How can I protect the cats (if mum dies)

[Myrrfect]

My mum has two very loved cats but she’s seriously ill and it could be any day (or she might rally and have a couple more months)

I work abroad and so does my brother though I’m here in the country now. I don’t want to lose the cats and them be rehomed, I’ll end my overseas contract (sadly as it’s a great job) but can’t be back before the summer.

What solutions are there? I have thought of...
A) a housesitter but don’t know anyone who wants to live in a cottage in the middle of nowhere with two gorgeous cats
B) I also know lots of people with dogs but no one who says cats? Love them! let me look after them. Is cat fostering a thing?!
C) they could go into a cattery but I think they would be desperately unhappy as it would be months

I’ve thought of offering £100/month with all food n vets bills but don’t know where to start looking. Or if this is enough or too much. I wake up at night worrying about this. Everything else I can work out or find solutions but this I just feel sick.

Please help dear litter tray ladies. I’m at my wits end.

[Finfintytint]

Yes, Cat fostering does exist. Maybe have a look at the local Cats Protection League. They may be able to help.

[Myrrfect]

Although those aren’t v good photos of them!

[Wolfiefan]

@Myrrfect I’m so sorry to hear this. The Cinnamon Trust may well be able to help. They have fosterers who look after animals in their own homes.

[ChristmasBubble]

People do house sit/ cat sit. Somebody might be looking for an escape to nowhere given what's going on although you'd have to choose very carefully. Aren't there companies that set this sort of thing up?

[Vinorosso74]

Sorry to hear this.
Look up Cats Protection Cat Guardian scheme. However, if she's so near the end I would contact local rescues asap to see if they can take the cats in. Some places may be closed until after this weekend.

[BurntHouseLane]

Have a look here www.trustedhousesitters.com

[Pinkywoo]

Where in the country are they? There might be someone on here who can help.

[Myrrfect]

Thank you @Wolfiefan and everyone offering advice. Maybe the Cinnamon trust or Cats Protection league can help. I think the issue is with house sitters is finding someone trustworthy as there’s loads of stuff everywhere like silverware etc. So I’d be ok with some connection but a bit wary of an agency. However the cats do need company not just feeding as they are v sociable.

I wondered if anyone had experience of either a charity fosterer or a pet housesitter.

It might be good for someone to escape to. It’s now tier 2 in a huge beautiful garden n orchard a bit run down but ok. Just got to figure out how to find someone - if it is necessary.

[Wolfiefan]

The Cinnamon Trust is a charity. But they don’t allow just anyone to help out. You do need to apply and provide references etc.

[viccat]

The issue with most cat rescue charities is that while they have trusted fosterers on their books, they will need those foster spaces for cats that come in for rehoming and are rescued from the streets. It sounds like you would need help for about 6 months which is a long time sadly.

I used to volunteer with a charity that did some long term foster stays as a fundraiser activity but they asked for minimum £10 per day donation.

[NoGuestsCIothingOptionaI]

If in Gtr Manchester then PM me, I'd happily take care of them.
Nonetheless, it is a huge responsibility if they are outdoor cats - there is no guarantee that whoever looks after them for you can prevent them from being run over or getting lost, so whatever solution you do come up with, you need to be aware of the limitations.

[Want2beme]

So sorry for your troubles

Have a look at this -www.trustedhousesitters.com/house-and-pet-sitting-assignments/united-kingdom/

I don't know anything about them, but it might be worth exploring. You could ask a local vet or rescue centre. They might be able to recommend someone.
Best of luck to you.