Carpe Felium
— Seize the Kittens
Be part of our compassionate community and help us give every
rescue kitten and cat the love, care, and future they deserve. Together,
we can create a world where every whisker finds its way home! Whether
you’re cuddling kittens, helping with daily care, assisting with
transport, or fostering our furry friends, every effort makes a difference.
The passionate team behind Hello Whiskers is dedicated to rescuing,
caring for, and finding loving homes for kittens across Portugal, driven
by compassion and a shared love for kittens.
You can Make a Great Impact
Volunteers are the heart and soul of Hello Whiskers, and we couldn’t achieve our mission without you! Whether you’re fostering a kitten, helping at adoption events, or offering your time in other ways, every contribution makes a difference. By volunteering with us, you join a compassionate community committed to improving the quality of life for felines across Portugal.
Are you ready to Help?
Bring your purr-sistence, skills, and heart to Hello Whiskers and help us change lives, one set of whiskers at a time.
From hands-on care to helping with transport and fostering, every role is vital to our mission.
Join our community of animal lovers and help us give every cat a brighter future!
Donate
Support with funds or supplies for food, vet care, and essentials.
Foster a Kitten
Offer a temporary home for kittens to quarantine.
Spread the Word
Share our mission and cats online or with friends.
Volunteer
Help with kitten care, transport, events, or admin tasks.
Adopt
Give a Hello Whiskers kitten a forever home.
Help with Trapping
Help safely trap feral cats for care and socialization
Drive Kittens
Drive cats to veterinary appointments or foster homes.
Sponsor a Kitten
Cover a kitten’s care or medical costs.
Provide Services
Use your expertise to help our rescue.
HELP US ACHIEVE
OUR MISSION
To Improve the Quality of Life for Felines Across Portugal
Fur-ever Homes Start with Fosters
Our Foster FAQ provides answers to common questions about caring for kittens, including medical care, supplies, and fostering with pets.
Whether you’re fostering neonatals, ferals, or social kittens, you’ll find everything you need to feel supported and prepared.
Thank you for helping us give these kittens a second chance!
Our goal is to support you every step of the way, so you feel confident and prepared to provide the best care possible.
Thank you for being a vital part of our mission to rescue and rehome kittens!
What is fostering, and why is it important?
Fostering provides temporary care for rescued kittens in a loving home environment. It’s essential because it allows us to monitor the kittens’ health, provide treatments if necessary, and prepare them for adoption. Fostering is a critical step in giving these kittens a second chance at life.
How long is the typical foster period?
Fostering with Hello Whiskers typically lasts a minimum of 2 weeks. During this time, the kittens are monitored for any health issues and treated if needed. Most illnesses are resolved within 7–10 days, so the usual foster duration is 2–4 weeks. Once the kittens are deemed healthy, they move into the kitten room to socialize with other kittens and they can then go for adoption.
Can I choose the kitten(s) I foster?
We do our best to match fosters with kittens that fit their preferences and experience. However, the needs of the kittens always come first, and we appreciate flexibility when assigning kittens to foster homes.
Do I need prior experience to become a foster?
No prior experience is required! We welcome anyone with a love for animals and the ability to provide a safe and caring environment. Our team will provide guidance and resources to help you every step of the way.
What kind of kittens will I foster?
No prior experience is required! We welcome anyone with a love for animals and the ability to provide a safe and caring environment. Our team will provide guidance and resources to help you every step of the way.
What kind of care is expected of me as a foster?
You could foster neonatals, ferals, or social kittens, depending on the rescue’s current needs and your experience level. Neonatals require intensive care, ferals need patience and socialization, and social kittens are often already comfortable with humans. Let us know your preferences, and we’ll match you with kittens that suit your fostering ability and schedule.
Will I need to provide food, litter, or medical care?
We ask that fosters provide their own litter and kitten wet and dry food. We’re happy to help you determine the best options for the kittens in your care. Hello Whiskers will cover the cost of all medicines unless you’d like to contribute as a donation. We can also provide bedding and litter boxes, as we generally have extras available in our rescue. Please let us know how we can support you as you support us in this important work.
What should I do if the kitten becomes sick while in my care?
