DIY: Igloo Cat Beds

When the temperatures drop, feral and other outdoor cats need shelter from the cold. Make low cost cat igloos with polystyrene foam containers. The insulating properties of polystyrene foam make cat igloos refuges from the cold for cats that may have no other place to go and provide a warm, dry nest for sleeping or hiding. Ask local restaurants if they have any polystyrene foam containers from meat or fish deliveries or use polystyrene foam coolers.

Things You'll Need

  • Polystyrene foam boxes
  • Utility knife
  • Contact paper
  • Duct tape
  • Straw
  • Bricks
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Wash polystyrene foam boxes with soap and water and dry completely.

    • 2

      Decide on a style for the cat bed based on the shape of the container. The structure will be sturdier if the igloo is longer than it is tall.

    • 3

      Line the inside walls, floor and sides with contact paper to prevent the cat from scratching the polystyrene foam.

    • 4

      Use a utility knife to cut a hole about six inches in diameter on one side.

    • 5

      Cut a second hole on another side as an emergency exit for the cat.

    • 6

      Line the jagged edges of the holes with duct tape to prevent the foam from flaking.

    • 7

      Place a layer of straw on the bottom for bedding. An inch or more offers enough padding for the cat to burrow.

    • 8

      Attach the top of the box. Use duct tape to secure edges together. Wrap more tape around the igloo in the opposite direction for extra stability.

    • 9

      Place cat igloo in an area that is accessible to the cat, but slightly sheltered from wind, such as under a tree. If possible, elevate the igloo slightly by putting it on bricks. This prevents the igloo from getting flooded or snow covering the entrance.

    • 10

      Weigh down the igloo by placing rocks or bricks on top.