How to Make a Feral Cat Shelter

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  • čas přidán 5. 01. 2014
  • Help feral cats stay warm this winter! The shelter I built is one of the cheapest and easiest ways to help (You can also add a plastic/vinyl flap over the opening once a cat as begun to use the shelter to protect them even more from the elements)
    If you're looking to make more substantial shelters, there are many different options to be found here: www.alleycat.org/ShelterGallery
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Komentáře • 703

  • @marvelousmangas
    @marvelousmangas Před 10 lety +225

    If only I had seen this last April... A feral cat lived in my back yard and got pregnant, so we took a cooler and put a towel in it and when she was ready to have the kittens. She came into the house plopped herself down and had three beautiful kittens. Which all four cats now live in side and are all fixed and very affectionate :)

    • @evelyncampbell764
      @evelyncampbell764 Před 3 lety +9

      Love that 😻 I rescued three from my yard / best decision ever

    • @ObsidianCrocodile
      @ObsidianCrocodile Před 2 lety +5

      Beautiful 😻 I’m so happy for all of you!

    • @gailgalbraith5307
      @gailgalbraith5307 Před 2 lety +7

      God bless u

    • @jensutra411
      @jensutra411 Před 2 lety +6

      God bless beautiful souls. Hope the cats are still living healthy after 7 years🥰

    • @craigr.h.laurent240
      @craigr.h.laurent240 Před rokem +3

      Yes, our first feral mom had three kittens that we decided to keep inside. All were later seen by a vet.

  • @himmielvr
    @himmielvr Před 9 lety +383

    I have three feral cats who, due to severe health reasons, I chose to trap & bring home. These cats were fully feral in every sense of the word. After much love & even more patience, all three sleep on my bed each night. So for all the nasty nay-sayers stating ferals are a waste of life you have no idea what you are talking about. They are just society's rejects and deserve a small amount of help - shelter when it is freezing, food as part of a TNR program. I won't be back here to read all the nasty comments I'm sure to get.

    • @JJovana
      @JJovana Před 9 lety +36

      I adopted two ferals in the course of a year. first I trapped them, fixed them and vaccinated them. All it takes is a little patience. People making disgusting comments on this site really scare me.

    • @Trund27
      @Trund27 Před 9 lety +23

      Jovana J I bet your kitties love you very much. Bless you for rescuing them. I agree - what the heck is wrong with people?

    • @bintuae1
      @bintuae1 Před 9 lety +18

      I couldn't agree more. There are 4 feral cats in my house staying outdoors. Everyone of my family refuses to keep them in except me and my sister. It made my heart break when 3 kittens died of infections and my family didnt agree to bringing them to the vet saying they're after all unclean street cats. :'(

    • @Trund27
      @Trund27 Před 9 lety +17

      bintuae1 That's so sad. You are a wonderful person to want to help the cats.

    • @FoxtrS2
      @FoxtrS2 Před 9 lety +8

      AGREEE !!! I HAVE TWO

  • @l.b.2592
    @l.b.2592 Před 2 lety +40

    I making this for a sweet stray cat Ive been feeding

  • @annel.9438
    @annel.9438 Před 4 lety +58

    I always recommend people put the entrance hole off to one side. That way the cat has a larger corner area that is totally blocked from the wind. I use two pieces of a clear heavy duty plastic which I cut in much wider slats that overlap and really keep out the wind and weather.

    • @dckallie
      @dckallie Před rokem +5

      That was my question. If there were any recs for the wind. My mom currently has the sweetest not quite one year old kitty outside and we are trying to figure out if it’s someone’s lost cat, while also keeping the indoor cat safe.

    • @craigr.h.laurent240
      @craigr.h.laurent240 Před rokem +5

      @@dckallie Trap that outdoor cat so that it can be neutered or spayed, checked by a vet, and given shots and any medication that it may need. If the cat is a female who is spayed, please keep her protected. A safe and quiet time for her should be at least 48 hours. Remember, her surgery is MAJOR surgery.

    • @dckallie
      @dckallie Před rokem +11

      @@craigr.h.laurent240 thanks. I was actually successful in catching the cat last night. After 10 days of multiple neighbors trying, I had gained enough trust where it walked right into my house. A miracle. It then 100% freaked out. But I had food, water, litter and a comfy place to lay already prepared for it. The next conundrum is that now that I’ve been able to check the cat out more / I believe it’s pregnant. Not to sham the cat, but it’s been living outside and we all think was dumped by an owner - the time frame we’re not sure of. But the cat is rotund. I have a cat already and this new cat is a giant in comparison (they are isolated). We will take the cat to the vet possibly tomorrow or Friday and get ready for what may come.

