Shawano County Humane Society
Shawano County Humane Society
Outdoor cats face harsh conditions in cold weather.
With the right shelter, feeding habits, and safety precautions, you can keep community cats healthy, warm, and protected all winter long. Below you’ll find simple, effective steps based on trusted cat-care organizations.
Provide Safe Winter Shelter
Creating a warm, insulated space is the most important thing you can do for outdoor cats in freezing temperatures.
Use a small, insulated shelter, such as a Styrofoam cooler or plastic tote with foam lining, and cut a single 5–6" entrance that faces away from the wind. Raise it off the ground and fill it with straw only (never blankets, towels, or hay).
Cats need extra calories to maintain body heat. Feed consistently every day and prioritize dry food, which holds up better in freezing temps. Only offer wet food when you can check it before it freezes. Use deep plastic bowls for water and refresh often. Keep feeding stations separate from sleeping shelters.
Cold weather creates hazards you might not expect. Tap on your car hood before starting, cats may be sheltering inside. Avoid toxic ice melts and antifreeze, and keep feeding areas tidy to reduce neighborhood conflicts. Seek veterinary help right away if a cat shows signs of frostbite or illness.