As winter approaches, it’s essential to make sure our community cats have a warm, safe, and comfortable place to call home. These outdoor cats face the challenges of colder temperatures, wind, and snow, making it crucial that we provide them with shelter to weather the season. In this two-part series, we'll be sharing expert tips from Louise on how to create winter shelters and provide effective care during the colder months.

Part I: Building a Cozy Winter Shelter for Your Community Cat

When building a shelter for a community cat, comfort and warmth should be your top priorities. Here's how you can create a safe space that will keep them cozy through the cold weather:

Choose the Right Materials
Insulation is key to keeping the shelter warm. Use materials like foam boards, Styrofoam, or thick plastic to insulate the shelter. These materials help trap heat inside while protecting the cats from the cold air outside.
Elevate the Shelter
Elevate the shelter off the ground to avoid the cold and dampness that can seep through the ground. You can use wooden pallets or bricks to lift the shelter several inches off the ground.
Make It Accessible but Secure
Community cats need to be able to get in and out of their shelters easily but without risk from predators. A small entryway (about 6–8 inches wide) helps prevent larger animals from entering. Ensure the shelter is sturdy, and place it in a location that is safe from heavy winds or floods.
Create a Warm Interior
Inside the shelter, add bedding materials like straw or hay. Avoid using blankets, towels, or pillows, as they retain moisture and can make the shelter damp. The dry straw or hay will provide warmth and comfort without absorbing moisture.
Consider Multiple Shelters
If you’re caring for multiple cats, it’s best to have several shelters spaced a few feet apart. This will give each cat a place to retreat when they need some quiet or if they don’t get along with others.

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Part II: Ensuring Effective Winter Care with Food & Water

Building a warm shelter is just one part of winter care for community cats. Louise also emphasizes the importance of providing adequate food and water to help them stay healthy and strong throughout the colder months.

Provide Enough Food
During the winter, community cats may have to expend more energy to stay warm, so it’s essential to provide high-calorie food that can help them maintain their strength. Opt for wet or dry food that is easy for them to eat. Make sure food is placed in a sheltered area to prevent it from freezing or being blown away.
Keep Water from Freezing
Water is just as important as food, and it’s vital that cats have access to fresh water during the winter. Consider using heated water bowls to keep water from freezing. If that’s not an option, make sure to check and refill the water several times a day to ensure it's not frozen.
Be Mindful of Location
Ensure that the food and water stations are located in sheltered areas, protected from the elements. A roofed area or spot with some coverage will help prevent rain or snow from getting into the food and water, ensuring the cats have access to fresh, clean nourishment.
Monitor the Shelter Regularly
Take the time to check on the shelters regularly. If snow accumulates on the roof, clear it off so it doesn’t collapse. Also, check the condition of the bedding and replace it if it becomes damp. Regular maintenance will ensure the shelters remain safe and functional for the cats.

Winter can be a tough time for community cats, but with the right preparations, we can provide them with the support they need to survive the colder months. From building cozy shelters to providing food and water, every small effort counts in ensuring that these resilient cats stay safe, warm, and healthy.

Stay tuned for more tips and advice on winter care for community cats, and don’t forget to share your own winter shelter stories with us. Together, we can make sure our community cats have a better, more comfortable winter!

Source: Riggi Rescue