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Metrocat Resources

DIY Shelter for Feral Cats

Can cats handle cold weather? Feral cat colonies and wildlife are particularly susceptible to extreme weather conditions. While vital as the temperatures plummet in the winter, these DIY shelters for feral cats can help them survive as temperatures rise in the summer.

If you live in an area where you frequently see feral cats and have the resources, you can help take care of them by creating a temporary weatherproof sanctuary. What do you need? Waterproof materials that provide good insulation.

Here’s a simple guide for a DIY shelter for the community cats in your area.

Supplies Needed to Build a Winter Enclosure

  • 30 gallon storage container with a lid
    • We used a 30 gallon Sterilite tote
  • Insulation Sheet: 4×8 polystyrene 11/2′ thick
  • Duct or Gorilla Tape
  • Sharpie Marker
  • Straw
    • Avoid: Hay. Hay will mold when wet
  • Utility Knife or Styrofoam Cutter (aka a Hot Knife)
  • Drill (optional)
  • Measuring Tape

Template

Step One

Following the template below, measure and trace foam sheet on the non-silver side. You should have 2 sides, 2 ends, a bottom, and a top piece. One piece of insulation at the recommended size will be enough to produce insulation for two enclosures.

Step Two

Cut out your pieces of insulation using the utility or Styrofoam knife.

Step Three

Measure and trace a 6-inch x 6-inch door on the tote, then use the utility knife to cut the door hole. A drill will make this this process easier but is not necessary.

  • If you use only the utility knife, begin by positioning the knife at one corner of the traced door and insert before carefully dragging it along the traced line to cut out the side of the door. Repeat the process at each corner until all sides are cut, then push the door out.
  • If you have a drill, you can simplify the task by drilling a hole in each corner of the traced door. Then, use the utility knife to cut between the holes, following the traced lines.

Step Four

Gather all of your pieces. Set aside the top piece of insulation. You will need this in step 5.

Starting with the bottom, place the insulation inside the container, making sure the silver side is facing inward. If any pieces don’t fit properly, remove and trim them until they fit snugly in the container.

Step Five

Once all of the insulation is in place and snug, cut a piece of tape about 5 to 10 inches long and begin taping the sides and bottom insulation together.

Test the top. Place the top piece of insulation on then secure the lid. If the lid doesn’t fit, trim the piece pieces and test it again.

Step Six

Once the interior insulation is fully taped and secure, carefully remove it from the container.

Use tape to connect and secure all of the insulation pieces together from the outside before turning it to the container.

Step Seven

Using the door hole from Step One as a guide, trace and cut along the opening through the insulation. Remove the cut insulation to reveal the door.

Step Eight

Seal the door opening using tape. Be sure to completely cover the gap between the container and the insulation to prevent air from leaking through.

Step Nine

Take the straw and pack it inside the container, filling any remaining gaps between the container and the insulated walls. Once that is complete, place the top piece of insulation into the container and close the tote lid securely.

Now place your enclosure outside for your feral cats to enjoy!