What do stray cats and politicians have in common? Well, not much—but they can help each other out. Every election cycle, political signs pop up along roadsides and in neighborhood yards, promoting various candidates and ballot initiatives. But what happens to those signs when the elections end? Most likely, they wind up in the trash. However, Kelly Boodry, a retired engineer from Pocatello, Idaho discovered a creative way to upcycle those signs by turning them into warm shelters for stray cats.
The inspiration behind the project
The idea of turning leftover campaign signs into cat shelters began as a challenge from a friend. Boodry, always up for a creative project, was asked to find a practical use for the many political signs that are typically discarded after elections. Since these signs are made from corrugated plastic, which isn’t widely accepted at recycling centers, Boodry developed a solution that repurposes the materials but also helps stray cats. By transforming the signs into weather-resistant, insulated shelters, Boodry provides cats a warm and safe place during the colder months.
Impact of cat shelters
Although there have been concerns that stray cats impact native wildlife, providing them with shelters can help prevent the cats from seeking refuge in places like your shed, porch, or crawl space. Additionally, it gives them a safe place to escape the elements. By offering shelter, individuals can also help manage the feral cat population, reducing the spread of illness and increasing the chances for humane interventions, such as spaying and neutering programs, which can help control overpopulation.
How to build a cat shelter
To build a cat shelter designed by Boodry, gather 13 feet of 2×2 wood and 18×24-inch political signs, preferably made of fluted polypropylene. You’ll also need wood screws, silicone, and straw for bedding. Begin by cutting the wood to form the frame. Then,…
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