    • @LauraMaybe
      @LauraMaybe Před 7 měsíci +1

      Good idea

    • @susanb4213
      @susanb4213 Před 6 měsíci

      @@craigr.h.laurent240 I "have" a feral cat that has a clipped ear, so he has been caught/treated/released already. Last year I tried to make a shelter for him using an old cat carrier, but he wouldn't go into it. I've seen these videos since then that have these small holes cut into them and straw on the inside. This feral cat hisses at me every day in spite of getting fed by me every evening, so no way to pick him up and introduce him to the shelter. Is this a hopeless cause? It's going to be in the teens in just a couple of days here and I'm worried about him.

  • @Pantheragatos
    @Pantheragatos Před 10 lety +118

    That's cool. We have neighbors that insist on leaving their little cat outside all of the time. I could make this house for her, she would at least be able to stay warm and be out of the rain.

    • @kelpero3721
      @kelpero3721 Před 4 lety +18

      Honestly, I'd be tempted to trap the thing and bring it to the Humane Society. People who treat their pets like that deserve to lose them.

    • @jewstine1
      @jewstine1 Před 3 lety +9

      @@kelpero3721 sadly. The humane society usually puts down healthy animals to not waste time and funds to rehome them.

    • @janicecruze9604
      @janicecruze9604 Před 2 lety +4

      Those people make me mad!!

    • @barbmanley3114
      @barbmanley3114 Před 2 lety +4

      @@jewstine1 yes, I found out that the humane shelters at least some of them are not usually humane unfortunately.. that's why I don't like to bring any cats there because you don't know.. some of them are good but I've heard too many pros and cons about the same shelter in I just don't know what to think it's hard it's hard to trust them

    • @barbmanley3114
      @barbmanley3114 Před 2 lety +8

      those people don't act like they really love their kitty cat and really they don't deserve to have their little boy or little girl kitty cat or any other animals if that's the way they're going to treat them.. Maybe you could build a little house for them for him for her and then and just keep an eye out for her or him and give her love and attention because maybe she's not getting enough food either... I'm glad and grateful that you're going to help her or him may God bless you and everything you do and the little kitty cat may God keep kitty cat safe and sound and warm and fed and healthy (((INnnnJESUS HOLY MIGHTY NAME, I PRAY, AMEN!!!)

  • @ellaobrien2331
    @ellaobrien2331 Před 9 lety +71

    Im glad to know theres people out there who actually care for these beautiful wild creatures! :)

    • @marthaindiana
      @marthaindiana Před 2 lety +2

      Except cats aren’t really wild

    • @SneakyTrain
      @SneakyTrain Před 7 měsíci

      Cats are the number 1 invaisive species on this planet

  • @LifeofaHitchhiker
    @LifeofaHitchhiker Před 9 lety +36

    These are so easy to make I made five of them for the local stray population in my neighborhood. I put them in an unused pigeon cage on my back porch with the door left open to give them added shelter and also insulated and closed off all the openings in the cage except the door. So far we've see as many as five of the local strays using the shelters and I'm very happy with this.

  • @davidgolden144
    @davidgolden144 Před 6 lety +33

    My wife and I use our home as a feral cat shelter. We’ve adopted two who lived long happy lives with us. Very unusual at times, but lovely.

  • @boe1956
    @boe1956 Před 6 lety +309

    Just telling everyone, don't be tempted to use blankets in the box or any material..it won't keep the cats warm at all, but just holds the dampness of the cold in. Straw is best by far...make sure it's straw not hay.

    • @BestArtist
      @BestArtist Před 5 lety +6

      You can use wool blankets, it retains heat even when wet.

    •  Před 5 lety +6

      @MrGeorge3x apparently is has a higher moisture content than straw.

    • @joes0406
      @joes0406 Před 4 lety +2

      I'm going to have to find somewhere to get hay in the city...

    • @Moots787
      @Moots787 Před 4 lety +3

      @@joes0406 I came across the same problem. (Also from a city) All the other things were easy to find at any dollar store. Yet straw? It's tough to find. I even thought about using the straw from brooms, but they are too thin. I'd probably need to go to a pet store, or home depot for it. Another option one could try is wool, like the commenters above stated. Yet that's pretty pricey :/

    • @puffymama51
      @puffymama51 Před 4 lety +11

      @@Moots787 straw is usually available around Halloween at craft, hardware or grocery stores.

  • @mikecaldwell8417
    @mikecaldwell8417 Před 6 lety +14

    I made this exact shelter for 2 feral cats that my mom has been feeding for years. They use it during the winter and rainy nights. They seem to love having a place to
    be out of the wind and rain /snow

  • @SakuraandSesshomaru
    @SakuraandSesshomaru Před 3 měsíci +1

    Really more people should do this. Making shelters and sitting them around in the woods for feral and stray cats is a good idea, so they don't freeze in the winter.

  • @DeeannaMariee
    @DeeannaMariee Před 8 lety +135

    I'm so happy that I came across this video. There has been a pretty little orange cat that comes into my yard every night. I feed him but I cant take take him in. Id like to make a little home for him in my backyard and this is perfect. Thank you so much!

    • @DingoDIDeatmybaby
      @DingoDIDeatmybaby Před 7 lety +10

      Make sure to put 2 holes instead of one as an escape hole.

