How to Help Feral Cats Survive Winter

For those of us in most of the United States, winter isn't far away. And for those of us who feed feral cats to keep them from starving, it's time to prepare for cold weather.

Whether you feed one cat or several colonies, there's a lot you can do to help the cats find a safe place to survive in even the most vicious winter weather.

Your first concern should be offering the cats shelter. Sometimes Fall triggers a decision about whether or not to adopt. Three weeks ago, my husband and I decided to adopt two feral kittens who had been stopping by with their mom to eat at our patio door since early summer. In August, the kittens decided to wander inside from time to time through the open door. Mom did not and will seldom come nearer than six feet as we continue to feed her. We did not want to leave the kittens outside in cold weather.

If you're not in a position to adopt, you will want to buy or make some type of shelter. According to the article Coming in from the Cold, cats who otherwise would rip each other apart are often willing to snuggle a bit when the temperatures drop. You might be wrong if you think you need an expensive cat condominium complex to house several animals. Chances are, they'll peacefully co-exist to stay warm. You probably can house two or three cats together.

Despite a more cooperative spirit overall during cold temperatures, feral cats still some type of protection from the elements. The extra-thick coat they grow in the Fall is not sufficient to keep them from dying from exposure without at least some cover from the weather.

This article states that the cat rescue group known as Alley Cat Allies suggests that any shelter be a minimum of 2 feet wide, 3 feet long, and 18 inches high. The opening should be small enough to keep out larger animals such as dogs and 'possums. A plastic flap or L-shaped entrance helps keep cold air from blowing into the shelter. It's wise to use a structure small enough to transport in your vehicle should there be an emergency.

Oreo, adopted September 2007

Credit: Paul Lemons and Vonda Sines

Copyright: Paul Lemons and Vonda Sines