If a kitten shows signs of illness or gets injured, contact us immediately. We’ll guide you on the next steps, whether it’s administering medication, monitoring symptoms, or visiting the vet.
What kind of training or resources are available for new fosters?
We provide an orientation for all new fosters, including resources on kitten care, common health issues, and socialization tips. Our team is also available to answer any questions or concerns you may have.
Do kittens receive medical treatment before fostering?
Kittens that come directly off the street and into your foster home have not yet received any medical treatment. We aim to deworm and deflea the kittens as soon as possible. Defleaing can be done through a bath or medication, while deworming is administered with medication. Vaccinations are not completed until the kittens reach 3 months of age, and sterilizations are done once they turn 5 months old.
What happens if I need to take a foster kitten to the vet?
All veterinary care is coordinated through Hello Whiskers. If a vet visit is needed, we will arrange the appointment and provide clear instructions.
How do I administer medications if the kitten needs treatment?
We will guide you through the process of administering medications, whether it’s pills, drops, or topical treatments. Our team is always available to provide advice or demonstrations if needed.
Can I foster if I have pets of my own?
You can choose to have our rescue kittens interact with your own animals. However, please understand that there are always some health risks when fostering kittens directly off the street. Even after deworming and defleaing, and if your pets are fully vaccinated, there are still limited risks. We recommend keeping foster kittens separate from your pets during the initial 2-week quarantine period to minimize these risks.
Can I travel or go on vacation while fostering?
If you have travel plans, let us know in advance. We can arrange alternative care for the kittens during your absence to ensure their needs are met.
What if I get too attached to the kittens?
It’s natural to bond with your fosters! Saying goodbye can be hard, but remember that you’re helping them find their forever home. Your role as a foster is critical in their journey to adoption.
What happens if I decide I want to adopt one of my fosters?
If you fall in love with a foster kitten and want to adopt, let us know! Fosters are given priority when it comes to adopting their kittens.
How do I handle saying goodbye when the kittens are adopted?
Focus on the joy of knowing you’ve played a vital role in giving the kittens a happy, healthy start to life. Plus, there’s always another kitten in need of your care!
Will I be involved in the adoption process for my foster kittens?
We’ll need your help with insights about the kitten’s behavior, personality, and habits, as this information is crucial in matching them with the perfect home. While kittens don’t usually get adopted directly from foster homes, it can happen from time to time. If someone expresses interest, please let us know, and we’ll handle the adoption process, including vetting the potential adopter to ensure a responsible and loving home.
What if I know someone interested in adopting my foster kittens?
That’s wonderful! Have them contact us to start the adoption process. We’ll guide them through the application to ensure it’s a perfect match.
Can I foster if I work full-time?
Absolutely! Many fosters work full-time and care for kittens in the evenings or weekends. Young kittens may require more frequent feeding, so we’ll match you with kittens that suit your schedule.
What if I can no longer continue fostering?
Life happens, and we understand. If you’re unable to continue fostering, let us know as soon as possible so we can make arrangements for the kittens.
Is fostering seasonal, or are there opportunities year-round?
While kitten season is busiest in spring, summer, and fall, there are opportunities to foster year-round. We always need loving foster homes, especially for sick or special-needs kittens.
How to Apply
Getting started as a Hello Whiskers volunteer is easy! Simply reach out to us through one of our contact methods or social media channels and express your interest. We’ll have a chat about how you’d like to help and find the best fit for you. Our goal is to make your volunteering experience as enjoyable and rewarding as possible so you can continue making a difference with us for the long term!
Behind the Purrs
Katie, a Canadian cat lover and professional marketer, moved to Portugal in the winter of 2020 and soon dedicated herself to improving the lives of kittens and cats. She rescued her first kitten, OJ, in 2021, which sparked her journey into feline rescue. Later that year, she co-founded a local rescue but shifted her focus to launch Hello Whiskers in spring 2024, allowing her to broaden her mission and rescue without limits. Since starting her work, Katie has been part of saving over 400 kittens. With her own trio, OJ, Love (adopted from her previous rescue), and Larry (rescued from nearby streets), Katie has a heartfelt vision to expand Hello Whiskers nationwide. Her kindness, compassion, and drive form the core of Hello Whiskers, creating a brighter future for Portugal’s felines.