    • @Crispysauce124
      @Crispysauce124 Před 6 lety +1

      Me two i have a cat that does that I don't know who its from but it looks like the ginger cat in the vid and it goes inside but it can't go in any rooms and it goes to the garden sometimes and it likes me alot and I want it so badly

    • @IsabelleAzadmanesh
      @IsabelleAzadmanesh Před 5 lety +1

      you mean, purrrrrfect!

    • @deredd
      @deredd Před 4 lety +2

      Wow.. it's as if I wrote this comment: Not only do we have the same name, but I also have the prettiest orange cat that hangs around my yard. I feed him every night as well but he can't come inside because of my other cat. I named my ginger Orange Oliver (one of my favorite childhood books about an orange rabbit with glasses). But I call him Ollie or Ollie Baba 🤙🏽🤙🏽

    • @jerrymuzak4534
      @jerrymuzak4534 Před 4 lety +1

      You're fucking gorgeous :)

  • @lpgfamily5
    @lpgfamily5 Před 2 lety +7

    I just moved to a large property that came with a couple TNR cats. They live in some bushes next to my house. It’s going to rain heavily and likely snow this week so I’m gonna get to this right away. Little cuties! The youngest of them has even been caught sitting on the outside of my window looking in at our cats. Determined to befriend us I guess!

  • @rogerfoucault4729
    @rogerfoucault4729 Před 7 lety +33

    Love the idea of a Styrofoam cooler insert. Besides the bedding, I'd also add more straw between the inside cooler and outside cooler for additional insulation quality. For the entry, I'd also include a protruding PVC pipe with door flap for additional protection against the elements.

    • @HeadersbetterSLOTS
      @HeadersbetterSLOTS Před 6 měsíci +1

      I couldn't find any so I used styrofoam pool noodles. Lol. I had bought like 20 of them on clearance at Walmart for .25 each fir a different project. Just had to cut a few and they worked puuurfect ❤

  • @kyriljordanov2086
    @kyriljordanov2086 Před 6 lety +10

    Thanks so much for this video and instruction. I moved into this house 8 months ago and a couple of months later started noticing these cats crossing my backyard, a big mama cat and 2 kittens. Neighbors tell me they are strays so I started working on them. By now one sleeps inside on my son's bed, the other comes inside to eat and hang out for a bit, but wont stay for long. The mama, however, I can't get within 5 feet of her (used to be 20 feet). It's bad enough that winter in CO is coming but what is worse is that I think she's pregnant. I want so badly to get a place made for her soon. Tomorrow I plan on buying the totes and coolers, etc and see if this will work. Maybe if I put her food bowl inside she will enter and see how warm and safe it is and will want to stay. Well, I'm praying for now. Thanks so much for showing how to make this.

  • @phoenixx1025
    @phoenixx1025 Před 9 lety +10

    This is such a great solution. I've done TNR and am working on a playground/shelter area in my backyard. Doing this because I'm moving and the people in this area won't help them. It's frustrating but doing what I can to help these kitties.
    The feral population can be controlled if everyone works together. There are many organizations that can help, or provide guidance and information if they are out of funds to cover the costs of TNR. Look into your area resources, but Alley Cat Allies is national and can help point you in the right direction. Yes, you may have to pay for surgeries and supplies, but there are low-cost options for everything. You just have to take the time to look into what's available in your area. And there are always more people out there willing to help than those that just want to kill the cats.
    Please have compassion for these creatures. They are almost always the results of people who were irresponsible and abandoned their cats without spaying/neutering them. They're just doing what cats do. It's the humans who need to be educated and/or controlled. ;).
    To Cole and Marmalade's humans, you are amazing! Thank you for the educational aspects of your videos to show just how great cats are and how much they need us.
    =^..^=

  • @yottoo.5037
    @yottoo.5037 Před 8 lety +27

    Hi, this is a wonderful thing you do for feral cats and you are to be commended for your compassionate heart. However, I just wanted to point out that it's best to put an opening on both sides. That way, if a predator or hostile cat enters into the box when they're inside, they'll have a way to escape by running out the other side. If there is only one opening at the front, they could be cornered with no way out. Just my 2 cents. Other than that, keep up the great work. :-)

    • @LauraMaybe
      @LauraMaybe Před 7 měsíci

      hmm, I didn't think about that. That is a good idea!

  • @LizKS48
    @LizKS48 Před 9 lety +21

    I so wish I would have known about these shelters last winter. :( It would have saved a kitty's life. Makes me heart sick to know we could have done this for him. I just wish I would have known. Thank you for putting this video up! If it saves one cat's life it was worth it.

  • @thespokenword8540
    @thespokenword8540 Před 6 lety +9

    Thanks for the tutorial! We're experiencing arctic conditions at the moment and have a feral cat in the neighbourhood. I put out a little plastic container on its side and a cushion inside it for tonight. Tomorrow I'm going to make the one you showed in the video. Hopefully the little cat will pull through.

