Urban Kitty

Contributed by:

The Greater New Haven Cat Project, Inc.
P.O. Box 1432
New Haven, CT 06506
http://www.gnhcp.org/

The harsh New England winters often pose a difficult challenge to the survival of feral cat colonies. The volunteers of the Greater New Haven Cat Project decided to take a proactive approach to the problem by holding “shelter construction parties” several times a year. For the last several years, volunteers constructed housing for various cat colonies throughout the Greater New Haven area.

What You’ll Need

• thick cardboard boxes
• foam insulation
• thick plastic to waterproof the exterior
• straw bedding.

What You’ll Do

The shelters are made from materials that have been donated by local businesses. The result is a remarkably weather resistant, easily portable structure. They provide yet another means by which to assist colony managers and the feral colonies throughout the area.

What You’ll Want to Know

Editor’s note: According to Alley Cat Allies, if you use fiberglass or plastic foam insulation on the interior, be sure to cover it with plastic or wood. Foam needs a cover to hold it in place, and uncovered fiberglass will harm cats.

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Idea Number 22 from 101 More Great Shelter Ideas compiled by the ASPCA and American Humane Association, © 2003