Pawsitive Feedback
What our volunteers and fosters have to say about us!
Carpe Felium
— Seize the Kittens
Be part of our compassionate community and help us give every rescue kitten and cat the love, care, and future they deserve. Together, we can create a world where every whisker finds its way home!
Whether you’re cuddling kittens, helping with daily care, assisting with transport, or fostering our furry friends, every effort makes a difference. The passionate team behind Hello Whiskers is dedicated to rescuing, caring for, and finding loving homes for kittens across Portugal, driven by compassion and a shared love for kittens.
You can Make a Great Impact
Volunteers are the heart and soul of Hello Whiskers, and we couldn’t achieve our mission without you! Whether you’re fostering a kitten, helping at adoption events, or offering your time in other ways, every contribution makes a difference. By volunteering with us, you join a compassionate community committed to improving the quality of life for felines across Portugal.
Are you ready to Help?
Bring your purr-sistence, skills, and heart to Hello Whiskers and help us change lives—one set of whiskers at a time. From hands-on care to helping with transport and fostering, every role is vital to our mission.
Join our community of animal lovers and help us give every cat a brighter future!
Donate
Support with funds or supplies for food, vet care, and essentials.
Volunteer
Help with kitten care, transport, events, or admin tasks.
Spread the Word
Share our mission and cats online or with friends.
Foster a Kitten
Offer a temporary home for kittens to quarantine.
Adopt
Give a Hello Whiskers kitten a forever home.
Help with Trapping
Help safely trap feral cats for care and socialization
Drive Kittens
Drive cats to veterinary appointments or foster homes.
Sponsor a Kitten
Cover a kitten’s care or medical costs.
Provide Services
Use your expertise to help our rescue.
HELP US ACHIEVE
OUR MISSION
To Improve the Quality of Life for Felines Across Portugal
Fur-ever Homes Start with Fosters
Our Foster FAQ provides answers to common questions about caring for kittens, including medical care, supplies, and fostering with pets. Whether you’re fostering neonatals, ferals, or social kittens, you’ll find everything you need to feel supported and prepared. Thank you for helping us give these kittens a second chance! Our goal is to support you every step of the way, so you feel confident and prepared to provide the best care possible. Thank you for being a vital part of our mission to rescue and rehome kittens!
What is fostering, and why is it important?
Fostering provides temporary care for rescued kittens in a loving home environment. It’s essential because it allows us to monitor the kittens’ health, provide treatments if necessary, and prepare them for adoption. Fostering is a critical step in giving these kittens a second chance at life.
How long is the typical foster period?
Fostering with Hello Whiskers typically lasts a minimum of 2 weeks. During this time, the kittens are monitored for any health issues and treated if needed. Most illnesses are resolved within 7–10 days, so the usual foster duration is 2–4 weeks. Once the kittens are deemed healthy, they move into the kitten room to socialize with other kittens and they can then go for adoption.
Can I choose the kitten(s) I foster?
We do our best to match fosters with kittens that fit their preferences and experience. However, the needs of the kittens always come first, and we appreciate flexibility when assigning kittens to foster homes.
Do I need prior experience to become a foster?
No prior experience is required! We welcome anyone with a love for animals and the ability to provide a safe and caring environment. Our team will provide guidance and resources to help you every step of the way.
What kind of kittens will I foster?
No prior experience is required! We welcome anyone with a love for animals and the ability to provide a safe and caring environment. Our team will provide guidance and resources to help you every step of the way.
What kind of care is expected of me as a foster?
You could foster neonatals, ferals, or social kittens, depending on the rescue’s current needs and your experience level. Neonatals require intensive care, ferals need patience and socialization, and social kittens are often already comfortable with humans. Let us know your preferences, and we’ll match you with kittens that suit your fostering ability and schedule.
Will I need to provide food, litter, or medical care?
We ask that fosters provide their own litter and kitten wet and dry food. We’re happy to help you determine the best options for the kittens in your care. Hello Whiskers will cover the cost of all medicines unless you’d like to contribute as a donation. We can also provide bedding and litter boxes, as we generally have extras available in our rescue. Please let us know how we can support you as you support us in this important work.
What should I do if the kitten becomes sick while in my care?