  • @diane9247
    @diane9247 Před 8 lety +10

    This looks great - and inexpensive! Every year a stray or feral comes around for awhile and I'd love to have a winter shelter.

  • @4my.b4iley
    @4my.b4iley Před 8 lety +104

    Seriously, how can people dislike this?

    • @theonechannel3667
      @theonechannel3667 Před 7 lety +7

      William de Montefort If they hate cats what we're they doing on a video that involves cats?

    • @ClaudiaSketches
      @ClaudiaSketches Před 7 lety +10

      Amy Bailey Unfortunately there's a lot of people who think that helping strays and ferals increases their survival chances and increases the feral population. What these uneducated people fail to realise is that cat advocates are helping to reduce the population over time through TNR :)

    • @susanpolanski4528
      @susanpolanski4528 Před 7 lety +1

      What is TNR please?

    • @susanpolanski4528
      @susanpolanski4528 Před 7 lety +6

      JUst saw the post below! Trap, neuter, release!

    • @clearwave9453
      @clearwave9453 Před 6 lety +3

      Claudia Sketches TNR does not reduce the feral cat population and no the people who disliked aren't cat haters please educate your self before commenting

  • @introspect418
    @introspect418 Před 7 lety +105

    Nice! I would probably take a lighter to the plastic to soften the sharp edges :)

    • @GenevieveThornton
      @GenevieveThornton Před 7 lety +12

      Samantha Marie that's actually a good idea!

    • @Sandwichscoot
      @Sandwichscoot Před 5 lety +3

      Yup, so the cats don't cut themselves or anything when going in 👍🏾

    • @mermaidmama916
      @mermaidmama916 Před 5 lety +26

      Samantha Marie we put duct tape all around the edges so they aren’t sharp for the kitties. 🐾❤️

    • @debrabradish3027
      @debrabradish3027 Před 4 lety +5

      Just a thought.....Leaving the rough edges might help w/hair removal. Feral grooming salon😸

    • @nope.thankies
      @nope.thankies Před 4 lety +5

      or a cut pool noodle

  • @EmmaCraig
    @EmmaCraig Před 6 lety +11

    Definitely going to try it. And love how your cats are "helping" you! ;)

  • @suej9329
    @suej9329 Před 6 lety +11

    Keep up the good work about spreading the news how to help feral cats, I hope more people are inspired to follow your example and help these poor cats. Community programmes to care for stray and feral cats, hopefully could be taken up by other countries too. Thank you for all you do in educating people how to care for cats properly; I love cats and the abuse, neglect and misunderstanding of these beautiful, amazing animals can be heartbreaking. 💕😿😺😻🐈💕🙏🏻

  • @AnnBearForFreedom
    @AnnBearForFreedom Před 8 lety +54

    I found an older Igloo picnic cooler works just as well as the tote and the Styrofoam. Instead of straw/hay, was able to find a smaller cat bed at Goodwill that fit inside the Igloo cooler perfectly. The inside of the cooler and even the bed are washable, so everything can get a seasonal washing. I haven't added the door flap yet....Pierra, the feral I built the shelter for, is still learning to trust it and me, but we're making very slow progress. He now lets me watch him eat, which I think is a very good sign!

    • @AnnBearForFreedom
      @AnnBearForFreedom Před 8 lety +2

      Cole and Marmalade Hi Cole, I'd know your style anywhere! Did I tell you we added an all black kitten to our family, and named him Coal in your honor? Youre an uncle, Cole!

    • @nancymoore7341
      @nancymoore7341 Před 8 lety +15

      +AnnBearForFreedom Cat bed is not Good... it retains moisture from the cold... Use only STRAW as the air circulates etc.

    • @AnnBearForFreedom
      @AnnBearForFreedom Před 8 lety +3

      +N Moore Hadn't considered that. Thanks for the point.

    • @nancymoore7341
      @nancymoore7341 Před 8 lety +1

      +AnnBearForFreedom You are most welcomed...

    • @triciaaw4539
      @triciaaw4539 Před 8 lety +1

      Just wondering how you're coming along with Pierra.
      You're a wonderful human

  • @KetchupKitty
    @KetchupKitty Před rokem +3

    Nice! I made mine on the side, and added a wall wind barrier with a walking in hole too. Straw all around, works great!

  • @sidgupta2006
    @sidgupta2006 Před 9 lety +7

    You have a big heart man. Cole and marmalade are lucky to own you.

  • @HFDay-qi6yc
    @HFDay-qi6yc Před 10 lety +6

    Thank you for sharing this video. I have a feral cat now, for seven years. Before she used to come in my house and stay in the garage in winter time. But since my beloved dog passed away 6 months ago. She won't come in the house no more, since her friend in no longer here I guess she doesn't feel safe. , she doesn't trust the house or us. I get so worry with the cold winter that she will die :(.
    BUT with this unexpensive idea. Im sure She will survive in the cold winter and stay warm. .

