Worried about stray cats in winter? Here’s how you can help

Animal experts at Copernicus University in Krakow as well as the Krakow Society for the Care of Animals ask residents to consider leaving open windows to basements and ground-level utility rooms for stray cats to seek shelter from the cold.

Research earlier this year estimated that there are around 2,500 free-living cats in Krakow, many of whom struggle to find shelter from the winter elements. Allowing an otherwise unused space to be accessible to them for extra warmth and protection could mean the difference between their life and death.

Experts also recommend that drivers knock on the wheel of their cars before starting to drive, as these are also popular hiding places for cats in winter.

Another possibility for animal lovers is to build small shelters for cats out of commonly available materials.