If a kitten shows signs of illness or gets injured, contact us immediately. We’ll guide you on the next steps, whether it’s administering medication, monitoring symptoms, or visiting the vet.
What kind of training or resources are available for new fosters?
We provide an orientation for all new fosters, including resources on kitten care, common health issues, and socialization tips. Our team is also available to answer any questions or concerns you may have.
Do kittens receive medical treatment before fostering?
Kittens that come directly off the street and into your foster home have not yet received any medical treatment. We aim to deworm and deflea the kittens as soon as possible. Defleaing can be done through a bath or medication, while deworming is administered with medication. Vaccinations are not completed until the kittens reach 3 months of age, and sterilizations are done once they turn 5 months old.
What happens if I need to take a foster kitten to the vet?
All veterinary care is coordinated through Hello Whiskers. If a vet visit is needed, we will arrange the appointment and provide clear instructions.
How do I administer medications if the kitten needs treatment?
We will guide you through the process of administering medications, whether it’s pills, drops, or topical treatments. Our team is always available to provide advice or demonstrations if needed.
Can I foster if I have pets of my own?
You can choose to have our rescue kittens interact with your own animals. However, please understand that there are always some health risks when fostering kittens directly off the street. Even after deworming and defleaing, and if your pets are fully vaccinated, there are still limited risks. We recommend keeping foster kittens separate from your pets during the initial 2-week quarantine period to minimize these risks.
Can I travel or go on vacation while fostering?
If you have travel plans, let us know in advance. We can arrange alternative care for the kittens during your absence to ensure their needs are met.
What if I get too attached to the kittens?
It’s natural to bond with your fosters! Saying goodbye can be hard, but remember that you’re helping them find their forever home. Your role as a foster is critical in their journey to adoption.
What happens if I decide I want to adopt one of my fosters?
If you fall in love with a foster kitten and want to adopt, let us know! Fosters are given priority when it comes to adopting their kittens.
How do I handle saying goodbye when the kittens are adopted?
Focus on the joy of knowing you’ve played a vital role in giving the kittens a happy, healthy start to life. Plus, there’s always another kitten in need of your care!
Will I be involved in the adoption process for my foster kittens?
We’ll need your help with insights about the kitten’s behavior, personality, and habits, as this information is crucial in matching them with the perfect home. While kittens don’t usually get adopted directly from foster homes, it can happen from time to time. If someone expresses interest, please let us know, and we’ll handle the adoption process, including vetting the potential adopter to ensure a responsible and loving home.
What if I know someone interested in adopting my foster kittens?
That’s wonderful! Have them contact us to start the adoption process. We’ll guide them through the application to ensure it’s a perfect match.
Can I foster if I work full-time?
Absolutely! Many fosters work full-time and care for kittens in the evenings or weekends. Young kittens may require more frequent feeding, so we’ll match you with kittens that suit your schedule.
What if I can no longer continue fostering?
Life happens, and we understand. If you’re unable to continue fostering, let us know as soon as possible so we can make arrangements for the kittens.
Is fostering seasonal, or are there opportunities year-round?
While kitten season is busiest in spring, summer, and fall, there are opportunities to foster year-round. We always need loving foster homes, especially for sick or special-needs kittens.
How to Apply
Getting started as a Hello Whiskers volunteer is easy! Simply reach out to us through one of our contact methods or social media channels and express your interest. We’ll have a chat about how you’d like to help and find the best fit for you. Our goal is to make your volunteering experience as enjoyable and rewarding as possible so you can continue making a difference with us for the long term!
Say Hello to Katie
Katie, a Canadian cat lover and professional marketer, moved to Portugal in the winter of 2020. She rescued her first kittens, OJ and Sass, in 2021, which sparked her journey into feline rescue. Later that year, she co-founded a local rescue but shifted her focus to launch Hello Whiskers in spring 2024, allowing her to broaden her mission and rescue without limits. Since starting her work, Katie has been part of saving over 350 kittens. With her own trio—OJ, Love (adopted from her previous rescue), and Larry (rescued from nearby streets)—Katie has a heartfelt vision to expand Hello Whiskers nationwide. Her kindness, compassion, and drive form the core of Hello Whiskers, creating a brighter future for Portugal’s felines.
