How to Build an Outdoor Shelter for a Feral Cat

According to the Cornell University School of Veterinary Medicine, there are an estimated 87 million feral cats in the U.S. Most live near populated areas and depend on humans for food and shelter. It's important to keep feral cats warm and dry in winter. They are prone to respiratory illness and other medical problems, and those conditions can become life-threatening when a cat is cold and wet. Shelters can be as simple as a modified plastic foam cooler or as complex as a layered wooden cat condo. Below are instructions for a basic rubber tub shelter recommended by the CSM Stray Foundation of New York.

Things You'll Need

  • Large plastic tub with lid
  • Box cutters
  • Plastic foam such as Styrofoam
  • Straw
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Cut a 6x6-inch hole into the side of the tub near the corner and roughly 5 inches from the bottom. Make sure you work with the lid side up.

    • 2
      Measure and cut pieces of plastic foam such as Styrofoam to line the tub.

      Measure pieces of plastic foam to fit the base, sides and top of the tub. Cut the side pieces about 3 inches shorter than the height of the tub. Place the bottom piece in first, followed by the sides. Mark the area where you've created the hole and cut out the plastic foam to match.

    • 3
      Straw makes an excellent insulator.

      Place a thick layer of straw in the tub for insulation. Do not use bedding or towels, because fabric will mildew in wet weather.

    • 4

      Place the final piece of plastic foam on top. Cover the tub with its lid.