The 5 Most Common Mistakes New Foster Parents Make (And How to Avoid Them)

Opening your home to foster kittens is one of the most impactful, life-saving things you can do — but like anything new, it comes with a learning curve. Whether you're bottle-feeding newborns or socializing shy weaned kittens, it’s normal to feel a little overwhelmed at first.

At Esther Neonatal Kitten Alliance, we’ve supported hundreds of new fosters, and we’ve seen some common patterns. The good news? Most mistakes are easy to prevent with the right support (and we’re here for you every step of the way).

Here are five common mistakes fosters parents often make — and how to avoid them so you can feel confident, capable, and ready to save lives.

1. Trying to Care for Young Kittens Without a Warmth Source

The mistake: New fosters often focus on feeding right away, but a cold kitten can't digest food — and feeding them too soon can do more harm than good.

How to avoid it: Always make sure the kitten is warm before feeding. If the kitten feels cool to the touch, gently warm them using a heating pad set on low (covered by a towel), a rice sock, or a Snuggle Safe disc. Aim for a cozy, nest-like setup around 85–90°F for neonates.

2. Overfeeding or Feeding the Wrong Way

The mistake: It's easy to assume “more food = stronger kitten,” but overfeeding or feeding too quickly can cause bloating, diarrhea, aspiration, or even fading.

How to avoid it: Stick to a schedule and feed based on weight — not just hunger cues. Learn proper bottle feeding techniques and always let the kitten control the pace. If you're unsure, we’re happy to give you a live feeding demo or video consult.

3. Letting the Kittens Roam Too Soon

The mistake: It’s tempting to let older kittens explore, especially if they seem playful. But too much freedom too early can lead to litter box confusion, accidents, or injuries.

How to avoid it: Keep new kittens in a contained, kitten-proofed area until they reliably use the litter box and understand where to find food, water, and safety. A playpen, small room, or large dog crate works great. Gradually expand their space as they grow and get the hang of things.

4. Not Asking for Help Soon Enough

The mistake: Some fosters feel nervous or guilty asking for help, worrying they’ll seem inexperienced. But waiting too long can lead to preventable emergencies.

How to avoid it: Whether you're seeing diarrhea, missed a feeding, or the kitten “just seems off,” reach out to a rescue or vet right away. You’re not bothering anyone — you’re protecting your kitten’s life.

5. Underestimating the Emotional Side

The mistake: Many fosters are surprised by how attached they get — or how heavy it can feel when a kitten is sick or doesn’t make it.

How to avoid it: Know that all of your feelings are valid. It’s okay to cry, it’s okay to fall in love, and yes, it’s okay to adopt your foster. Surround yourself with other fosters and a rescue team that offers not just training — but emotional support, too.

In Closing

Mistakes are part of the learning process — but with the right guidance, you’ll quickly grow more confident and skilled. Fostering is a journey of love, learning, and lifesaving.

If you're considering fostering for the first time, fill out our foster application here!