Colony Care

 Winter

SHELTERS Insulated shelters help protect feral and stray cats from the cold and other harsh weather conditions. You can make a shelter from a cooler or rubber maid bin or purchase one already made. 

Insulation is crucial for cat shelters. Line the inside walls, floor, and roof with rigid foam board or fill the shelter with straw  (NOT HAY! Hay retains moisture, has an increased risk for mold and mildew, attracts pests, and degrades quickly.). Clothing/towels/blankets are NOT to be used because they retain moisture and can cause a cat to freeze. 

Place shelters in a familiar place to the cats. Placing shelters near the feeding area helps reduce the distance cats need to travel for food during inclement weather. Place shelters away from heavy traffic areas. 

FOOD and WATER During winter, cats living outdoors require extra calories to generate body heat and stay warm. Feed cats on a regular schedule. This will decrease the amount of time cats spend in cold weather. And NEVER use metal bowls in the winter because a cat's tongue can freeze to the surface. 

To prevent water and wet food freezing 

• Cut a hole in a styrofoam block and sink the food bowl inside.

• warm the food beforehand by placing the can of  food in a bowl of hot water 5-10 minutes before feeding and serve water warm.

• Place food and water in a sunny area. 

SNOW If a winter storm is in the forecast, be sure to supply cats with extra food and water to last for more than a day. After the storm has passed, shovel snow away from cat shelters and feeding stations. 

Summer

HEATCats living outdoors can face significant challenges in the summer heat. 

Pests are a common nuisance when taking care of cat colonies during the summer time. Below are some strategies to help deter pests.

• Place food bowls on a tray filled with water to make a moat crawling insects can't pass 

• Build a feeding station elevated off the ground

• Sprinkle diatomaceous earth or baking soda around food bowls. Ensure the diatomaceous earth is food-grade and without any added chemicals.

Here's an easy way to build a feeding station that will protect food from the elements.