Create a DIY Winter Shelter

This shelter design is inexpensive, durable, and effective in cold and wet weather. It is only one of many options. For other suitable shelters, please see the videos on the home page and the link to winter shelters also from the home page.

Materials You’ll Need

• 18–20 gallon plastic storage tub with tight lid

• Reflectix insulation, comes in rolls or folded sheets (purchase: Amazon, Home Depot etc.)

• Straw (NOT hay, blankets, towels, or fabric) (purchase: Amazon, feed stores, Pet Smart)

• Duct tape or weatherproof tape

• Utility knife or box cutter

• Short piece of garden hose or extra duct tape (to cover cut edges)

• Permanent marker

  
  

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Choose the entrance location (very important)

• Lay the tub on its side

• The entrance should be cut into the long side, near one end, not centered

• This creates a wind break so cold air does not blow straight through the shelter

Entrance size:

• About 6 inches wide

• About 5–6 inches tall

• Cut the hole a few inches above the bottom to reduce water entry

  
  

Step 2: Cut the doorway

• Carefully cut along the marked lines using a utility knife. You can use a hair dryer to soften the plastic and make it easier to cut.

• Remove sharp or jagged plastic

Step 3: Insulate with Reflectix

• Cut Reflectix to fit:

  • Floor

  • Sides

  • Back wall

  • Underside of lid

  • It's easiest to cover the hole with Reflectix and then cut out after you're finished instead of fitting the Reflectix around it.

• Secure with duct tape

Reflectix reflects body heat and does not absorb moisture.

Step 4: Protect the doorway edges

Duct tape

• Use about 7-8 pieces of duct tape, however many is needed to cover the cut edges of the hole and adheres the hole to the Reflectix on the inside. Think like you're creating a flower out of the entrance hole. (This prevents injuries and improves durability.)

Step 5: Add straw bedding

• Loosely fill the shelter with straw

• Allow space for cats to burrow

🚫 Do NOT use:

• Blankets or towels

• Newspaper

• Hay

These materials trap moisture and can freeze.

Step 6: Secure the lid and ensure the latches are closed.

Step 7: Place the shelter properly

• Elevate several inches off the ground onto some form of platform if possible.

• Face the entrance away from prevailing wind

• Place in a quiet, low-traffic area

• Avoid low or flood-prone spots

Optional: Add weight on top to prevent shifting, such as a brick or large stone.

Maintenance Tips

• Check after storms or freezes

• Replace wet straw immediately

• Inspect insulation and tape seasonally