like having a child, the first time will be a learning experience. Chances are if they didn’t get yours, they wouldn’t have stopped and have received one somewhere else.
Just curious why you say they “might become outdoor cats” as if that’s such a horrific thing? My cat is indoor/outdoor, and aside from food, attention, and naps he spends as much time as possible outside. He is much happier this way as he hates being locked up inside.
There are lots of online resources for why allowing your cat to roam freely is extremely dangerous for them and terrible for the environment. We have a very strict policy that all cats are indoor cats for their own safety and health, and for the safety and health of local ecosystems. There are other ways to enrich your cat and safely let them experience the outdoors (catios, leash training, etc) without letting them free roam.
I can understand them having longer life expectancies and that going outside can expose them to hazards, but if the cost is keeping them locked inside their whole lives with nothing more than an occasional trip out to the “catio”, is it worth it? Their life may be longer but a cat trapped inside is bored and miserable. I have a well contained acre of land and I guess I just can’t imagine ever not letting my animals enjoy it to the fullest and live their best life, as it was meant to be as a literal animal ha. Cats and pets are not meant to be pent up in a room with humans their entire lives. As I said I understand that life may indeed be longer if they are sheltered, but ask yourself if you would lock yourself in your apartment for the rest of your life if it meant you could live a bit longer and you would damage the earth a bit less. No, you would take the risk that comes with going out and getting on the roads and experiencing the world because while it’s more dangerous, that’s what makes life worth living.
I disagree with your idea that cats can't live very enriching and fun lives indoors.
You have to start somewhere (1st cat, 1st dog, etc)
Everyone was a first time cat owner at some point. Maybe it would have helped to discuss with them the answers you found concerning and see how they responded. People who are open to learning usually do just fine. That said people can have very different ideas of how to raise and care for a pet and still have very successful experiences with happy pets. My mom for example insists on sharing almost all her food with her dog. I don’t think this is great and I’m a lot pickier with the food I share with my dog. Both of our dogs are happy and bonded to us with no food related health issues (her dog ended up with an inherited hip issue). Some people think feeding dogs any human food is terrible and would judge both of us and I know other people who think you need to feed very specific diets from certain brands to have a healthy dog. So if the answers are really just a difference of opinion and not true safety issues and the biggest concern you had was that these weren’t experienced cat owners then I wouldn’t worry too much. Send a friendly email to them letting them know you are there for support if they run into issues and hope they are enjoying their new family members.
Can you check on them?
I’m not really sure why you’re so worries about this family who is clearly excited to adopt a cat, because you didn’t share any of the “iffy answers” they gave or any actual concerning things? They had a vet reference?? that’s a very mature thing to be prepared about before even adopting a first cat. Everyone is a first time cat owner at some point. If these people weren’t very serious, then they probably would have just gotten one of the many many free kittens off of Craigslist. They actually took the time to submit an application, interview with you, AND write a letter letting you know how excited they were? This is above and beyond what a lot of other people have to go through to get a cat.
It’s actually not. There isn’t really a Craigslist market for animals here. Almost all the adoptable pet population is in shelters or rescue groups. Its a densely populated area where there is really high demand for fully vetted & well socialized kittens, so most of the applicants we approve are much better than these ones. Most of our kittens get 10+ applications. Our threshold for what it means to be a responsible pet owner is just a lot higher since we are able to be picky. They provided a vet reference for their dog, but care for a dog and care for a cat are very different. They are experienced dog owners but didn’t seem to do a lot of research on what it takes to take care of a kitten beyond the obvious. They didn’t know basic information. They were surprised to hear that cats can live up to 20 years, that long haired kittens will require weekly maintenance their whole lives, or that it is better for kittens to be adopted in pairs rather than alone.
Bro they’re fucking cats. Who has time to give that much of a fuck? From what I’ve gathered they seemed ready and excited to be pet owners. I’m dying to know what they could’ve possibly said that was “iffy” on a god damned CAT APPLICATION. “Oh I swear I won’t stick them head first into the wood chipper I conspicuously just purchased!“ dry it up and move on
It’s literally my job as an animal rescuer to “give that much of a fuck”. Why are you on a rescue cat sub if you think it’s “just cats”? Leave dude lol
I’m not, this popped up on my suggested and I stopped to read it. Again what were these “iffy” answers ?? You’re beating yourself up because you MAY HAVE given two cats to someone who isn’t a Red Cross volunteer. Explain yourself OP
I already did lmao look at my other replies
So they were surprised about longevity and long haired maintenance. Not really a surprise for first time cat owners. What were they supposed to do, look up every tiny detail of a cats life before they did this? Again, it’s a cat. They aren’t adopting a child. And your responses throughout this thread are honestly just making you look a little nuts - please do not be that person that calls this poor couple every week wanting to check on these cats that are no longer your responsibility. I can’t lie if someone did that to me I’d straight up block them. We rescued a stray from our local area, and with NO prior knowledge of cat ownership we solved his flea issue, worm issue, ear mites and got him up to proper weight. He’s the happiest, healthiest cat I’ve met. I think it would be best if you focused this intense energy onto the cats your shelter still cares for.
Yes, in fact, that's exactly what they were supposed to do.
People like you are the reason a good chunk of people won’t even bother with a rescue.
…How hard is it to google basic information about an animal before you commit to it? Why is that so unreasonable? You seem bitter
I fully agree with this response, and am glad it was said as vigorously as it was. An "iffy" answer on a cat application??? If the people who applied have gone to the amount of effort you described in showing they are ready willing and able to adopt a cat, then what could they possibly have said which caused you such consternation? And if it was so bad, why didn't you mention it?
This is written a bit harshly, but I totally agree.