Pawsitive Feedback
What our volunteers and fosters have to say about us!
Carpe Felium
Seize the Kittens
Building a brighter future for kittens
and cats, one set of whiskers at a time!
Be part of our compassionate community and help us give every rescue kitten and cat the love, care, and future they deserve. The passionate team behind Hello Whiskers is dedicated to rescuing, caring for, and finding loving homes for kittens across Portugal, driven by compassion and a shared love for kittens.
You can Make a Great Impact
Volunteers are the heart and soul of Hello Whiskers, and we couldn’t achieve our mission without you! Whether you’re fostering a kitten, helping at adoption events, or offering your time in other ways, every contribution makes a difference. By volunteering with us, you join a compassionate community committed
to improving the quality of life for
felines across Portugal.
Are you ready to Help?
Bring your purr-sistence, skills, and heart to Hello Whiskers and help us change lives, one set of whiskers at a time. From
hands-on care to helping with transport and fostering, every role is vital to our mission. Join our community of animal lovers and help us give every cat a brighter future!
Donate
Support with funds or supplies for food, vet care, and essentials.
Volunteer
Help with kitten care, transport, events, or admin tasks.
Spread the Word
Share our mission and cats online or with friends.
Adopt
Give a Hello Whiskers kitten a forever home.
Drive Kittens
Drive cats to veterinary appointments or foster homes.
Foster a Kitten
Offer a temporary home for kittens to quarantine.
Help with Trapping
Help trap feral cats for care or sterilization.
Provide Services
Use your expertise to help our rescue.
HELP US ACHIEVE
OUR MISSION
To Improve the Quality of Life for Felines Across Portugal
Fur-ever Homes Start with Fosters
Our Foster FAQ provides answers to common questions about caring for kittens, including medical care, supplies, and fostering with pets. Whether you’re fostering neonatals, ferals, or social kittens, you’ll find everything you need to feel supported and prepared.
Thank you for helping us give these kittens a second chance! Our goal is to support you every step of the way, so you feel confident and prepared to provide the best care possible. Thank you for being a vital part of our mission to rescue and rehome kittens!
What is fostering, and why is it important?
Fostering provides temporary care for rescued kittens in a loving home environment. It’s essential because it allows us to monitor the kittens’ health, provide treatments if necessary, and prepare them for adoption. Fostering is a critical step in giving these kittens a second chance at life.
How long is the typical foster period?
Fostering with Hello Whiskers typically lasts a minimum of 2 weeks. During this time, the kittens are monitored for any health issues and treated if needed. Most illnesses are resolved within 7–10 days, so the usual foster duration is 2–4 weeks. Once the kittens are deemed healthy, they move into the kitten room to socialize with other kittens and they can then go for adoption.
Can I choose the kitten(s) I foster?
We do our best to match fosters with kittens that fit their preferences and experience. However, the needs of the kittens always come first, and we appreciate flexibility when assigning kittens to foster homes.
Do I need prior experience to become a foster?
No prior experience is required! We welcome anyone with a love for animals and the ability to provide a safe and caring environment. Our team will provide guidance and resources to help you every step of the way.
What kind of kittens will I foster?
No prior experience is required! We welcome anyone with a love for animals and the ability to provide a safe and caring environment. Our team will provide guidance and resources to help you every step of the way.
What kind of care is expected of me as a foster?
You could foster neonatals, ferals, or social kittens, depending on the rescue’s current needs and your experience level. Neonatals require intensive care, ferals need patience and socialization, and social kittens are often already comfortable with humans. Let us know your preferences, and we’ll match you with kittens that suit your fostering ability and schedule.
Will I need to provide food, litter, or medical care?
We ask that fosters provide their own litter and kitten wet and dry food. We’re happy to help you determine the best options for the kittens in your care. Hello Whiskers will cover the cost of all medicines unless you’d like to contribute as a donation. We can also provide bedding and litter boxes, as we generally have extras available in our rescue. Please let us know how we can support you as you support us in this important work.
What should I do if the kitten becomes sick while in my care?
If a kitten shows signs of illness or gets injured, contact us immediately. We’ll guide you on the next steps, whether it’s administering medication, monitoring symptoms, or visiting the vet.
