With temperatures dropping, providing a warm shelter can make a world of difference for stray and feral cats, helping them stay comfortable and safe from harsh winter conditions. Here’s a step-by-step guide to building a simple, effective, and insulated cat shelter, with suggestions on useful materials you can buy online to streamline the process.
1. Understanding the Needs of Stray and Feral Cats
Feral and stray cats face unique challenges in winter, including exposure to low temperatures, rain, and snow. A cat shelter provides not only warmth but also protection from predators. The ideal shelter:
- Is small enough to retain warmth, but large enough for one or two cats.
- Has waterproof, insulated walls to resist moisture.
- Features an entrance that provides easy access but limits exposure to wind.
Let’s go over how you can create a shelter that meets these needs with a few materials and some simple construction.
2. Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Cat Shelter
Materials Needed
To build a sturdy, winter-proof cat shelter, here’s a list of recommended materials:
- Plastic storage bin with lid (18-20 gallons) – Forms the main body of the shelter.
- Sterilite 18 Gallon Plastic Storage Tote (easy to cut and affordable)
- Foam insulation board or Styrofoam sheets – Provides insulation to keep the shelter warm.
- Foam Board Insulation (can be cut to fit the interior walls)
- Mylar thermal blanket – Reflects body heat to keep the inside warm.
- Emergency Mylar Thermal Blankets (effective, affordable option)
- Straw – Great for bedding, as it repels moisture and provides warmth.
- Pet Straw Bedding (made specifically for animals)
- Box cutter or utility knife – For cutting entrances and insulation material.
Construction Steps
- Prepare the Storage Bin
Using the box cutter, cut a round opening on one side of the bin, about 6-8 inches in diameter and roughly 3 inches above the base. This keeps the interior dry and warm while providing easy access for the cats. - Add Insulation
Line the inner walls, floor, and lid with foam insulation board. Cut each piece to fit snugly. Ensure that there’s a bit of space between the insulation and the plastic walls to maximize warmth retention. Use duct tape to secure the insulation. - Install the Mylar Thermal Blanket
Place a Mylar thermal blanket on the inner walls over the foam insulation to reflect heat back into the shelter. Secure it with tape. This blanket can be especially helpful in keeping the shelter warm without additional heating. - Add Straw Bedding
Fill the shelter with a thick layer of straw. Unlike blankets or towels, straw resists moisture and remains dry, making it an ideal insulating material. Avoid using hay, as it absorbs moisture and can lead to mold or mildew, which is unsafe for cats. - Secure the Lid
Snap the lid onto the bin tightly. You can reinforce the lid with weatherproof duct tape to ensure it stays closed and protects the interior from snow and rain.
3. Alternative Shelter Options for Winter
If DIY construction isn’t ideal, there are a few pre-made cat shelters you can purchase and modify for extra insulation.
- Insulated Kitty House
- K&H Outdoor Heated Kitty House – This heated shelter is waterproof and comes with a fleece pad. Add extra insulation or straw to maximize warmth.
- Portable Outdoor Cat Shelter
- EcoFlex Outdoor Cat House – Durable and resistant to cold. Add insulation layers for added warmth.
4. Additional Tips for Keeping Cats Warm
- Shelter Placement
Position the shelter near bushes or against a wall to protect it from strong winds and provide extra warmth. Avoid setting it directly on the ground; place it on bricks or wood pallets to keep it dry. - Create a Wind Block
If the area is very windy, create a small “door flap” with thick, weatherproof plastic over the entrance. This protects the cats from gusts without obstructing access. - Refresh Bedding Regularly
To maintain a clean, dry shelter, replace the straw every two to three weeks. Wet bedding can reduce warmth and make the shelter uncomfortable. - Ensure Access to Fresh Water
Provide water daily and consider using a heated bowl if you live in an area where water freezes easily.
5. FAQ on Outdoor Cat Shelters
Q: Why is straw better than hay or blankets for cat bedding?
A: Straw is lightweight, dry, and helps retain warmth without holding moisture. Blankets and hay can get wet, losing their insulating properties and leading to mold or mildew.
Q: How can I make the shelter more stable during winter storms?
A: Secure the shelter to a heavier surface, like bricks or wood, and add weight (such as rocks) around the base to prevent it from tipping over.
Q: Should I add food inside the shelter?
A: It’s best to keep food and water outside the shelter, as spilled food can attract pests. Set up a feeding station nearby instead.
Q: Is a heated shelter necessary?
A: Not necessarily; with proper insulation, cats can stay warm. However, a heating pad made for outdoor pet use can provide extra comfort if temperatures are extremely low.
Building a cat shelter is a simple, impactful way to help feral and stray cats survive the winter comfortably. By following these steps and incorporating the suggested products, you’ll create a safe, warm space that could make all the difference for a cat in need this season.