  • @crystalbreland561
    @crystalbreland561 Před 6 lety +6

    Cut Two hose front and back, so if in dangered they have a way out, an you can add plastic flaps on the doors for more safety.

  • @Furballfables
    @Furballfables Před 10 lety +15

    We think that's great! We might add some cozy blankets to sleep on or under, as an alternative to straw. Thank you so much for sharing these resources! Bless all the wonderful souls who help feral cats!

    • @jkimmerly7373
      @jkimmerly7373 Před 10 lety +4

      Blankets are not good for kitties as they can get lung problems. The straw is all they need.

    • @feraladventures5202
      @feraladventures5202 Před 9 lety +5

      Cloth and hay can hold moisture, freeze, and get moldy quickly. Straw does not absorb moisture and is a fantastic insulator. The straw is probably the most important item in this shelter. You can stuff straw in a cardboard box and they'll use it during sub freezing temps over a blanket.

    • @Ledprostate
      @Ledprostate Před 5 lety +2

      Never use blankets, as you should know after researching how to make a shelter. Straw only. Blankets get wet easily and draw heat away from the cat, making it cold. Straw is hollow and traps the heat. If it gets wet, which it shouldn't if the shelter is made properly, straw will dry pretty quickly.

    • @char5274
      @char5274 Před 4 lety +1

      What about making one in a tropical country, would it be wise to use a cushion instead of straw?

    • @Hootowls5
      @Hootowls5 Před 4 lety

      @@Ledprostate, There's a mylar blanket that is self heating, they are especially good for areas that have cold winters.

  • @Largetalons
    @Largetalons Před 2 lety +3

    I'm gonna make one but I'll raise it off the ground and give two openings. I think the second opening could have a strip of tarp or flap so it's more of an emergency exit.
    People are concerned about straw and styrofoam, but I think ferals face worse. It's more important to give them an option to stay warm and dry imo.

    • @jessnmustangjeffsmith6163
      @jessnmustangjeffsmith6163 Před rokem

      Brilliant! Love the idea about a thick flap for the emergency exit. Keeping out the elements is vital. Thank you for the suggestion!

  • @catartisttheflamer4784
    @catartisttheflamer4784 Před 8 lety +10

    I have a decent number of feral cats in my yard. The most famous feral cat we have is called Enzo. Enzo is a black and white cat with a torn ear. A couple days ago before we discovered Enzo, we saw a buff brown cat. Yesterday, my mom found a skinny black cat passing by! I think it's a good idea to make feral cat shelters, thanks for the advice!

    • @catartisttheflamer4784
      @catartisttheflamer4784 Před 8 lety +1

      +free4allcatloverAJ
      Maybe feed them too.

    • @iz6082
      @iz6082 Před 8 lety

      I'd call him Enzo Amoré (if u get it ur my Best Friend rn) (WWE) (I dun even know if I spelt it correctly lmao)

    • @tracywaters9201
      @tracywaters9201 Před 6 lety +1

      Are you sure Enzo's ear isn't tipped and not torn? He may have been trapped, neutered and released (TNR). One ear gets tipped to indicate feral, but fixed.

  • @alisonw7802
    @alisonw7802 Před 2 lety +3

    I think straw on top of and along the outside of the cooler would provide a lot more insulation. I live in Minnesota where it can get to -10 to -30 degrees in the winter.

  • @jakewyler1945
    @jakewyler1945 Před 3 lety +9

    Just so everyone knows, you CAN use cloth bedding IF it is 100% MICROFIBER towels. They resist moisture extremely well, so much so that they can be dunked under water and won’t soak up anything unless squeezed repeatedly while totally submerged. Otherwise, they will remain dry. So I recommend placing a bedding of straw in the shelter first and cover the top with 2 microfiber towels.

  • @v8pilot
    @v8pilot Před rokem +2

    Thank you for this. I want to make something like this for a cat that is not allowed in my house. I think that a catflap would keep the cold wind out.

  • @LoboyFoamCoolers
    @LoboyFoamCoolers Před 9 lety +4

    Fantastic job - way to look out for the kitties!

  • @kreszentiabichlmaier7902
    @kreszentiabichlmaier7902 Před 10 lety +4

    Glad to see Marmalade was on hand in an advisory capacity, as well as serving as serving as Quality Control personnel. Excellent video, thanks for uploading!

  • @cindyjacobs6713
    @cindyjacobs6713 Před 2 lety +1

    amazing idea ... I was just on Amazon looking for cheap cat boxes but they were all a bit expensive ,,,,so this is a brilliant idea as now everyone is getting back to their lives after Covid all the kittens they brought in lock down are now being thrown out as not as cute when they are grown ....

