Best alternative to cat commitment
It's a familiar problem: you want the companionship, cuddling, and affection, but you don't want the commitment of a long-term relationship. This applies to relationships with felines as well as with humans, but luckily for lovers of the former, the Animal Rescue League of Boston offers the kitty equivalent of a one-night stand - without the moral qualms. Volunteers in the Foster Care Program can take charge of a needy cat (or dog, bird, or whatever), nurturing it until it is ready for proper adoption. ARLB volunteer-services manager Debby Vogel knows the process firsthand - she's just finishing up with a litter of six kittens. "There are so many pregnant cats and litters taken with kittens too young to be vaccinated that can pick up diseases in the clinic," she says. "They need an environment where they grow up healthy and socialized." Volunteers commit to only a few weeks of care and caresses; the hard part is breaking up. "Those who can't make the break, and adopt, we call the 'Foster Care Flunkies,' " Vogel explains. For the rest, she says, the consolation is knowing that "you've saved a life."

The Foster Care Program at the Animal Rescue League of Boston, 10 Chandler Street, Boston, (617) 426-9170, www.arlboston.org.