Animal Welfare Professionals

I volunteer at a shelter where volunteers will take long term resident dogs home for a weekend respite visit.  We have many adult cats who have been here many months and I would like opinions whether these types of visits would be beneficial or more stressful for our residents.

My very uninformed opinion,  as a volunteer at cat rescue.  We have had a few cats taken into foster care for longer periods (month or more)  who have benefited in overcoming their fearful behavior.  I don't think a weekend would be of benefit.  Possible exception might be if cat has been surrendered from a stable home (we have a number of pets surrendered by seniors who can no longer care for them)  but these cats are not usually long termers, or are popular foster care candidates as they are low maintenance.

I think it depends on the personality of the cat. An easy going cat might like it and be okay with having to return to the shelter come Monday. Some cats might like to go with another cat as company. Get to know the cats and give it a try because I think they need the experience, however short.