Homework, Litterboxes, and Love

The Joy (and Challenges) of Raising Kittens

“It’s a selfless act to raise baby animals for someone else to love. Seeing my kids step up with such care — and joy — has been incredibly heartwarming.”

What started as a plan to adopt a cat turned into a life-changing adventure in fostering. Meet Aria (16) and Kevin Yoder (13), two teens who, along with their family, have fostered nearly 100 cats over the past seven years through Joybound.

“We thought fostering might be a fun way to find the right cat,” Aria shares. “But instead, we fell in love with fostering and raising kittens.” And it shows. Just ask Queen Bee, Carpenter Bee, and Bumble Bee, their latest furry guests. This trio, along with their cuddly (and constantly tired) mama, stay in the Jack-and-Jill bathroom between the siblings’ bedrooms.

While the work can be messy (hello, litter box duty), it’s also deeply rewarding. Aria is on food and snuggle patrol, while Kevin keeps things clean and helps out with wet food duties. “The best place to do homework is with a kitten climbing on your keyboard,” Aria laughs.

The Yoders have learned a lot from fostering, especially about love and responsibility. “Knowing these tiny animals rely on you to survive is a big deal,” Aria says. They’ve also found a new appreciation for mother cats. “Watching mama care for her babies is amazing,” adds Kevin. “She never gets a break!”

It’s not always easy. Kittens can be skittish, sick, or not quite ready to eat or play. Also, saying goodbye can be hard. “But that’s the job,” Kevin says. “We do this so they can have the best life possible with their forever family.”

Their mom, Anat couldn’t be prouder. “It’s a selfless act to raise baby animals for someone else to love. Seeing my kids step up with such care and joy has been incredibly heartwarming.”

Thinking about fostering? The Yoders say go for it, but be ready to work and fall completely in love.

to make a difference like Aria and Kevin? Visit joybound.org/foster because a little love (and lots of kitten snuggles) goes a long way!

Note: This article was featured in the Summer 2025 issue of Joy Magazine. With a gift of just $25 to Joybound, you can be added to our mailing list and receive Joy in your mailbox for one year!