Winter is here. While we are fortunate that our winter has been relatively mild so far, we have now experienced the beginning of what we know will be several months of harsh weather to come. Do you ever wonder where feral cats go to stay dry and warm during those cold winter months? Feral cat colonies often form where there is a food source and some semblance of shelter. This shelter may be a carport, gazebo, garage, warehouse, basement with access, barn, storage room, tool shed, out-building, under a house, porch or other structure, in an abandoned building and other such locations. While these locations may be adequate for the cats, they are often not acceptable locations from the perspective of the land or homeowner, thus caretakers need to provide alternate shelter. In addition to providing a warm and dry place to sleep at night, a shelter can also provide a safe place away from predators and hostile situations.

Shelter is essential for all cats living out-of-doors. For a colony caretaker, after the requirements for feeding are in place, shelter is the next greatest concern. In cold weather, shelter is just as important as food for feral cats. Even though feral cats develop thicker coats for winter, when their fur gets wet in rain or snow, it quickly loses much of its insulating ability. A wet, cold cat can quickly succumb to hypothermia or frostbite. Outdoor cats such as strays and ferals are susceptible to parasites, respiratory infections and minor illnesses. Combined with cold, wet weather, these relatively minor problems can prove fatal, so shelter is important for keeping your feral cats healthy.

Cats will stay warmer in a small, cozy shelter. Use of loose bedding material in the shelter allows the cats to nest into it and provide a windbreak. Bedding typically consists of straw (not hay), or wood chips and similar materials. Cedar bedding materials may be added in small amounts to provide flea resistance. Do NOT use blankets, towels, etc. inside the shelter, as fabric tends to pick up moisture and will not provide the warmth necessary. If at all possible, raise the shelter off of the ground to prevent it from getting wet.

If your feral colony is located on your property, you will have more options for safe shelter for them, but the basics for warmth and protection from the elements are the same. With a little effort, safe and dry shelter can be created under a house or within other existing structures. Even if you are planning to use an existing structure for the basic shelter, you will want to provide "shelter within the shelter" if it is a large space.

If you need to provide shelter on property other than your own, providing shelter can be challenging. Ideally, you will gain the permission of the property owner, but even with permission, most property owners prefer a structure that blends with the environment. It is recommended that neutral and earth tones be used to camouflage and conceal the shelter. Location of the shelter is important. All shelters should be out of sight no matter how friendly the area may appear to be. Shelters should be located away from areas of vehicle and foot traffic since the cats may tend to congregate near the shelter. Locating it in a wooded area, or in the margin of a wooded area is ideal, as this provides cover from the elements and makes the shelter less obvious. In more developed areas, locate the shelter behind buildings or someplace where it will not be disturbed.