If you’re a cat lover, you’ve probably seen feral cats living outdoors and wondered how you can help them. One of the best ways to assist these cats is by building them a shelter where they can stay warm, safe, and comfortable. A shelter is especially important for feral cats who don’t have a home to go to. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make a cat shelter home, how to create a safe spot for feral cats, and how to encourage them to use the shelter.
Why Do Cats Need Shelters?
First, let’s understand why it’s important to provide shelters for cats. Whether it’s a pet cat or a feral one, cats need shelter to stay healthy. Here are a few reasons why:
Protection from the Weather: Cats need protection from rain, snow, and cold temperatures. A shelter can keep them safe from harsh weather.
Safety: A shelter gives cats a safe space away from predators or other dangers.
Health: Feral cats can be exposed to illness or parasites, but a shelter helps keep them healthy by providing a clean, dry place to rest.
Comfort: Cats love comfort. A cozy shelter can give them a quiet place to sleep and feel safe.
How to Make a Feral Cat Shelter
Building a shelter for a feral cat is easier than you might think. Here’s how to do it step by step.
Step 1: Choose the Right Spot
The first thing you need to do is pick the right location for the shelter. You want to place it in a quiet, safe spot. Look for a place that is sheltered from the wind and away from busy areas. If you are helping a specific feral cat, try placing the shelter in an area where the cat has been spotted before. A corner of your yard, a quiet area near a food source, or behind a shed can be good spots.
Step 2: Pick the Right Materials
The materials you use will play a big role in how effective the shelter is. Here’s what you’ll need to make sure the shelter is sturdy, safe, and warm:
- Storage Container or Box: A plastic storage bin or styrofoam cooler works well. Styrofoam is a great insulator and can keep the shelter warmer in winter.
- Weatherproofing Materials: Use tape, plastic sheets, or waterproof adhesive to make sure the shelter is sealed and won’t let in water or cold.
- Insulation: Fill the shelter with straw or foam for insulation. These materials help keep the temperature inside the shelter stable, both in winter and summer.
- Small Entrance: The entrance should be just big enough for the cat to fit through. A small hole or flap will keep out larger animals while giving the cat easy access.
Step 3: Build the Shelter
Now that you have the materials, it’s time to put everything together. Follow these steps to build a simple shelter:
- Cut an Entrance: If you’re using a plastic bin, cut a hole in the side that’s about 6-7 inches tall and 4-5 inches wide. This size is perfect for a cat to get in and out easily.
- Add Insulation: Line the inside of the shelter with straw, foam, or blankets. The insulation helps the shelter stay warm in winter and cool in the summer.
- Seal the Shelter: Use weatherproof tape or caulk to seal the cracks or gaps around the shelter. This keeps the shelter draft-free and dry.
- Add Bedding: Place a layer of straw, blankets, or old towels inside the shelter to make it cozy and comfortable for the cat.
Step 4: Keep the Shelter Dry
Moisture can make the shelter uncomfortable and unhealthy for the cat. To keep the shelter dry, place it a few inches off the ground. You can put it on bricks or a wooden pallet to prevent water from getting inside.
How to Get a Feral Cat to Use a Shelter
Building the shelter is just part of the process. The next step is getting the feral cat to use it. Cats, especially feral ones, can be cautious about new things. Here are some tips to encourage a feral cat to use the shelter you’ve made:
Step 1: Make the Shelter Appealing
You need to make the shelter inviting to the cat. Here are a few things you can do:
Food: Place some of the cat’s favorite food near the shelter or inside it. The smell of food will help draw the cat in.
Scent: Feral cats can be comforted by familiar smells. You can place an old blanket or piece of clothing inside the shelter to make it smell like you, which can make the cat feel safer.
Step 2: Keep the Shelter Quiet and Safe
Feral cats are easily scared, so you need to make sure the shelter is in a calm, quiet area. Avoid disturbing the shelter too much, especially if the cat is still hesitant to go inside. The more peaceful and undisturbed the area is, the more likely the cat will feel comfortable entering.
Step 3: Be Patient
It can take some time for a feral cat to trust the shelter. Keep feeding the cat near or inside the shelter, and be patient. Eventually, the cat will start to feel more comfortable with the shelter, especially if it is regularly fed.
Step 4: Gradually Introduce the Shelter
If the cat isn’t immediately using the shelter, don’t worry. You can try gradually getting the cat used to it. Leave the door open at first, so the cat can go in and out freely. Over time, the cat may start using it as a regular resting spot.
Extra Tips for Building a Cat Shelter at Home
Use Waterproof Materials: Make sure your shelter can withstand rain or snow, especially if you live in an area with cold winters.
Create Multiple Shelters: If you’re helping several feral cats, consider building multiple shelters in different areas.
Keep It Low Maintenance: You can keep the shelter simple and low-maintenance by regularly checking it for damage or dampness.
Conclusion: A Safe Place for Cats
Building a shelter for a feral cat is an easy but important way to help these animals. By providing a warm, dry, and safe place, you’re giving a feral cat a chance to thrive, even in tough conditions. Remember to choose the right location, build a simple but sturdy shelter, and make it inviting for the cat. With patience and care, your shelter will become a trusted space for the cat to rest and stay safe.
For more tips on how to care for cats, check out Cattoptips, where we share helpful advice for all kinds of cat care needs.
