As temperatures drop, outdoor cats—whether they are pets, strays, or feral—face challenges surviving the cold. Cats living outside are vulnerable to harsh winter conditions and rely on the kindness of people to provide shelter, food, and water. Here’s a guide to help keep them safe and comfortable during the colder months.
Provide Warm Shelter
Outdoor cats need dry, insulated shelters to protect them from winter’s chill. You can build a shelter yourself using easily accessible materials, such as storage bins or modified dog houses. Be sure the shelter is appropriately sized to retain body heat, as a too-large shelter won’t stay warm. Inside, add straw or Mylar for insulation, as these materials reflect body heat effectively. Avoid using blankets or towels, as they absorb moisture and can make the shelter colder.
Offer Food and Water
Cats require more food in winter to stay warm, but freezing temperatures can make it hard to keep food and water from freezing. Place their food and water near their shelter for easy access, using a canopy between two shelters to protect it from snow and wind. A thick plastic or solar-heated water bowl can help prevent freezing. While food can be placed inside the shelter, water should always be kept outside to prevent spills from making the shelter damp and uncomfortable.
Consider TNR Carefully in Winter
Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs are essential for controlling outdoor cat populations, but trapping during winter requires extra care. Cats undergoing surgery may be more vulnerable to the cold, so only proceed with TNR if you can guarantee a warm, safe shelter for them post-surgery. Winter TNR can actually prevent many springtime births, reducing the need for TNR efforts later on.
Use Community Resources
Building shelters or gathering supplies can be a rewarding group activity. Invite friends, neighbors, or local youth groups to help with construction or gather materials. Some businesses may even donate scrap materials, and used dog houses can be modified into shelters. This collective effort can make a real difference for outdoor cats facing winter.
Help Outdoor Dogs Too
While this guide focuses on outdoor cats, dogs also need similar protection from winter weather. If you know of outdoor dogs in your community, advocate for them to have insulated, weatherproof shelters. Ensuring all outdoor animals have proper shelter and resources during winter is vital for their health and safety.
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Sources:
The Humane Society of The United States – https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/how-care-outdoor-cats-winter
