I have had a few requests for some pics on the new shelter DH and DS built for my ferals. It is made out of MDF and as of now it's now weather proofed since it is inside a tent like structure. When warmer weather comes I will paint it with a weather proofing paint. The front has a large clear plexi glass window. Both of my ferals freak if they cannot see out. For now there is one 6"x6" entrance. Unfortunately I think I will have to add another. The roof is hinged so I can reach inside to clean. We bought a new paint can and spray painted it. It was to be black, but I ran out so it's brown. We poked holes around the part of the can that is shining onto the floor. The bulb started out as a regular incandescent 75 watt bulb, but it was so bright. I found a black light bulb that helped, but it didn't seem to put out as much heat and said it had a shorter life span. So I got a 100 watt red reptile bulb. The lighting is now a soft pink glow!! Inside it heated between 25 and 30 degrees warmer than outside. At one point when it was 39 outside, the shelter was registering 71!! On the bottom I have 2 electric heat pads. I found a you tube video on using the light bulb and paint or coffee can. You vary the wattage of the bulb based on the size of the shelter. Mine is about 12 cubic feet. I also insulated it with the silver Reflectix. We hot glued it on, but I also have just duct taped it on in rubbermaid shelters. If I can get the cats to start using the shelter, I may get a hound heater. It has an adjustable thermostat and very long lasting ceramic bulb that has not light. Hope this helps everyone out. Here are a few pictures.
