Winter Shelter

We're still not sure what we are going to do with Gus (AKA Francis, apparently his real name).

I'd like to know what the options are for a winter shelter. We have a covered porch...so perhaps we can put some sort of insulated house on there where he would be sheltered from the snow/wind. Insulated dog houses seem quite expensive...what could we use to make a similar insulated shelter?

Also, are there any cat doors that will fit into a window without cutting it?

As I said, we're not sure what we are doing about him, but I'm just looking at options right now.

we care for 6 ferals. We had a pretty brutal winter last year in Cleveland, not too far from you! I bought electric pads (K&D lectro kennel - bought on ebay) made for outdoors and put them in their houses along with straw. They used these a lot. Also got some space heaters and set them up to blow some heat into a few cardboard boxes. The cats hung out here most of the time and came through the winter just fine. Good luck with yours!

If you've got the kind of window that lifts up vertically it would be SUPER easy to build a weather proof cat door that won't wreak the window. If it opens outwards it's weather proofing that will be the issue :x. It can be done, but it won't be pretty!

If you get some plywood & insulation it's pretty easy to build a box, even if you aren't handy. A heating bad is a great suggestions.

(Francis is a great name for him! )

I make a shelter using Rubbermaid containers for caretakers in our s/n group. I stole the idea from the Internet but have made a couple of modifications that keep it warm, cozy and usable for years. If you want, I can send instructions. PM me with your email.

Mine uses two totes, one inside the other, with insulation all around and a porthole cut for entry. Up to five cats can snuggle in it.

You can also just cut a hole in a small Rubbermaid tote or a Styrofoam cooler and fill with straw. They are OK because you have a covered porch. The tote is washable but you'll have to toss the cooler in the spring.

ps Francis is adorable.

on the internet. Just google "feline outdoor winter shelters" or something like that and you will get lots of ideas. I used the rubbermaid tote last year with insulation and straw bedding. Good luck!