The Secret Life Of Feral Cats And Straw Beds

Feral cats need a warm and dry place to sleep, and straw is the best material to provide this. It is a natural insulator, trapping warm air and preventing heat loss. It is also dry and loose, wicking away water and preventing dampness. This is in contrast to hay, which is used to feed animals and soaks up moisture, becoming cold and uncomfortable for cats. Straw is also cost-effective, comfortable, and easy to replace. It is important to keep cat shelters hygienic, and straw bedding can be easily removed and replaced.

Why straw is better than hay for feral cats

When it comes to bedding for outdoor cat houses, straw is far superior to hay for keeping feral cats warm and comfortable.

Firstly, straw and hay have different properties. Straw is the hollow, dried stem of harvested grain, while hay is dried grass. Straw is typically used for bedding, and hay for feeding animals. Hay soaks up moisture, making it cold and uncomfortable for cats, and it can also get mouldy. In contrast, straw repels moisture, making it ideal for keeping cats warm and dry.

Secondly, straw is a better insulator than hay. Its hollow structure allows it to trap warm air and function as insulation. This is particularly important for cats, who are skilled at generating heat but need help retaining it.

Thirdly, straw is more comfortable for cats than hay. It provides a soft, dry, and loose material for cats to burrow into and settle on. Hay, on the other hand, can become damp and cold, making it less than ideal for cats to rest on.

Finally, straw is more affordable than hay. Hay generally costs two to three times more than straw, and a little straw goes a long way. Straw is also easier to source and can be found at pet and farm supply stores, garden centres, and local farms.

In conclusion, straw is the clear winner when it comes to choosing between straw and hay for feral cat bedding. It keeps cats warm, dry, and comfortable, and it is also cost-effective and readily available.

Where to buy straw for feral cats

When it comes to bedding for outdoor cat houses, straw is a much better option than hay. Straw is dry and repels moisture, while hay becomes soggy and uncomfortable for cats. It is also potentially dangerous for cats in winter, as it can make them more prone to sickness.

Farm, Livestock, or Agricultural Supply Stores

You can find straw in farm, livestock, or agricultural supply stores. These stores usually carry straw bales, which are economical if you need to line multiple cat houses or if you are sharing with other caregivers.

Farmers

If you live near farms or farmers, they may be a good source for straw. Ask your neighbours if they know of any local farmers who might be able to supply straw.

Vets

Your veterinarian may also be able to provide information on local suppliers of straw. They might have recommendations for specific types of straw that are suitable for cats or know of suppliers who carry organic or pesticide-free straw.

Online Retailers

Online retailers like Amazon and Etsy offer a convenient way to purchase straw. While it may be pricier than buying from a local store, online retailers often have a wider selection and can deliver the straw directly to your doorstep.

Pet Stores

Your local pet store may carry straw specifically for cat bedding. This option allows you to see and feel the product before purchasing, ensuring it meets your requirements.

Tractor Supply Stores

Tractor supply stores are another option for purchasing straw. They may have straw suitable for both cat bedding and other purposes, such as chicken bedding.

Craft Stores

If you're having trouble finding straw, craft stores often sell mini bales for a few dollars. While the straw may be cut shorter and create more of a mess, it can still serve the purpose of keeping feral cats warm and dry.

Remember, when using straw for cat bedding, loosely pack it into the shelter to about the quarter or halfway point. Straw is an excellent choice for feral cat bedding because it is absorbent, insulating, cost-effective, and natural.

How to prepare straw for a cat shelter

Preparing straw for a cat shelter is a simple process, but it's important to get it right to ensure the cats stay warm and dry.

Firstly, it's crucial to know the difference between straw and hay. Straw is the best bedding for outdoor cat shelters as it repels moisture, keeping the shelter warm and dry. Hay, on the other hand, soaks up moisture, making it cold and uncomfortable for cats. Hay is used to feed animals like horses and is usually heavy and green, while straw is dry, tough, lightweight, and yellow or golden. Hay is also more expensive than straw, often costing two to three times more.

When preparing straw for a cat shelter, it's important to loosely pack the straw inside to around the quarter or halfway point. You can buy straw from farm or agricultural supply stores, or even ask your local farmer or vet about suppliers. You can also check garden centres and local supermarkets, especially during the fall when bales of straw are plentiful. If you only need a small amount, craft stores often sell mini bales, and you can also buy straw online.

Before placing the straw in the shelter, separate it by hand and fluff it up in a clean garbage bag. Shake the bag to let the small pieces and dirt sift to the bottom, then remove the fluffed-up portion and discard the chaff. Don't over-stuff the shelter—cats will want room to nest and pack the straw down themselves, and they'll need space to move around. Make sure the entrance isn't obstructed, but you can always add more straw if needed.

It's also important to keep the cat shelter hygienic by regularly cleaning it out and replacing the straw. Straw can last for decades when stored properly in a dry place off the ground, such as on a wood pallet.

How much straw to put in a cat shelter

When preparing a cat shelter, it is important to keep in mind that straw is the best material to use for insulation and comfort. Hay, which is similar in appearance, is not a good option as it absorbs moisture, making it cold and uncomfortable for cats. Straw, on the other hand, is dry and provides excellent bedding for outdoor cat shelters. It is also a cost-effective option, with a bale typically lasting for several seasons.

The amount of straw needed for a cat shelter depends on the size of the shelter. A good rule of thumb is to loosely pack the straw to a depth of 3-4 inches across the entire shelter. It is better to be generous with the amount of straw, as this will provide better insulation, cushioning, and warmth for the cats. Remember to regularly check and add more straw as needed, as cats tend to move around and disrupt the bedding.

When sourcing straw for your cat shelter, you can find it at pet stores, farm supply stores, garden centres, local farms, or even online. The small "decorative" bales typically found at craft stores or supermarkets are convenient and can work well, but they are more expensive than larger bales from feed stores or farms.

In addition to using straw, there are other ways to enhance the comfort and warmth of a cat shelter. Raising the shelter off the ground, sealing the seams, and covering it with a tarp can provide extra protection from moisture and cold temperatures. Remember to place the shelter in a location that is out of the wind and consider adding a weight on top to hold the lid in place.

Other bedding options for feral cats

When it comes to bedding for feral cats, straw is the best option. However, there are several other materials that can be used to keep cats warm and comfortable.

Shredded Newspaper

This is a common option due to its accessibility and "homemade" appeal. It is also lightweight, biodegradable, and allows cats to burrow easily. However, shredded newspaper is not very absorbent, so it will need to be replaced frequently, which can be costly.

Styrofoam Peanuts

Although not a popular choice, styrofoam peanuts can be used as bedding for feral cats. However, they pose a choking hazard and are therefore not recommended.

Memory Foam Pads

Memory foam pads offer comfort and support, conforming to a cat's body shape. They also have insulating properties that provide warmth. However, they can be expensive, and cats may be tempted to chew or scratch the foam.

Styrofoam Shipping Boxes

These boxes provide warmth and insulation for feral cats. They are affordable, environmentally friendly, and can be made from recycled materials. However, they can be difficult to clean and may not be aesthetically pleasing.

First Aid Blankets, Outdoor Cat Beds, Insulated Tiles, and Cardboard

These options have their pros and cons, but straw is generally the best choice for bedding due to its organic, soft, and insulating properties.

It is important to note that some materials should be avoided for cat bedding, such as hay and blankets. Hay absorbs moisture, making it cold and uncomfortable for cats, while blankets do not insulate and can become cold and mouldy.

Frequently asked questions