What kind of training or resources are available for new fosters?
We provide an orientation for all new fosters, including resources on kitten care, common health issues, and socialization tips. Our team is also available to answer any questions or concerns you may have.
Do kittens receive medical treatment before fostering?
Kittens that come directly off the street and into your foster home have not yet received any medical treatment. We aim to deworm and deflea the kittens as soon as possible. Defleaing can be done through a bath or medication, while deworming is administered with medication. Vaccinations are not completed until the kittens reach 3 months of age, and sterilizations are done once they turn 5 months old.
What happens if I need to take a foster kitten to the vet?
All veterinary care is coordinated through Hello Whiskers. If a vet visit is needed, we will arrange the appointment and provide clear instructions.
How do I administer medications if the kitten needs treatment?
We will guide you through the process of administering medications, whether it’s pills, drops, or topical treatments. Our team is always available to provide advice or demonstrations if needed.
Can I foster if I have pets of my own?
You can choose to have our rescue kittens interact with your own animals. However, please understand that there are always some health risks when fostering kittens directly off the street. Even after deworming and defleaing, and if your pets are fully vaccinated, there are still limited risks. We recommend keeping foster kittens separate from your pets during the initial 2-week quarantine period to minimize these risks.
Can I travel or go on vacation while fostering?
If you have travel plans, let us know in advance. We can arrange alternative care for the kittens during your absence to ensure their needs are met.
What if I get too attached to the kittens?
It’s natural to bond with your fosters! Saying goodbye can be hard, but remember that you’re helping them find their forever home. Your role as a foster is critical in their journey to adoption.
What happens if I decide I want to adopt one of my fosters?
If you fall in love with a foster kitten and want to adopt, let us know! Fosters are given priority when it comes to adopting their kittens.
How do I handle saying goodbye when the kittens are adopted?
Focus on the joy of knowing you’ve played a vital role in giving the kittens a happy, healthy start to life. Plus, there’s always another kitten in need of your care!
Will I be involved in the adoption process for my foster kittens?
We’ll need your help with insights about the kitten’s behavior, personality, and habits, as this information is crucial in matching them with the perfect home. While kittens don’t usually get adopted directly from foster homes, it can happen from time to time. If someone expresses interest, please let us know, and we’ll handle the adoption process, including vetting the potential adopter to ensure a responsible and loving home.
What if I know someone interested in adopting my foster kittens?
That’s wonderful! Have them contact us to start the adoption process. We’ll guide them through the application to ensure it’s a perfect match.
Can I foster if I work full-time?
Absolutely! Many fosters work full-time and care for kittens in the evenings or weekends. Young kittens may require more frequent feeding, so we’ll match you with kittens that suit your schedule.
What if I can no longer continue fostering?
Life happens, and we understand. If you’re unable to continue fostering, let us know as soon as possible so we can make arrangements for the kittens.
Is fostering seasonal, or are there opportunities year-round?
While kitten season is busiest in spring, summer, and fall, there are opportunities to foster year-round. We always need loving foster homes, especially for sick or special-needs kittens.
How to Apply
Getting started as a Hello Whiskers volunteer is easy! Simply reach out to us through one of our contact methods or social media channels and express your interest. We’ll have a chat about how you’d like to help and find the best fit for you. Our goal is to make your volunteering experience as enjoyable and rewarding as possible so you can continue making a difference with us for the long term!
Katie, a Canadian cat lover and professional marketer, moved to Portugal in the winter of 2020 and soon dedicated herself to improving the lives of kittens and cats. She rescued her first kitten, OJ, in 2021, which sparked her journey into feline rescue. Later that year, she co-founded a local rescue but shifted her focus to launch Hello Whiskers in spring 2024, allowing her to broaden her mission and rescue without limits. Since starting her work, Katie has been part of saving over 400 kittens. With her own trio, OJ, Love (adopted from her previous rescue), and Larry (rescued from nearby streets), Katie has a heartfelt vision to expand Hello Whiskers nationwide. Her kindness, compassion, and drive form the core of Hello Whiskers, creating a brighter future for Portugal’s felines.
Pawsitive Feedback
What our volunteers and fosters
have to say about us!