  • @leekeishasmith7845
    @leekeishasmith7845 Před 4 lety +5

    this is awesome!! thank you! I will do this for the winter! :)

  • @iz6082
    @iz6082 Před 8 lety +1

    I've seen a bunch of these and I feel like this is the easiest and yet as efficient if not more efficient than the rest. It's also very simple

  • @parkjihoon394
    @parkjihoon394 Před 6 lety +1

    I actually made a shelter for a female stray a few winters ago based on an emergency shelter for a human design I saw in a survival video hosted by a retired US Army Special Forces soldier. It was like 2thixk garbage bags with newspaper and leaves layered in between as insulation, a cardboard box inside the inner bag, and the whole thing securely taped around the box to make it waterproof, and I cut a hole in it and stuffed it with some towels. I eventually took her in, she gave birth, I kept one of the litter and we rehoused mommy and the two brother kittens :)

  • @celinne700
    @celinne700 Před 10 lety +8

    What a great idea! I will always keep this method in mind.

  • @chartimberwolve6586
    @chartimberwolve6586 Před 8 lety +4

    great idea! one of my kitties loves to be outdoors even during the cold weather and I worry about her at night. We will be making one of these for her for this year. thank you!

  • @GeorgiaAndrea
    @GeorgiaAndrea Před 10 lety +6

    Bless your heart!

  • @danegoodwin3057
    @danegoodwin3057 Před rokem +3

    Great idea. Probably wise to put a second entrance/exit so they can escape if a predator comes

  • @geraldinegrant1120
    @geraldinegrant1120 Před 4 lety +1

    Thank you. Easy and cheap to construct. Now the cats living under my trailer, will have a warm and cozy place to escape the wind and the rain.

  • @jacquelinerivera6065
    @jacquelinerivera6065 Před 5 lety +3

    Very simple and affordable! Thank you so very much!

  • @teceyS3
    @teceyS3 Před 8 lety +1

    thank you so much- i have over 30 feral cats that i feed, due to people abandoning them out where i live (15 miles out of town and in the foothills), and i needed a better way to help keep them warm during the winter- the best friends society has spayed and neutered them for me for free (thank God), since i can't afford to, with all the cat food i have to buy each month!

  • @kimaranda5999
    @kimaranda5999 Před 4 lety +1

    Awesome idea. I have seen people use the tote and straw just not the cooler and that's one of the best parts.

  • @SAMMIsLIFE
    @SAMMIsLIFE Před 10 lety +4

    Aww! So cute,i made one like this a while ago for a feral cat that had get babies under our porch but i didn't think about adding the foam cooler, it'll help keep the warm insulated inside! :)

  • @BiteyButtoncat
    @BiteyButtoncat Před 10 lety +7

    That is pawsome!

  • @dorothyfee4340
    @dorothyfee4340 Před 6 lety +2

    Thanks for this video. I care for 3 feral cats Brownie, Patches and Salty. I have made a shelter out of lawn chairs each with a blanket in it for them to sleep with their food and water bowl under the chair and all that is covered by a king size super thick comforter. But they won't all go into the "tent" as I call it at the same time. This will solve my problem so they each have their own space.

    • @easygoing6397
      @easygoing6397 Před 4 lety

      @@coleandmarmalade
      Won't the hay stick them??

  • @emilycrocetto819
    @emilycrocetto819 Před 7 lety +3

    Awesome idea!!!! Hope many will follow these instructions to help protect the cats from the cold and hot weather.

  • @sgdeluxedoc
    @sgdeluxedoc Před 8 lety +5

    I've always ached seeing these poor cats when it's way below zero. This is a wonderful design and I think I'm going to make a few ahead of time.. Thanks!

  • @sunshinegirl1967
    @sunshinegirl1967 Před 8 lety +4

    I think it's great that you go to such trouble to help feral cats. Very kind of you. I have one question about the tote. Shouldn't it have an opening on the opposite side? So the kitty can escape if he needs to?

    • @craigr.h.laurent240
      @craigr.h.laurent240 Před rokem

      Yes, two openings may help, but don't center them so that the cats have a larger area that is more protected.

  • @themadhacker9376
    @themadhacker9376 Před 8 lety +1

    Marmalade seems to be quite the supervisor for this project ;)

  • @craigr.h.laurent240
    @craigr.h.laurent240 Před rokem

    Great video - people need to remember that "straw is for strays." Close to where I live, Cherry Valley Feed and Supply has straw that has been cut so that it is more easily used.

  • @catherineveleker6822
    @catherineveleker6822 Před 8 lety +1

    A great simple shelter presented in a straightforward manner. Thank you!

  • @jayjeter3775
    @jayjeter3775 Před 10 lety +1

    That's so thoughtful of you thanks for caring for the fur babies god bless

  • @rosgembrun
    @rosgembrun Před 5 lety

    Great tip.
    Thank you.
    I feed 4 ferals, all "fixed" and was planning to put out some shelters. These are perfect: inexpensive and easy to put together.

  • @peachtree891
    @peachtree891 Před 2 lety +1

    Thanks,I needed some ideas for the outside cats where I live

  • @michita2006
    @michita2006 Před 10 lety +6

    Wonderful idea, thanks for sharing!!

  • @crudell13
    @crudell13 Před 8 lety +80

    I'm not an expert, but I've heard that it is best to have two openings, so if another animal tries to attack a cat inside, they have a way to escape?

