How to make a house for a cat on the street for the winter with your own hands?

How to make a house for a cat on the street for the winter with your own hands? - briefly

To create a warm and cozy winter shelter for a stray cat, use a plastic storage bin as the base. Cut an entrance hole in one side, insulate the interior with straw or foam board, and place it in a sheltered location, such as under a porch or against a wall.

How to make a house for a cat on the street for the winter with your own hands? - in detail

Creating a warm and cozy shelter for stray cats during the winter months is an act of kindness that can significantly improve their well-being. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to build a cat house using simple materials and tools:

1. Materials Needed:

   • A large plastic storage bin with a lid (ensure it's big enough for the cats to comfortably fit inside)
   • Insulation foam (optional but recommended for extra warmth)
   • Reflective foil or bubble wrap
   • Duct tape
   • Scissors or a utility knife
   • A drill with a small bit (for ventilation)
   • Straw or soft blankets

2. Preparation:

   • Choose a location that is protected from strong winds and heavy rainfall. Ideally, it should be in a quiet and secluded area where cats feel safe.
   • Ensure the spot you choose is level to prevent the house from wobbling or tipping over.

3. Insulating the Bin:

   • If using insulation foam, cut pieces that fit snugly inside the bin. This extra layer will help retain heat and keep the interior cozy.
   • Secure the insulation foam with duct tape to ensure it stays in place.

4. Creating a Warm Interior:

   • Line the bottom of the bin with straw or soft blankets. Straw is preferable because it provides good insulation and can be easily replaced if it gets wet.
   • Ensure there's enough space for the cats to move around comfortably.

5. Adding Reflective Foil:

   • Cut the reflective foil or bubble wrap to fit the inside walls of the bin. This material helps to reflect body heat back into the shelter, creating a warmer environment.
   • Secure the reflective foil with duct tape.

6. Ventilation:

   • Use a drill to make small holes in the sides and lid of the bin for ventilation. These holes should be just large enough to allow airflow but small enough to keep out drafts and moisture.

7. Creating an Entrance:

   • Cut a rectangular opening on one side of the bin, approximately 6-8 inches high and wide enough for a cat to easily enter. This can be done with scissors or a utility knife.
   • Make sure the opening is not too low to the ground to prevent rainwater from entering the shelter.

8. Testing the Shelter:

   • Before placing it outside, test the shelter by sitting inside it for a few minutes. Ensure that it's comfortable and warm enough for a cat.
   • Make any necessary adjustments based on your comfort level.

9. Placement and Maintenance:

   • Place the shelter in its chosen location. You can weigh it down with bricks or stones to ensure it stays in place during windy conditions.
   • Check the shelter regularly, especially after heavy rain or snowfall. Replace any wet straw or blankets with dry ones to maintain a cozy environment for the cats.

By following these steps, you can create a simple yet effective shelter that will provide stray cats with much-needed warmth and protection during the cold winter months.