We’re excited to kick off a new series dedicated to caring for community cat colonies! Over the next few weeks, we’ll be sharing essential tips and guidance on how you can make life easier for our outdoor feline friends. From providing food and trapping to building shelters and managing colonies, we’ll cover everything you need to know.

Today, we’re starting with Winter Shelters. As the temperature drops, it becomes crucial to protect community cats from the cold. Here’s how you can help:

Step 1: Build Simple, Warm Shelters for Community Cats 🏠❄️

In winter, cats need insulated, weatherproof shelters to keep them safe from the elements. These shelters don’t have to be complicated; in fact, the best ones are simple, cost-effective, and built to trap body heat. Here’s how you can get started:

• Use the Right Materials: Plastic bins, large storage containers, and Styrofoam coolers are great building blocks. Add straw (not hay) for insulation—straw is great for keeping cats warm and dry.

• Keep It Cozy: Shelters should be small enough to hold in body heat but large enough for the cats to move around. A two-cat shelter is a good size!

• Position Matters: Place shelters in quiet, sheltered areas where cats already hang out. Keep entrances away from the wind, and if possible, elevate the shelter off the ground to keep it dry. Take a look at this helpful YouTube video.

By building or donating winter shelters, you’ll be helping to save lives and keeping community cats comfortable during the harshest months. Stay tuned for more posts in our series, where we’ll dive into feeding strategies, healthcare tips, and colony management!