    • @crudell13
      @crudell13 Před 8 lety +6

      It's a great video, anyway!!!

    • @starlingale
      @starlingale Před 6 lety +11

      If you dont wanna make two its suggested to but the entrance facing a wall or to put a makeshift flap on to discourage predators. My feral cat lives on my deck and we just let the shelter door face the wall

    • @vikachuladybug4032
      @vikachuladybug4032 Před 6 lety +4

      How about wind be walking in and out , no guys in my experience that one whole is ok to . I usually make 3-6 shelters so it's enough for every animal in need ( small animal ) . Animals is smarter den people . If they need help each other, they will !

    • @AK-jz3ij
      @AK-jz3ij Před 4 lety +2

      I was gonna say that. Lol I was looking to see if anyone else said it first and yup you did. :) I've heard if a raccoon is inside and there is only 1 way out, it will fight the cat to its death.

    • @Flasherbaby01
      @Flasherbaby01 Před 4 lety +4

      I did have a cat that was attacked by a raccoon while in a house with only one opening. He didn't survive.

  • @brownbagz
    @brownbagz Před 5 lety +1

    Love your quality control!

  • @rachelrogers6795
    @rachelrogers6795 Před 6 lety +1

    Great idea! Thanks for caring, Chris.

  • @tinawoloszyn1443
    @tinawoloszyn1443 Před 9 lety +10

    Wow, it amazes me how a simple video posted in hopes to provide feral cats a warm shelter can create such anger, controversy and argument... Thank you Cole and Marmalade for posting this informative video, I plan on making a few to shelter some feral cats in our community..

  • @sharimoy796
    @sharimoy796 Před 10 lety +1

    Excellent video & well tested I see by your quality control team. Thank you for sharing this. There's such a need.

  • @diaereaper784
    @diaereaper784 Před 9 lety +3

    this is awesome i hope you make more videos showing different ways to make shelters

  • @kathyyoung2406
    @kathyyoung2406 Před 4 lety +2

    It is so easy especially with kitties help!😻

  • @heatherb9115
    @heatherb9115 Před 7 lety +2

    Thank you so much! I made one tonight.

  • @tygrakat
    @tygrakat Před 9 lety +4

    I need to make one for our feral cat, Tabatha. She had a litter this past Sunday!

    • @majorteal
      @majorteal Před 5 lety +4

      Do Tabatha a favor.. Get her fixed.

  • @lorithompson8454
    @lorithompson8454 Před 10 lety +3

    Marmalade was a good helper! Nice shelter!

  • @kla8392
    @kla8392 Před 10 lety +20

    I live in Georgia and there are thousands of Cats and some Dogs that have been abandoned and left to fight for their lives outside! I will ALWAYS feed the Cats that I see! I have food in the trunk of my car for them! I give them water too! Here in Georgia since everyone thinks it is okay to let their animals go there is a huge problem with rabies going on! If we don't feed/help these animals they will be forced to eat either already dead animals with rabies and other diseases or kill animals with rabies and other diseases! I will always give any help I can to these poor innocent animals that have been dumped outside! My Husband and I have rescued and still rescue and so do my Parents, but we can't take every single one of them in because it isn't healthy 1, 2 it is expensive, 3 it isn't legal, 4 it isn't fair to the animals if there are a billion other animals in the house because you can never give them all enough attention! And yes everyone needs to be helping rescue, helping them find homes but even if everyone did, there would still be Cats and Dogs out there today because there is no way to catch them all unfortunately. I can't just see an animal homeless and not help! These shelters are fantastic! Thanks for sharing how to make them! It is like kind of being able to give them a home/safety even if you can't take them in yourself!

    • @clovercat1227
      @clovercat1227 Před 6 lety

      What's illegal, taking in the animals or having too many?

    • @vikachuladybug4032
      @vikachuladybug4032 Před 6 lety

      Thank you for helping this who in need !

    • @blackdahlia4232
      @blackdahlia4232 Před 5 lety +1

      I live here too and absolutely, everyone lets their dogs just run around at the trailer park where I live. Once it gets to freezing tempatures dogs are not even safe outside but that still doesnt stop these people from having their dog chained up with just a little box to protect from rain and cold. Its terrible! But thank you for helping. I feed 2 cats and am fixing to make them this little shelter for when it gets cold. 💖💖💖

    • @clauidameyer8069
      @clauidameyer8069 Před 3 lety

      You're a wonderful caring person! I wish blessings to you and your love ones for what you do.

  • @Flobsicle
    @Flobsicle Před 4 lety +3

    Exactly what i was looking 👀 for ❤️!❤️🐱🛌❤️ ! Thank you so much 🙏

  • @strangeemilylamere5284
    @strangeemilylamere5284 Před 7 lety +1

    Cole and Marmalade I love doing things like this with my cats

  • @chattigre
    @chattigre Před 10 lety +1

    Thanks for sharing this!

