Winter Care for Colony Cats

Although feral cats develop thick winter coats, they can still suffer from exposure in extreme cold. Providing adequate shelter is the single most important thing you can do for colony cats during winter months.

Key Winter Needs:

• Insulated, weatherproof shelters
• Increased food portions (cats burn more calories staying warm)
• Unfrozen water sources
• Dry bedding that doesn't retain moisture

Winter is when cats need you most. Having backup caretakers is essential - if you're unable to tend to the colony during severe weather, the cats still need care.

The Plastic Bin Shelter (Most Popular)

Materials:

• Two plastic storage bins (18-gallon inner, 30-gallon outer)
• Straw (NOT hay) for insulation
• Utility knife
• Styrofoam cooler (optional, for extra insulation)

Steps:

1. Cut a 6-inch diameter doorway in one side of both bins, positioned so they align
2. Line the bottom of the larger bin with straw
3. Place the smaller bin inside, surrounded by straw on all sides
4. Fill the inner bin with straw for bedding
5. Place the lid on the outer bin

Alternative: Styrofoam Cooler Shelter

• Use a thick-walled styrofoam cooler (available at Walmart for ~$5)
• Cut a 6-inch doorway in one side
• Fill with straw
• Tape or weight the lid down

Place shelters in protected areas, with doorways facing away from prevailing winds.

Always use STRAW, never hay!

Straw is the ideal bedding because:

• It repels moisture and stays dry
• It creates air pockets that trap body heat
• It doesn't mold or decompose quickly
• Cats can burrow into it for warmth

Hay is problematic because:

• It absorbs and retains moisture
• Wet hay draws heat away from cats
• It molds quickly, causing respiratory issues
• It compacts and loses insulating properties

Also avoid:

• Blankets and towels (absorb moisture, freeze)
• Newspapers (provide little insulation when wet)
• Cedar chips (can irritate respiratory systems)

Increased Nutrition

Cats need extra calories in winter to maintain body heat. Provide larger portions or feed more frequently during cold snaps.

Preventing Frozen Water

• Use deep, insulated bowls (less surface area to freeze)
• Black or dark bowls absorb solar heat
• Place water in sheltered locations
• Consider heated water bowls if electricity is available
• Bring hot water to refill bowls daily

Warm Food

• Warm up canned food before serving
• Add warm water to wet food for extra moisture and warmth
• Dry food won't freeze, so always provide some alongside wet food

Feeding Schedule

Try to feed during the warmest part of the day if possible, and remove uneaten wet food before it freezes.