This winter season, not every animal is lucky enough to have a loving family that’ll keep them warm. There are between 60 and 100 million stray cats in the United States, and they desperately need all of the help that they can get when the cold sets in. Here are some things that you can do to help them, no matter where you stay.
A Shelter
The most crucial thing to a feral cat is a warm shelter to hide in when it gets cold. With conditions like snow storms and rain on the horizon, a simple shelter made out of storage bins or old dog houses could save some lives. To make sure it’s insulated, pack the bottom of the shelter with some straw and make sure no moisture can get in.
Use Insulated Feeding Stations
If you’re leaving food and water out for strays, it can be difficult to keep them undamaged from the harsh elements. Insulated feeding stations will ensure that food stays dry and water doesn’t freeze. Stray cats will smell the dry food and come for it.
Monitor Food and Water Daily
Although Feeding Stations should keep food and water insulated for long periods of time, it’s a good idea to check on them once per day, as they could either be empty or damaged by the weather. If more strays are around, you may need to fill the food station more often.
Offer Extra Food
All animals need more calories in winter to sustain themselves, and that couldn’t be more true for feral cats. Wet food is easier for them to digest and is full of calories, as well as a bit of moisture for hydration. These things are all vital to feral cats when the temperature drops.
Clear Snow from Entrances
When heavy snowfall comes, cats can get stuck either in or outside of their shelters. Check any shelters or food stations to make sure that the snow hasn’t blocked off access to these facilities. With the snow cleared, ferals will be able to come and go as they please and access food and water.
Keep Water from Freezing
Feral cats, as well as all animals, desperately need access to fresh water. Even water kept in insulated food stations can freeze given enough time. To combat this, putting out warm water or finding sunny spots during the day will make sure the water stays liquid.
Prepare for Severe Weather
Stockpiling food when you know you may not be able to check on food stations or won’t be able to check on them could save some ferals, although it could also backfire if the food station becomes compromised. Still, it’s better to leave more food if you know you won’t be able to add more later anyway.
Check Under Cars
Because of the freezing temperatures, feral and even pet cats will seek refuge wherever it’s warmest. Sometimes, that’s the hot engine of a parked vehicle. This can create hazardous situations when the owner of the vehicle needs to drive. When planning to drive, check the bottom of the car for any cats hiding there.
Avoid Harmful Chemicals
An effective way of clearing away ice and snow from walkways and roads are chemicals or salt. These can be harmful to animals both if ingested and if stepped on. Try not to over-rely on these products as they can have a detrimental affect to animals.
Volunteering
A great way to support local strays is to engage with local animal welfare groups to see how you can help. Donations are always appreciated and sometimes other volunteers may need help with keeping other ferals fed and sheltered.
Educate Others About Feral Cats
Raise awareness about the needs of feral cats in your community by educating others on how they can help during the winter months. Share information about building shelters, providing food, and maintaining safe environments for these animals.
Use Safe Heating Options
If you want to provide warmth inside shelters, consider using safe heating options like heated pads designed for pets. Ensure they are safe and do not pose a fire hazard while providing additional warmth during frigid nights.
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