This is Biscuit, my foster.

She’s a two-year-old Himalayan cat who came to me about a month ago as a foster. I don’t know much about her past — just that she was found outside and eventually taken in by a rescue I’ve fostered with before. I’ve been left to shoulder the full responsibility of her care, financially, which is becoming disheartening after I had fostered a very aggressive and difficult mother cat and her babies for this same rescue months prior.

Biscuit is incredibly timid — she flinches at touch and moves submissively, like she’s scared of humans. But she’s gentle, and if I approach her very slowly, she lets me scratch her neck and head. She's been amazing with my other cats, often choosing to be very near to them, finding comfort in their presence. Watching her try to feel safe warms my heart.

I hadn’t planned on adding another cat to my home, but moving her yet again — possibly into what could be a fourth or fifth home — just doesn’t feel right. I'm torn between working to find her a gentle, loving home locally here in Dana Point or San Clemente, or keeping her with me and giving her the stability she so clearly needs.

This past Wednesday night, she started vomiting. At first, I thought it might just be a reaction to diet changes or eating too quickly — things that can be common in cats. But when it continued through Friday night and she was still unable to eat, I knew something was seriously wrong. I brought her to a local vet as soon as I could.

Unfortunately, when I reached out to the rescue for help covering the cost, they told me they weren’t able to offer any support — not even partial reimbursement — despite never warning me this might happen. I understood they might not cover everything since I used a nearby vet instead of theirs, but their complete lack of interest or follow-up has been disappointing. I’ve fostered over 65 cats and kittens in just two years, and I’ve worked in animal rescue myself for a decade — I know funds are tight. But I’ve never expected to been made to feel so alone in a situation like this. The rescue she is with has not even followed up with me to see how she is doing. I have been in contact with 2 women, and both of them have seen rather disinterested in the state of her health.

As of today, Biscuit is back at the vet receiving X-rays and more IV fluids. The costs are adding up quickly — another several hundred dollars just today — and I’m doing everything I can to make sure she’s okay. But the truth is, I wasn’t prepared for this financially. I’m not even legally her owner — I haven’t signed any adoption paperwork — and yet here I am, doing what I believe is right for her, no matter the cost.

I don’t like asking for help, but I’m putting my pride aside for her. If anyone is in a position to contribute toward her care — even a small amount — it would mean the world to both of us. Right now, I’m gravely concerned she may have a blockage that could require surgery, which would be even more costly.

Please, if you can help, know that every bit matters. And thank you so much for caring or sharing about this sweet, scared girl who deserves a safe and healthy future.

With gratitude,

Megan