How to Build a Mylar Cat Shelter

Outdoor cats require adequate shelter to protect them from extreme temperatures and inclement weather. Many shelters are available for sale online and at pet stores. But making a Mylar insulated cat shelter can cost far less money, and Mylar has been shown to reduce up to 97 percent of heat loss. A Mylar blanket can be purchased online or from camping stores for under $5. Few other supplies are needed and no woodworking skills are required. The average crafter can construct a cozy cat house in an afternoon.

Things You'll Need

  • Styrofoam cooler
  • Mylar blanket
  • Permanent marker
  • Scissors
  • Duct tape
  • Utility knife
  • Metal ruler
  • Hot glue gun
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the lid from a Styrofoam cooler. Measure the sides and bottom of the cooler.

    • 2

      Unfold a Mylar blanket and lay it out flat. Transfer the measurements of the Styrofoam cooler to the blanket, with a ruler and permanent marker. Cut out the pieces with scissors.

    • 3

      Tape the Mylar sheets to all sides of the Styrofoam cooler, with duct tape. Glue the lid on the cooler, with a hot glue gun. Turn the cooler upside down. The lid is now the shelter floor.

    • 4

      Measure a four-sided doorway, on one long side of the cooler, big enough for a cat to pass through easily. Cut through the Styrofoam only. Cut the exposed Mylar sheet on three sides, leaving one side attached to function as a door flap. Lay the remaining Mylar blanket piece on the shelter floor.