Foster

Fostering Kittens & Puppies

Kaua’i Humane Society is often the only place young stray animals can turn for a chance at survival, but many litters need round-the-clock care that our shelter can’t provide. That’s where our lifesaving fosters come in, giving vulnerable animals the care and time needed to grow into adoptable pets.

Why Foster Young Animals?

Provide a safe, loving environment for animals too young for adoption.
Help socialize, love, and prepare them for their forever homes.
Open up space in the shelter for more animals in need to receive care.

Tiny Paws, Big Impact

While fostering takes time, effort, and patience, the rewards are immeasurable. Whether it’s late-night feedings, playful training, or simply offering a safe space, your care gives these little ones a chance at a happy life.

Kitten Foster Care Basics

  • Feeding: Kittens under 4 weeks require bottle-feeding every 2-4 hours. Gradually transition to solid food by 8 weeks.
  • Neo-Natal Kitten Potty Time: Kittens under 8 weeks may need assistance with urinating or defecating. Use a warm towel and gently rub private parts to induce bowel movements. See our Neo-Natal Kitten Tutorial Video for more information.
  • Litter Training: Older kittens who are capable of independent bowel movements can be placed in the litter box after meals and naps. Keep it clean!
  • Socialization: Gentle handling and interactive play help kittens grow into friendly, confident cats.
  • Health Monitoring: Watch for signs of illness (diarrhea, lethargy, sneezing) and weigh daily. 
  • Adoption: Kittens are ready for adoption at 8 weeks or 2 lbs., when they can have their spay or neuter surgery. Contact the foster team to schedule their surgery date. If you’re interested in adopting, let our foster coordinator know so we can process the adoption after surgery pick-up. Fosters have their adoption fees waived!

Our Veterinary Staff is here to assist you! Text us (808) 631  – 2844 with any questions or concerns about your foster kittens.

Kitten Supplies Provided by KHS

  • Food & Water Bowls – Shallow dishes for easy access.
  • Kitten Food – Age-appropriate formula or wet food.
  • Litter Box & Litter – Low-sided for easy use.
  • Bedding & Heating Pad – Keep them warm and cozy.
  • Toys & Scratching Post – For play and development.
  • Scale – Monitor weight daily.

If you are running low on foster supplies, please visit the shelter during open hours and let our front desk know.

Kitten Season Crew

Be A Hero This Kitten Season

Every March through November, KHS experiences a large influx of neonatal kittens being dropped off at our shelter, many under 4 weeks old and in need of bottle feeding and care. Join our Kitten Season Interest Form by clicking below, you’ll be added to a waitlist, and our Foster Coordinator will contact you when we need fosters.

Kitten Season Waitlist Form

Puppy Foster Care Basics

  • Feeding: Puppies under 4 weeks require bottle-feeding every 2-4 hours. Do not need to wake up puppies to feed if they are sleeping, puppies grow the most in their sleep. They will let you know when they’re hungry.
  • 6–12 weeks: 4 meals/day
  • 3–6 months: 3 meals/day
  • 6–12 months: 2 meals/day
  • Neo-Natal Potty Time: Puppies under 2 weeks may need assistance with urinating or defecating. Use a warm towel and gently rub genital areas to induce bowel movements. It’s best to do this after waking and after feeding.
  • Toys & Teething: Provide chew toys to ensure they do not have undesired behaviors, protecting furniture (and your shoes!) as puppies begin teething. 
  • Socialization: Puppies will be fostered in groups of 2 or more so that they have companionship and get better socialized. You can also expose puppies to new experiences, people, and gentle handling.
  • Health Monitoring: IMPORTANT – Puppies in Kaua’i can not go in the grass until they are 6 months old, fully vaccinated, and protected against diseases like Parvo. Watch for signs of illness, and keep up with all appointments.
  • Adoption: Puppies are ready for adoption at 8 weeks or 2 lbs., when they can have their spay or neuter surgery. Contact the foster team to schedule their surgery date.

Our Veterinary Staff is here to assist you! Text us (808) 631  – 2844 with any questions or concerns about your foster puppies.

Puppy Supplies Provided by KHS

  • Food & Water Bowls or Baby Bottles for Formula
  • Puppy Food/Formula – Age-appropriate formula or kibble.
  • Crate or Playpen – A safe space to rest.
  • Bedding & Toys – Soft blankets and chew toys.
  • Leash & Harness – For training and socialization.
  • Puppy Pads & Poop Bags – House training essentials.
  • Scale – Monitor weight daily.

If you are running low on foster supplies, please visit the shelter during open hours and let our front desk know.

Have Further Questions? Reach out!

Foster Team

For emergencies, vet checks, or other questions, contact our foster team.
808-631-2844 (text preferred)
Ready to Foster with KHS?

Fill out your application below.

BECOME A FOSTER HERE