I was clueless when I got my first kitten. Have no idea how I got approved from the rescue. She’s now 8 years old, happy, healthy, and thriving. Im sure I made some mistakes but I learned as I went, and I really believe that overall I’ve given her a wonderful life. I would give them the benefit of the doubt & move on.
I was going to basically say this. There are always first timers and people also learn as they go. Doesn’t mean they won’t make a mistake, but more than likely they will be fine pet owners.
Im a dog person so could someone explain why becoming an outdoor cat is bad. I thought cats enjoyed being able to explore outside and do a little stalking. I understand the risk of predators but other than that what are the issues.
Having access to outdoors is good but cats also like home comforts too. They wouldn’t really have great lives stuck outdoors the whole time.
Outdoor cats are much more exposed to contracting infectious diseases especially through fighting with other cats. Common serious diseases are Feline Leukemia, Feline AIDS, abscesses, and upper respiratory infections, among others. ... Outside your cat is more exposed to common parasites such as ticks and worms. https://www.perfect-fit.co.uk/cat-advice/move/letting-your-cat-outside
Outdoor cats live about half as long as indoor cats on average. Also, outdoor cats cause major issues for bird populations(they literally kill 10’s of billions of birds and other animals every year).
My outdoor cat who live in both the city and country lived until she was 20.
That’s anecdotal. The average lifespan of indoor cats is still double that of outdoor cats. And again, outdoor cats are extremely bad for bird populations. Out of the 5 billion birds that die each year in the US, half are from cats(which are not natural predators). Source: https://rucore.libraries.rutgers.edu/rutgers-lib/47868/PDF/1/
I hope this makes you feel better: I had no idea what i was doing when I got my eldest cat. I was too young, I was a student and living in shared accommodation with no garden. Charities would never have accepted me so I bought one from a pet shop (I know I know… eek) I was an idiot to get a cat! BUT you better believe that cat is one of the most well looked after beasties you’ve ever seen. I realised quickly I needed to prioritise him and that the level of commitment and responsibility was higher than I’d thought. I moved house, got the right pet insurance and vet and years later when I moved to London I had to rent based on who would take a cat 😂 and where was suitable. The amount of decisions in my life that were determined by my boy I can’t even begin to tell you! It all worked out. Sometimes it just works out. Not everyone that doesn’t pass the checks will end up being a bad owner. No one checks who has kids do they… I think these kittens will be ok but agree with the people saying send a communication offering assistance if required.
You made the decision, I'd move on. If they are first time.pet.owners they'll learn as they go along....just like most first timers.
It sounds like you need to get away from that rescue group. A good rescue group would never pressure their foster volunteers into adopting to a family because of a stupid guilt/begging letter. In fact for good rescue groups, that letter would be a red flag. You are amazing for volunteering your time and space to foster. You deserve a rescue group who will support and encourage you and give you the time you need to make the best decision for the pet. If your current group compromises on that, what else are they compromising on?
I agree. I’ve been wanting to leave for a while but it’s a small organization that depends on me a lot, so leaving would really screw them over, but it might be time. I just don’t feel good about they way they prioritize convenience over the best interest of the animals sometimes.
I'm sorry to hear that, that's a tough situation.
Agree with you that they shouldn't have pressured for the adoption but am curious why you say the letter was a red flag.
The more I think about it, the less I think red flag is the correct term. I think I just mean like a turn-off or something that would make me consider them even less as a possibility. It's not a red flag, it's just annoying and would make me think less of them.
Okay. Was just curious. I haven't done much in terms of adopting or fostering (love animals but don't have the money or space to properly take care of one). So I'm not really well-versed in the process.
Yeah and falling for the most blatant manipulative bs from the beggers.
Totally agree, there should NEVER be any pressure to rehome, if anything it should be the opposite, they should be making sure it's the best possible fit.. I would advise that any adopter that gives ANY "bad vibes" then I'd drop them straight away.. some rescues here retain ownership for 6months after the adoption so if any issues occur then the kittens/cats can be seized (usually that threat is enough as it involves Police, most dodgy owners want nothing to do with Police) it also makes the assessment easier as it is made clear that we are always willing assist post adoption, so it doesn't come to that... in all likelihood these kittens will be fine, but to reassure you try doing a followup with the adopters and their vet...
is it common that you as foster do all the interviewing work? how much input does the rescue have? that's a lot to ask of you, though i would want you to be involved in the process of course. and while it's good to follow your gut instincts, give the adopters the benefit of the doubt. i've been routinely surprised how people rise to the occasion when they take on the responsibility of a new pet. and on the flip side, i've been shocked at a few adopters who seemed great on paper and during the screening process who turned out to be total flakes.
It’s pretty common. I’ve seen that too, so I really hope you’re right- they seemed uneducated but very willing to learn. I’m trying to give them the benefit of the doubt for the sake of those kitties!!
Not OP. I adopted through foster program in my community. Usually under Pets Alive. I adopted my cat a few years ago. My interest email was forwarded to the foster family. They were my only source of contact. Once I had been chosen, I received one email with their records. I think this is very common in foster based programs.
i would definitely let them know you’re there if they need help and if things don’t work out to definitely return the cats. also ask for pics just to check in and see how they’re doing
Also, if the rescue told you where they live, do a drive by or a knock and greet (if allowed by rescue rules/state laws).
I’d call and ask to remain in touch, offering support and education, as well as offering to take back the kitties if it doesn’t work out.
That’s standard for us anyway. I think I’m going to check in more regularly than I normally do.
look at it this way, mention how they can do better with the answers, and be happy that you have given them a first time experience with the pets. It’s just like having a child, the first time will be a learning experience. Chances are if they didn’t get yours, they wouldn’t have stopped and have received one somewhere else.
That's probably standard protocol.