will the stray cats i feed be ok outside in this freezing weather?

Question

yes they have food and water everyday and my yard looks like hobo row for cats w/ boxes and plastic containers w/ old quilts in them, its just this is their first really cold day. i have tried to bring them in, but they go berzerk, i don't think they would do well in a shelter situation.

yes they have food and water everyday and my yard looks like hobo row for cats w/ boxes and plastic containers w/ old quilts in them, its just this is their first really cold day. i have tried to bring them in, but they go berzerk, i don't think they would do well in a shelter situation.

Answer 1

It is truly amazing how cats can adapt. You seem to have done all that you can if the cats are feral. Feral cats are quite difficult to catch and take to a shelter as others have wisely advised. The most important part of winter survival is keeping the animal well fed, so there is an ample layer of stored fat to protect it. You are taking care of that for them. Just check frequently on their little shelters that you have set up. If they appear sluggish and cold, you can try again to bring them in. But don't beat yourself up if you never get any to come inside. You are providing warm blankets and shelter from the elements and food and water. You are to be commended. You have a good heart!

Someone said to put out warm water for them to drink.

That is NOT a good idea. The molecules in hot water are more excitable and the warmer the water, the faster it freezes. You can prove this to yourself by freezing 1/2 a tray of ice cubes using hot water and the other half cold. The hot water side will make ice first. Just plain cold water is best.

I see that many people are not really reading the question. You stated there are SEVERAL cats, not one and that you have TRIED to bring them in and they went berserk. I still say you are doing all that they will allow.

Answer 2

It's very nice of you to do what you're doing. I'm doing the same thing myself right now. But the thing is, how do we know for sure it's a stray? Some people are just plain irresponsible and don't use their heads when it comes to their pets. They think that just because the have fur, they'll be able to take the weather. That's not true. They get cold just like we do. I have a big plastic box I got from Rubbermaid and put old towels in it. I know exactly when this cat is going to come see me, because he comes the same time every day. Right before he gets to my apt., I put the towels in front of my space heater for about a half hour to get them warm. I realize they won't stay warm forever but it's something. And when I give him water, I make it warm because I know it'll be getting cold fast. If you want to take him in, I think that's a good idea. If he goes crazy, he'll get over it. He'll eventually calm down. It's just an adjustment for him. He can only get out if you let him. Do you think you would like to keep him? If not, then I would do the shelter thing. I donate to my local cat shelter and I know how they deal with these kinds of cats. They put them in a cage that's big enough for them till they get adjusted. Then they'll be able to be with the other cats and have the run of the shelter. Please don't listen to the others that have told you that he'll be okay in the cold. Would they stay outside all day with nothing but a coat on?????

Answer 3

The cat should be okay since it is a stray it is probably used to taking care of it self. If you feel like you should do something you can try putting a box outside with a warm blanket in it for the cat to go in. If you put it's food inside of it the cat might take the hint.

Answer 4

We have a feral cat who won't come inside either. We set up a box for her that is lined with newspapers for insulation, and put in a soft cat bed, and she snuggles up in there when it gets cold. It never gets below the 20's here, though. If you live somewhere that it gets extremely cold, perhaps you could try getting a heated pad for them from a pet supply store. I've seen heated pads on some pet supply websites that are designed for indoor/outdoor use.

Answer 5

No, definitely not in the bitter cold. A stray's life is not a happy one, it would be more humane for them to live in an animal shelter (some are "no-kill") or contact a cat rescue organization.

Answer 6

I have cats outside and they do just fine. I feed them twice a day and make sure they always have water (not ice!). I also let them come into the back porch to warm up while they are eating.

I live near Chiocago and it gets COLD here!

Answer 7

Cats are very robust and resourceful when it comes to finding warm dry places to sleep. If they are getting enough to eat they should be OK though they may appreciate a sheltered spot they can use to get out of the rain and wind.

Answer 8

Take kitty in, seek for the owner later. i comprehend cats are in all hazard wonderful in freezing climate, yet it is how i ended up with my kitty... it became freezing out, and he got here working as much as me, into the abode, and made himself comfortable on the mattress. I searched and hunted for vendors later (he became on no account claimed). if it is the case, the kitty desires a house (yours or somebody else's). i'm too lots of a softie to enable a cat stay outdoors interior the chilly, whether they are lined in thick fur. :-P

Answer 9

They will probably find a warm spot to go to at night.

I usually put a box with towels or a blanket somewhere safe where they can curl up and keep warm.

Answer 10

Probably not, because they can get frost bite, even though they have a nice furry coat. I would say that it would be best to bring them to an animal shelter.