Written by: Rachel Holly
Winter can be a harsh season, particularly for feral cats, who often face extreme cold, snow, and a lack of food and care. These cats are accustomed to surviving on their own, but during the coldest months, the dangers they face can increase significantly. Feral cats, unlike stray cats, have usually been on their own all their life and are not socialized. They will shun close human interaction so caring for them can be a challenge. But for those who care about these often-forgotten animals, it’s important to take steps to help them weather the winter months safely. Whether you’re an experienced cat caretaker or a newcomer to the world of feral cat care, there are several things you can do to ensure these cats are safe and well-supported throughout the cold season.
1. Provide Shelter from the Cold
Feral cats, unlike indoor pets, don’t have the luxury of a warm, cozy bed during the winter. While their coats provide some extra warm, it is not enough to keep them warm in the bitter cold. Exposure to freezing temperatures, especially when combined with snow and rain, can lead to frostbite, hypothermia, or even death. Offering a safe, dry, and insulated shelter is one of the most important steps you can take to help these little guys.
When building a shelter, consider the following:
- Size: The shelter should be just large enough for the cat to move around but small enough to retain body heat. A space that is too large will allow the cat’s body heat to escape, rendering the shelter ineffective. It also shouldn’t be big enough for other wildlife, such as raccoons and foxes to easily enter.
- Material: Use waterproof materials, such as plastic or heavy-duty rubber, to create the shelter. Keeping dry is critical for cats in the frigid temperatures. Straw, not hay, should be used for bedding because it is a natural insulator that resists moisture. Avoid using blankets, towels, or other fabrics, as they can get wet and freeze, which could lead to hypothermia. Microwaveable heating packs that stay warm for hours are available- just make use that are not too hot where that can burn.
- Location: Place the shelter in a quiet, secluded area away from foot traffic and predators. Near a wall or fence can provide extra protection from wind. Try to ensure that the shelter is elevated slightly to keep it dry from snow or water.
There are many DIY designs online for building a simple, effective shelter. If you’re not handy, you can also buy ready-made shelters from pet stores or online retailers, but make sure they are appropriately insulated for winter conditions.
2. Provide Food
Feral cats are usually scavengers, but food is not always easy to find in winter. Their natural hunting grounds can be scarce, and the food they do find is likely not nutritious or sufficient. Offering a regular food supply can help maintain their energy and health during the cold months.
- Types of food: Wet food is preferable for feral cats in winter because it provides extra moisture, which can help keep them hydrated. Canned food is easier for them to eat and digest in the cold than dry kibble. However, if dry food is all you can provide, make sure to supplement it with water or wet food when possible.
- Feeding schedule: Feral cats are creatures of habit, and feeding them at the same time each day can help create a predictable routine. Ensure that food is accessible but try to leave it out when the cat is likely to visit and not all day,so as not to attract pests or predators.
- Food safety: Be mindful of where you place the food. If it is too close to a busy street or a predator’s den, it may put the cat in danger. Also, remove uneaten food- it can attract all kinds of wildlife you might not want visiting your yard. Avoid feeding feral cats cooked bones, chocolate, onions, garlic, or other human foods that are toxic to cats.
3. Ensure Access to Fresh Water
In the winter, finding clean water can be a challenge for feral cats. Frozen water sources are common in cold climates, and dehydration can be just as dangerous as hunger. You can help by providing fresh water regularly and ensuring it doesn’t freeze.
- Use heated water bowls: These are widely available and designed to prevent water from freezing, ensuring that feral cats always have access to liquid. If a heated bowl is not an option, check the water at least once a day to break the ice and replace it with fresh water.
- Avoid metal bowls: Metal bowls can become too cold for the cats to use. Opt for plastic or ceramic bowls to provide water in a more comfortable container.
4. Consider Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR)
If you are caring for a feral cat colony, the winter months can be especially tough on young kittens. In the absence of spaying and neutering, the population of feral cats continues to grow, and more cats mean more competition for food and shelter.
Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) is a humane method for managing feral cat populations. TNR involves trapping feral cats, taking them to a vet for spaying or neutering, and then returning them to their original location. This prevents further reproduction, helps control the feral cat population, and improves the health of the cats in the colony.
While TNR is most effective in warmer months, if you are feeding a colony of feral cats, consider working with local animal shelters or organizations that offer TNR programs. They may provide assistance with trapping and transportation, or you may be able to work with them to find a more appropriate time for the procedure.
5. Monitor Their Health
Winter can exacerbate existing health issues for feral cats, especially when their immune systems are weakened by cold and hunger. Observe the cats from a distance for signs of illness or injury, such as limping, coughing, or visible wounds. If you can safely and humanely trap a cat for veterinary care, consider doing so.
If you’re unsure how to handle a feral cat in need of medical attention, seek advice from a local veterinarian or animal rescue organization. Some shelters may offer assistance in getting the cat the care it needs.
6. Play It Cool
Some feral cats can be slowly brought around to trusting humans, even to the point of becoming an indoor pet. Others cannot; they have been on their own for too long. When you first begin making efforts to care for these felines, they may resist your overtures. Keep a low profile- don’t hang around as they eat or try to pet them. Let them begin to trust the environment you’ve created for them first. Then you may find they will warm up to you as well, in their own good time.
Conclusion
Taking care of feral cats in winter requires commitment, compassion, and understanding of their needs. By providing shelter, food, water, and regular health monitoring, you can help ensure these cats survive the harsh winter months and remain safe until warmer weather arrives. Your efforts, no matter how small, make a significant difference in the lives of these resilient animals.
