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What do stray cats and politicians have in common? Well, not much, but they can help each other. Every election cycle, political signs pop up along roadsides and in neighborhood yards, promoting different candidates and ballot initiatives. But what happens to those signals once the elections are over? Most likely they will end up in the trash. However, Kelly Broodry, a retired engineer from Pocatello, Idaho, discovered a creative way to upcycle those plates by turning them into warm shelters for stray cats.
The inspiration behind the project
The idea to turn leftover campaign signs into cat shelters started as a challenge from a friend. Broodry, always up for a creative project, was asked to find a practical use for the many political signals that are usually thrown away after elections. Since these signs are made of corrugated plastic, what is not widely accepted in recycling centersBroodry developed a solution that reuses the materials but also helps stray cats. By transforming the boards into weatherproof, insulated shelters, Broodry offers cats a warm and safe place during the colder months.
Impact of cat shelters
Although there are concerns that wander cats affect native wildlifeProviding them with shelter can prevent the cats from seeking refuge in places like your shed, porch, or crawl space. Plus, it gives them a safe place to escape the elements. By providing shelter, individuals can also help control the feral cat population, reduce the spread of disease, and increase the chances of humane interventions, such as spay and neuter programs, which can help control overpopulation.
How to build a cat shelter
To build a Broodry-designed cat shelter, gather 4 feet of 2×2 lumber and 18×24 inch political signs, preferably made of fluted polypropylene. You will also need wood screws, silicone and straw for bedding. Start by cutting the wood to form the frame. Then cut the boards into sections and place them together to create insulated walls, roofs and floor panels. Then cut an entrance hole about three inches in diameter in one of the panels. Assemble the frame and attach the panels, sealing them with silicone for weather resistance. Finally, fill the shelter with straw for warmth. For more detailed instructions, download the full, step-by-step cat care instructions with photos Broodry shares for free on the Bingham County Humane Society website.
How you can help
You can help by collecting and donating unused campaign signs from the recent elections to build shelters for stray cats. A great way to do this is to put out a call on social media or a neighborhood app like Nextdoor to collect signs from your area once the election is over. Then, contact local animal shelters or rescue organizations to see if they are interested in such projects, or consider starting a similar initiative in your community. The shelters can connect with local rescues or citizens who may also be interested in building cat shelters.