DIY winter shelter one way to help feral cats in your community, says SPCA

The SPCA says feral cats are a unique part of many communities across B.C., and they require specific support in order to live healthy lives.

That old tomcat you may hear or see prowling around could need a helping paw, errr hand, this winter.

And with temperatures about to drop over the next few days, the BC SPCA released timely information this week on how to help feral cats stay warm.

“There are many feral cats in B.C. communities that have been born and raised in the wild and have never been socialized to live indoors,” said the SPCA.

“Whenever possible, we look to trap, spay/neuter and re-home community cats and recommend that pet cats be kept indoors for their own health and safety.

“Stray and community cats, however, feel at home outside and would not do well in a shelter or home environment. They require specialized support, as they face many hazards outdoors.”

One of those hazards is finding a warm place to shelter, with the SPCA noting a cat’s ears and toes can easily get frostbitten.

Building a shelter out of a large storage container, a styrofoam cooler or sheets and straw is one way to help them.

One website, Neighbourhoodcats.org, says DIY winter shelters share three important aspects: they’re well insulated, have minimal air space and are waterproof.