Helping Stray Cats Survive Winter: Simple Ways to Keep Them Safe and Warm

Winter can be tough for stray cats who don’t have access to consistent shelter or care. Although cats are known for their resourcefulness and independence, shorter days, freezing temperatures, and limited food sources increase their health risks. Providing a little support can go a long way toward keeping them safe.

How to help keep cats warm this winter

Even cats accustomed to living outdoors benefit from helping hands during the winter. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), despite cats’ fur coats, exposure to cold weather can lead to frostbite and hypothermia. Fortunately, there are a few options for making winter more bearable and safer for the cats who need it most.

DIY shelters

Simple, insulated enclosures built from inexpensive materials are one of the most affordable ways to help outdoor cats stay warm. A well-insulated, small enclosure protects cats from wind, rain, and snow. 

Store-bought insulated or heated shelters

If DIY isn’t your style, consider purchasing an outdoor cat house from a pet supply store or looking online for used options. These structures are specially designed for cold weather and come with insulation and waterproof features. You may even find options that include outdoor heating pads for added warmth.

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Modified outdoor spaces

There may be spaces in your yard that can provide protection from at least some of the elements. If you have an overhang, use tarps to enclose the area and place a litter box lined with straw for cats to sleep in. It won’t offer as much warmth as compact structures, but it will help keep some of the cold and moisture out.

Strategically placed shelter

Cats prefer quiet, hidden spots where they feel safe. When finding a place to put the shelter, look for options that are:

• Away from busy sidewalks

• Protected from dogs or other animals

• Hidden by shrubs or structures

• Near access to food and water

Keeping these considerations in mind will increase the likelihood that a stray cat will use the shelter.

via Humane Colorado/

How to build a DIY shelter for stray cats

Good news: You don’t need building experience to make an insulated cat shelter. Here’s a quick guide to help you support stray cats when temperatures drop. For more detailed instructions, check out these guides by Humane Colorado and SPCA of Wake County.

1. Select a waterproof container: Rubber storage bins with lids are great options and are easy to cut with a box cutter. Pick a size big enough for one or two cats. If the structure is too big, it won’t help cats retain their body heat.

2. Cut a small entrance: Create a five- to six-inch opening. It should be just big enough for cats to enter — but not larger animals. Place the hole on one side of the container to help reduce wind exposure.

3. Add insulation: Line all sides of the container with styrofoam, foam mats, or mylar blankets, which reflect heat back toward the cat.

4. Fill with straw: Straw adds warmth and — unlike hay, blankets, or towels — won’t retain moisture and freeze.

5. Elevate the shelter: Place the shelter on wood or blocks to prevent chill from the ground transferring to the shelter.

Artem Kniaz / Unsplash/

Other ways to help stray cats in the winter

A warm, dry shelter is essential, but there are additional ways to support outdoor cats during the winter months.

Ensure access to food

Cats use more energy in cold weather, so regular meals are essential to maintain body weight and warmth. When selecting food, you have a couple of options. Wet food requires less energy to digest, but may freeze if it gets too cold. If you opt for wet food, be sure to check it throughout the day. If providing dry food, consider using a kitten formula, which has a higher calorie content. For best results, follow these feeding tips.

• Put the food out at the same time each day, so cats learn when to expect a meal.

• Place food in sheltered feeding stations near the cat enclosure.

Prevent water from freezing

Hydration is just as critical as calories, but can be difficult to find when the weather dips below freezing. The following strategies will ensure outdoor cats have a daily source of fresh water.

• Use heated outdoor pet water bowls.

• Choose deep, insulated bowls that retain warmth.

• Refresh water at least twice a day if heated bowls aren’t available.

• Place water inside a mini-shelter or under an overhang to reduce the risk of freezing.

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Reduce winter hazards

After it snows, clear short paths for cats to reach their shelter safely and remove any snow that has built up around the shelter entrance. When removing snow, avoid using salt or chemical ice melts around feeding or shelter areas, because these can irritate a cat’s paws. Antifreeze is another hazard to avoid near the shelter — it’s both toxic and tempting to cats.

Look for signs that a cat needs more help

Some cats fare better outside than others. If a cat is vocalizing at your door, appears thin, or seems disoriented, they may need more support. Not sure where to start? These additional Adopt a Pet resources have some helpful information.

• What to do with a stray cat

• Does animal control pick up cats?

Commonly asked questions

Can stray cats survive cold temperatures?

Cats can adapt to a range of temperatures, but frostbite and hypothermia are real risks, especially when temperatures drop below freezing. Senior cats, kittens, and sick or thin cats are the most vulnerable. 

How do I encourage a stray cat to use the shelter?

Most outdoor cats will investigate a shelter once they detect warmth and safety. You can help by:

• Placing the shelter in a safe, quiet location

• Adding a small amount of catnip or treats near the entrance to entice them

• Keeping the interior dry and clean

Do stray cats need to be rescued?

Not always. Many feral cats prefer living outdoors and are healthiest when supported through trap-neuter-release programs and colony care. On the other hand, stray cats who are in distress may need more intervention. If a friendly cat seems ill, malnourished, or injured, check out our guidance on what to do when you find a stray cat.

Can I bring a cat indoors during winter?

This depends on the cat. Previously homed stray cats may welcome the warmth and safety of being inside, especially during extreme cold. However, feral cats should not be brought indoors. Cats who aren’t used to confinement or human interaction may become stressed, attempt to escape, or injure themselves or you. If you’re unsure whether a cat is feral or stray, our guide can help you decide.

References

Christiansen, DeShawn. “Keep Feral Cats Warm in Cold Temperatures - Winnebago County Animal Services.” Winnebago County Animal Services, 30 June 2021, winnebagoanimals.org/keeping-feral-cats-warm-during-the-winter.

“Cold Weather Animal Safety.” American Veterinary Medical Association, www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/cold-weather-animal-safety.

“How to Care for Outdoor Cats in Winter.” Humane World for Animals, 2022, www.humaneworld.org/en/resources/how-care-outdoor-cats-winter.