How to Make an Outdoor Cat Shelter for Winter

Making an outdoor cat shelter for winter allows the cat to find a safe place to go when outside. Outdoor cats may prefer to live outside when the temperature is moderate. However, the cat should always have access to the safety, warmth and comfort of the indoors. If the temperature drops significantly, the cat may freeze. Constructing a small shelter is inexpensive and can be completed in an hour.

Things You'll Need

  • Two heavy-duty Rubbermaid plastic storage containers (50 gallon and 90 quart)
  • Home insulation
  • Duct tape
  • Scissors
  • Bubble wrap
  • Hay
  • Newspaper
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Instructions

    • 1

      Cut a 5-inch by 5-inch hole in each Rubbermaid container in the exact same spot in both. Make sure the hole is 4 to 5 inches above the ground.

    • 2

      Place a thick layer of home insulation on the floor of the 50-gallon bin. Line the walls of the 50-gallon container with insulation.

    • 3

      Place the smaller container into the bigger one. Fill any gaps between the two containers with insulation.

    • 4

      Duct tape two sheets of bubble wrap to opening of each container on the walls where the containers meet. Tape only the top of the sheet. Cut a slit through the middle, so the cat can pass through. The two sheets will help stop wind from entering the container.

    • 5

      Duct tape the edges of the entrance together, this will help cover up the roughness of the cut plastic.

    • 6

      Place several layers of newspaper on the floor of the second container. Cover the newspaper with hay or straw.

    • 7

      Place the lid on securely to the smaller container. Place another lid on the larger container. Duct tape the larger container's lid on securely.

    • 8

      Select a location for the shelter that is sheltered from the wind but in the sun. The container should be close to the home if possible.