In Quebec (Canada), winters can reach -40 degrees Celsius. It is therefore essential to make shelters to help stray cats through the winter. Even if winters are not as intense everywhere in the world, these shelters will allow cats to find refuge during cold, rain, wind or simply to sleep peacefully and feel protected. Do not hesitate to make some at home to help them.
It is possible to build a shelter inexpensively, you just need to be creative and use your contacts. Here is how you can get there in just a few steps!
Material required:
- Box with lid
- Styrofoam sheets for insulation (insulation sheets that carry Evive smoothies also work)
- A good duct tape
- Straw
- Tool to cut part of the plastic box
Step #1
Cut the styrofoam sheets to the right size and install them in the shelter. It is very important to install a piece at the bottom. We install a sheet of styrofoam on all sides and at the bottom of the plastic bin.
Step #2
Secure all styrofoam sheets together using duct tape. It is better to use too much in order to cover all the cracks. There must be no drafts, so no visible holes.
Step #3
Create a space of about 5 inches (13 cm) in diameter so that the cat can enter. I personally have access to a “hole saw” thanks to my parents, but the hole can very well be made with an exacto knife (box cutter). Simply mark the hole first. For this step, don’t hesitate to ask someone for help if you are uncomfortable. We wouldn’t want someone to get hurt!
Step #4
Install the straw and put enough of it so that the cat can snuggle up warmly. Straw can be found in nurseries, especially in the fall. For my part, I ask my farmer friends. They never say no! It is important to put straw rather than a blanket because the blanket will keep the humidity and will not keep the cat warm unlike the straw.
Step #5
Put a sheet of styrofoam on top so that the shelter is well insulated.
Step #6
Add the plastic box cover and secure it if it does not hold tight. It can be secured using duct tape or screws.
Please feel free to join the “Hardware Exchange Group” Facebook group at the following link https://www.facebook.com/groups/1172315036497871 to join the community. We exchange materials, but also advice.
Thank you for supporting the stray cats’ cause, they need us!
Author: Chats au chaud – Quebec movement to protect stray cats from winter (Canada)
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