FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers about adoption, fostering, volunteering, donations, cat care, community cats, and what to do when you find or lose a cat.
Adoption
How do I adopt a cat from RAINS CAT RESCUE?
Start on our Adopt page: submit an adoption inquiry telling us about your household and what you're looking for. We'll talk with you, introduce you to cats who could be a good match, and guide you through the remaining steps.
Can I meet a cat before committing?
Yes. Meeting a cat is a normal part of the process — we want both you and the cat to feel right about the match.
Do you guarantee adoption approval?
No. Our responsibility is to the cats in our care, so we take time to make thoughtful matches. If one cat isn't the right fit, we'll gladly help you find one who is.
Can I adopt if I've never had a cat?
Absolutely. First-time adopters are welcome. We'll help you prepare and point you to our cat care resources so you start with confidence.
What if my new cat isn't adjusting?
Contact us. Adjustment takes days to weeks, and we can share guidance on decompression, introductions, and common behavior questions. If a placement truly isn't working, we'll work with you on the right outcome for the cat.
Fostering
What does a foster caregiver provide?
A safe space, daily food and water, litter care, socialization, transportation to appointments when needed, and regular communication with our team.
How long does a foster placement last?
It varies — from a couple of weeks to a few months depending on the cat. We'll always discuss the expected timeframe before you commit.
What if I fall in love with my foster cat?
It happens, and 'foster fails' are among our favorite outcomes. Talk with us — foster caregivers are often in a great position to adopt.
Do I need experience to foster?
No. We match foster cats to your experience level and provide guidance throughout. A spare room and a patient attitude are the biggest requirements.
Volunteering
What volunteer roles are available?
Roles vary with current needs and may include cat care, events, photography, social media, transport, fundraising, administrative support, and more. Apply on our Volunteer page and tell us your interests.
Can I volunteer remotely?
Often, yes — writing, social media, design, and administrative tasks can be done from home. Note your preference on your application.
How much time do I need to commit?
That depends on the role. Some involve a regular weekly shift; others are project-based or as-needed. We'll work with your schedule.
Donations
How are donations used?
Donations support the practical work of rescue: food, litter, supplies, transportation, foster support, adoption preparation, and educational materials. We don't publish unverified allocation percentages.
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Our EIN is 87-3472154. We make no claims about tax deductibility — please consult a tax professional about your situation.
Can I donate supplies instead of money?
Often yes! Contact us about our current supply needs before purchasing, so your gift matches what our cats actually need.
Cat Care
Should my cat live indoors or outdoors?
We recommend indoor living. Indoor cats typically live longer, healthier lives, protected from traffic, predators, and disease. A well-enriched indoor home meets all of a cat's needs.
Why is my cat avoiding the litter box?
Common causes include a dirty or poorly located box, litter changes, stress, or medical issues like urinary tract infections. See a veterinarian first to rule out health causes, then review the setup — our Cat Care guide has detailed troubleshooting.
How much play does a cat need?
Most cats benefit from at least one or two interactive play sessions of 10–15 minutes daily. Play prevents boredom, weight gain, and behavior problems.
Is the information on your site veterinary advice?
No. Our content is educational only and never a substitute for professional veterinary care. Always consult a qualified veterinarian about your cat's health.
Community Cats
What is a community cat?
A community cat is an unowned or loosely owned cat who lives outdoors. Some are friendly strays; others are feral and avoid people. Each situation calls for a different response.
What is TNR?
Trap-Neuter-Return: outdoor cats are humanely trapped, sterilized and vaccinated by a veterinarian, ear-tipped, and returned to their territory. It humanely stabilizes outdoor populations over time.
There's an ear-tipped cat in my yard. What should I do?
Usually nothing — an ear tip means the cat is sterilized, vaccinated, and likely monitored by a caregiver. If the cat appears sick or injured, contact local animal services or a rescue for guidance.
Found & Lost Cats
I found a friendly cat outside. What now?
Check for a collar and tags, have the cat scanned for a microchip at a vet or shelter, file a found report with local animal services, and post in local lost-pet groups. Many 'strays' are lost pets.
I found kittens alone. Should I pick them up?
Wait and watch from a distance first — their mother is often nearby. Intervene if the kittens are in danger, injured, cold, dirty, crying persistently, or truly alone after several hours. Contact us or a local professional for guidance.
I lost my cat. What should I do?
Search your home and immediate area thoroughly (cats hide nearby), go out at quiet times with food and a familiar voice, notify neighbors, file lost reports with local shelters, post in lost-pet groups, and ask finders to check for your microchip registration.
Contact & General
Where is RAINS CAT RESCUE located?
Our address is 1833 Ferntree Rd, Columbus, OH 43219, United States. Reach us by phone at 614-336-4622.
Do you provide emergency animal services?
No. If a cat is injured or in immediate danger, contact your local animal control agency or an emergency veterinary clinic.
Can I surrender my cat to you?
Contact us to discuss your situation. We may be able to help directly or point you toward resources — and sometimes behavior or financial guidance can help you keep your cat.
Still have questions?
We're happy to help. Reach out and a real person will get back to you.