The Simplest Kindness

While National Feral Cat Day is over, it's not too late to think of ways you might be able to help.

One way that is especially needed in the winter is shelter for community cats. 

It doesn't have to be elaborate. 

In fact, if you used a cooler this summer, you might be able to recycle that into just what they need. 

Styrofoam cooler made into a cat shelter, photo from internet.

This simple structure is just a cooler, with straw inside, elevated to help keep it dry, and a weight on top to keep it steady. 

There's tons more of these ideas online, especially on Pinterest. 

You can also take this whole setup and put inside a Rubbermaid cooler, for an additional layer of protection. If you have the supplies, you could hold a workshop with shelter or rescue volunteers and make many at once. 

In addition to shelter, don't forget to brainstorm ways to ensure fresh, unfrozen water sources for all feral cats you care for over the winter. The other natural wildlife, such as birds and other small creatures, may also appreciate your efforts.

What have you done to help community cats make it through a winter cold snap? Share your comments below. 

Easy Ways to Recognize National Feral Cat Day

National Feral Cat Day might be a special "cat lady's holiday", but we don't mind if you share in the festivities. :) 

In fact, we would love for you to spend a little time learning more about community cats and sharing in their love and care!

Here's a few simple ways to celebrate National Feral Cat Day:

-Sponsor a spay/neuter through a local org or shelter. If you need help finding one in your area, comment below and I'll start the search! 

-Share a factoid on your social media, or even a website. Don’t forget to use the hashtag #FeralCatDay and here's a few to get you started, just cut and paste: 

• Alley Cat Allies started National Feral Cat Day in 2001.
• From 2003 to 2013, the number of local governments with official policies endorsing Trap-Neuter-Return increased tenfold.
• Cats have lived outdoors–and alongside humans–for more than 10,000 years.
• Feral cats are just as healthy as pet cats and live full, healthy lives outdoors.
• More than 70% of all cats who enter shelters are killed. That number rises to virtually 100% for feral cats.
• 1 in 4 Americans have fed an outdoor cat.
• More than 80% of Americans think it’s more humane to leave a stray cat outdoors, where she can live out her life instead of being caught and killed.
• #FeralCatDay is October 16. Tag @alleycatallies for more info!

Are you on social media? Take a moment today to share a feral cat fact with your followers!