Cat Fosterer feeling guilty

I have my first fostered cat - a lovely 18 month year old black cat that was a stray cat but must have had some human companionship in the past as he is very friendly.  My problem is I feel guilty at keeping him in a room on his own for what could be weeks.  He is obviously a cat who loves the outdoors and sits on the windowsill whining every night. I feel like I am imprisoning him but know I can't let him out as he may not come back.  I do spend an hour with him 3 - 4 times a day, and he comes and sleeps on my lap.  But he won't play with anything.  The first cat I have met who isn't interested in the laser pen.  What can I do to stop him being bored.  Is it right to keep a cat in like this - don't they get bored?  I wanted to do my bit this year to help as many cats as I can but feeling this guilty each time is something I don't know I can deal with.

You are feeling guilty because you have a big heart. You will be blessed for your help with these little ones who need someone to love and care for them so desperately. But like a small child, we have to know what is best for them too, would you let a small child go outside alone, of course not!. And even though this is a cat, they still have so many dangers outside it is worth the effort to get them used to staying inside. My heart breaks each time I see the failed results of a cat trying to cross a street, it is just not worth the heartache of letting them enjoy a few moments in the sun. You could train your new charge to a leash, this way he is out for a while, and safe. Remember it may take a while to get them used to a harness, be ready for the theatrics when first put on, my Chrissy would fall over in to her side like she was paralyzed! It takes a while in the house just to get them used to the idea, but well worth it.  Or get a large dog kennel at a garage sale or on one of those buy and sell shows on the radio. he could be in that outside and still be safe. 

What you are doing is priceless, you are saving lives! You are making it possible for that sweet cat to find a forever home. Love him and then let him go,don't get discouraged, you will gain confidence and knowledge with practice. Good luck and I will pray for you to be successful!

PS You found a solution to your not knowing how to deal with a different situation than you have encountered, The Cat Site! What better place to come to than this site with all it's knowledge and the countless experienced people on it? I would bet there is nothing on this site that hasn't been dealt with, and if not, the experience and knowledge to figure it out. Welcome, and keep posting, the pool of knowledge grows with each new member and YOU can most likely help someone else!  

I just bought this for my cat, I haven't used it outside yet, as it is winter, but my cat will love it, he loves going outside!  If you are going to have multiple foster kitties along the way, might be worth investing in something like this.  It is really easy to set up, is a huge space, and easy to fold back up.  Might be a good alternative for harness training.

ABO Gear Happy Habitat