INSTRUCTIONS:

• Outline the entrance of the plastic tote with a Sharpie marker. This should be 6 inches in diameter.
• Using the blow dryer soften the plastic outline, this will make cutting easier.
• Use the box cutter to cut out the entrance. If plastic is too hard, heat again using the blow dryer.
• Once the entrance is cut out smooth the edges with sandpaper, you can also cover them with duct tape.
• Insert your Styrofoam cooler and cut a matching 6 inch diameter hole to match the tote.
• Put straw inside the Styrofoam cooler and between the cooler and the plastic tote for added insulation, using as much as possible.
• Add your Styrofoam lid and secure lid in place with a few pieces of duct tape.
• Put the plastic lid back onto the tote. You may want to place additional duct tape on the lid as well.
• After you determine the desired location, put the shelter on a pallet or wood to keep it off the ground.
• Cover entire shelter with a dark colored tarp, make sure not to cover the entrance.
• Put a brick or large rock on top to prevent it from blowing away.
• You can cut the entrance in any shape that you desire; a circle, square or cute cat shape.

PROPER PLACEMENT OF SHELTERS:

• They should be out of site from the general public. If someone wants to harm the cats, it’s a lot harder for them to do that if they don’t know where they are.
• They should blend in with the current surroundings, no bright colors. This way they draw as little attention as possible. You can cover the shelters with large, dark colored plastic bags or tarps.
• They should not be in high traffic areas. Cats do not want to go to a high trafficked area.
• Make sure that you use good insulation materials. Straw NOT hay should be used because straw can absorb more moisture and is less prone to mold or rot. Do not put blankets, newspaper or towels inside as they will get wet and will freeze.
• Be sure to raise the shelter off the ground and put straw underneath. It will make it easier for cats to warm the inside with their body heat. It will also protect them from the elements such as rain and snow. If the shelter is too low to the ground the cats can get trapped inside in the winter when it snows.