Got a foster pet but haven't the slightest clue what's going on under their fur?

Fostering Fridays' Foster Mummy

is here to help ...

ONE ... Puppies and kittens need 3 to 4 small meals a day and meals should be canned food according to age or shredded chicken meat (fish for cats) mixed with rice.

TWO ... Being young, they may get coughs, colds or diarrhea. DO NOT PANIC!

THREE ... They must be kept warm and once vaccinated, do not bathe them for at least 10 days.

FOUR ... Do not get upset if your foster does not make it... it happens - you've tried your best.

But what if ...

ONE ... the small one is vomiting or has diarrhea?

If it just after de-worming or some other medication, it may be bodily reaction. However, if it prolongs, make sure it is eating and drinking. Otherwise, consult the vet.


TWO ... my foster is not eating or drinking?

It may be having wind. If the pup or kitten is already on solids, give 1/2 a charcoal tablet. If this doesn't work, force feed with glucose or sugar water or baby food using a syringe. Then consult a vet.


THREE ... the little fella has an unusually runny nose?

It may have caught flu. Just refer the animal to a vet for some medication or vaccinations.


FOUR ... the pup or kitten I'm fostering isn't weaned?

You have to bottle feed every 2 to 3 hours, day and night until they are ready for solids. Milk must be puppy formula for pups and kitten formula for kittens. DO NOT give regular milk as they may get very bad diarrhea. After each feeding, remember to massage its genitalia and anus to encourage defecation and to prevent constipation.


FIVE ... my foster has bloody and smelly diarrhea?

It may be parvovirus. This is a fatal air borne virus but do not panic. Take it immediately to the vet. If the little animal does not make it, do not get upset and remember to disinfect your home and to refrain from fostering for at least a month.