Monday, October 10, 2011

Heating an Outdoor Cat Enclosure in the Winter

It's that time again.  If you have any outdoor cats that you care for, then you will be thinking about how to care for the in the cold winter months.  Because I have Smokey, I search the internet repeatedly to find more ideas on how to take care of her.  We don't get snow, but we have a lot of rain, and it gets pretty cold.  Actually both have all ready started.

Smokey stopped using her outdoor shelter when other outdoor cats came to check it out.  They may have even gone inside.  I'm not sure.  So my plan is to clean the enclosure and the blankets and try to insulate it again.

While searching the internet, I found this great idea for heating  the inside of your enclosure.  It is from a website called "Instructables."


This web article suggests attaching rope lighting to the top of their enclosures. The lights are kept on day and night through the cold weather to keep the enclosure warm. I also like this idea of using a ice chest for the enclosure. It is a good size and is all ready insulated.


There are some great minds out there with many different ideas on taking care of strays. If I find any more good ideas, I will definitely share them here.

And now, onto Smokey's shelter.

10 comments:

Katnip Lounge said...

Looks like a winner to me...and Smokey, too.

Deb said...

Learning new things about cats and cat care is one of my biggest loves. Thank you for this. Hugs, Deb

Teri and her Stylish Adventure Cats said...

What a cool idea! I had thought of doing the ice chest thing, as neither feral I feed used the pretty nice shelter I made from large plastic storage containers (found the instructions online too on how to make an insulated one. I just ordered a small igloo and have a heat pad (I use these kind inside for my heat seeking Rex and Sphynx cats http://cozywinters.com/shop/kh-1060.html). I hope TomTom uses it, but as you say, all it takes is some threat when they are inside and they don't use them any more...

Cat said...

Wow, the ice chest with a couple of in and out doors is a great idea!!! I hope Smokey takes to it again :-)

Mr Puddy said...

Tee Heh..I like the way your mommy put the fancy light for you..Look fantastic ! and I hope you are warm in there : )
xox

Memories of Eric and Flynn said...

That looks like a good idea.

Angel, Kirby and Max said...

We have a dog house but the cats did not use it. May be if I put lights in it they would.

Unknown said...

You should use straw as the bedding. Rugs or blankets will absorb moisture from the wet cat, or directly from the air. Straw dries out quickly, and keeps the catwarmer.

Unknown said...

What size cooler did you use? I'd love to do this for the outdoor cat I care for, but want to make sure I get a large enough size.

moeez said...

This is such a great resource that you are providing and you give it away for free. I love seeing blog that understand the value of providing a quality resource for free.


best outdoor cat houses