  • @dianaleon7093
    @dianaleon7093 Před 10 lety +2

    Aww!!! That is such an awesome idea!!!!! Love it

  • @mimia9218
    @mimia9218 Před 4 lety +1

    Amazing, thank you! I did the tote cut out part and the hay, but hasn’t considered an insulated cooler. 🌹

  • @Rivergull
    @Rivergull Před 8 lety +1

    Best to make a door on each side. Cats like an escape route. A small plastic bucket (without a metal handle) can be pushed into each cut-out hole, to form a bit of a tunnel entrance. Helps protect from wind.

  • @pameladevereux4294
    @pameladevereux4294 Před 8 lety

    Very easy,cozy.

  • @Trund27
    @Trund27 Před 9 lety +1

    SWEET!!!!!!!!!!!!! Awesome video, cute kitties, great idea. Genius!

  • @heatherjasper97
    @heatherjasper97 Před 8 lety +11

    Marm approved.

    • @lSlenderman
      @lSlenderman Před 8 lety +1

      Yap, after the quality control. ^^

  • @sweetcarolyn777
    @sweetcarolyn777 Před 3 lety

    You're an angel.

  • @joeyp9524
    @joeyp9524 Před 7 lety +2

    A mom and her 2 kittens live behind my shed, I feed them twice a day, I'm gonna build shelters for them this weekend too I hope they'll be content back their

  • @Darlene5541
    @Darlene5541 Před 7 lety +1

    Thank you for making this video!!!

  • @JesseUndKane
    @JesseUndKane Před 10 lety +5

    Absolutly Pawesome! :)
    very clever idea easy & cheap to build !
    Marmalade tested it and say it´s good for the strays :)
    well done Chris!

  • @chrispatjones6254
    @chrispatjones6254 Před 9 lety +13

    Every cat/kitten ive had as an adult have come from the alleys..most had never been touched by humans and a coyple had been abused. After trapping and vetting...each and everyone (okay, except for one, but shes slowly coming around) sleeps and cuddles with me. My outdoor guys have i hard in th winter since ppl throw away the shelters i build since they falsely believe some myths about cats. If i were a homeowner i'd much rather have cats than rats in alleys and yards.
    I thobk most ppl that hate cats have never lived closely with one.....cause once you have you are hooked!!! Cats ROCK!..........(all animals do)

    • @clauidameyer8069
      @clauidameyer8069 Před 3 lety +1

      ChrisPat- bless you for being kind to those poor little fur babies.

  • @kan-zee
    @kan-zee Před 3 lety

    That is interesting....with the cooler addition..never thought of that...I am gonna try that out.

  • @hagron5702
    @hagron5702 Před 7 lety

    Such a good guy!

  • @mushigatsby
    @mushigatsby Před 7 lety +1

    Awww it's so nice that homeless gall cats can get a home!!

  • @mynameisnothere9465
    @mynameisnothere9465 Před 4 lety

    Our landlord just made some weird power move and made us rearrange our whole porch which includes no cat beds or blankets in the dead of winter and we have two ferals that need the safe, warm, under-the-bench cat cave. He knows this too. It's ONLY like this in the few coldest months. I usually would understand landlord rules, but I think this guy just hates cats. Who can enjoy taking two cats winter shelter from them? Guess I'm making two of these now. Thank you so much for the video. We have been so worried about this situation, but this is affordable and can be kept out of sight!

  • @bloodydmgkills7326
    @bloodydmgkills7326 Před 9 lety +5

    Wow that is a very good idea !!! Thank you so much for the tips! I am actually going to do something like this! A++ keep up the good ideas !
    😸👍

  • @KittaTakiainen
    @KittaTakiainen Před 8 lety +3

    You are so sweet man !!

  • @cmartinez4910
    @cmartinez4910 Před 7 měsíci

    I took in two ferals. I did the TNR. The two became very sweet and loving the male is blind from one eye the female is still a tad shy but they are amazing.

  • @nancymoore7341
    @nancymoore7341 Před 8 lety

    This by far the BEST shelter from all that I have seen so far... and the easiest... Only thing is ... it should have a 2nd escape door. All shelters NEED 2 doors for exit and entrance... in case of another critter entering same... thank you

    • @nancymoore7341
      @nancymoore7341 Před 8 lety

      +Cole and Marmalade Thank you for what you do for our feral friends. Also, for recognizing my reply. Have a wonderful day.

  • @MsMedford
    @MsMedford Před 10 lety

    Cutest quality control EVER!

  • @thatoneplantyoufindinthese9848

    I just found a young stray cat I've name Vix he lives in a concrete pipe I just started feeding him so he's still scared but I want to help him. This is really good when it started starts getting cold. I really like him so I don't want him to die during winter.

  • @MrComanche87
    @MrComanche87 Před 6 lety +2

    There is a special place in Heaven for you, young man.

  • @StacieDShitsandGigs
    @StacieDShitsandGigs Před 9 lety +1

    This video is popping up all love cats pages today :)