How to Reuse EPS Coolers to Keep Feral Cats Warm in Winter

Every winter, animal lovers and community caregivers look for simple, affordable ways to help feral and stray cats survive freezing temperatures. One of the most effective solutions is surprisingly accessible — reusing expanded polystyrene (EPS) coolers.

EPS coolers are naturally insulated, lightweight, and extremely durable, making them ideal for keeping outdoor cats warm, dry, and safe when temperatures drop. Even better: in many cases, you can get them for free.

Where to Get Free EPS Coolers (Full list on bottom of page)

Many businesses receive temperature-sensitive shipments packed in high-quality EPS coolers — and once the shipments arrive, the coolers are often discarded.

These include:

• Pharmacies (including Target, Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, and local drugstores)

• Veterinary offices and clinics

• University and hospital health centers

• Labs and research departments

These coolers are typically used just once and then thrown away. By contacting these local organizations, you can often acquire gently used EPS coolers at no cost.

This not only helps the cats — it also keeps valuable recyclable material out of landfills.

Why EPS Coolers Make Great Winter Shelters

EPS coolers are ideal for feral cat shelters because they are:

✔ Highly Insulated

EPS retains heat exceptionally well, especially when paired with straw bedding.

✔ Weather-Resistant

EPS does not absorb moisture and stands up to snow, rain, and wind.

✔ Durable and Long-Lasting

They handle outdoor conditions and provide consistent warmth season after season.

✔ Lightweight and Portable

Easy to move, reposition, or secure as needed.

✔ Free or Low-Cost

Repurposing coolers from pharmacies and universities saves money while helping animals.

How to Turn an EPS Cooler Into a Feral Cat Shelter

1. Choose the Right Cooler

Medium to large EPS coolers work best—big enough for one or two cats, small enough to retain heat.

2. Cut a Proper Entrance Hole

• 6–7 inches wide

• About one-third up from the bottom to prevent rain intrusion

3. Add the Right Bedding

Use straw for insulation.
Avoid blankets, towels, or hay — these retain moisture and can freeze.

4. Secure the Lid

Use tape, bungee cords, or a weight to prevent wind or animals from removing it.

5. Elevate the Shelter

Keep the cooler off the ground using bricks, blocks, pallets, or boards.

6. Add Double Protection (Optional)

Place the EPS cooler inside a plastic storage tote for extra weather resistance.

Protecting Feral Cats From Predators

When placing outdoor shelters, it’s important to think not just about warmth, but also about safety. Feral cats can be vulnerable to predators such as coyotes, foxes, raccoons, large dogs, or even aggressive neighborhood cats.

1. Keep the Shelter Hidden

Place the shelter:

• Behind bushes

• Under a deck

• Beside a garage or fence

• Inside a wooden crate or tote

• In a quiet corner of the property

Low visibility means lower risk.

2. Elevate the Shelter

Raising the cooler:

• Keeps it dry

• Adds warmth

• Makes access harder for larger predators

Aim for 4–6 inches off the ground.

3. Use a Small Entrance Opening

A 6–7 inch hole is large enough for a cat but too small for most predators.

4. Face the Door Toward a Wall

Turn the entrance toward:

• A fence

• A building

• Dense shrubs

This gives cats more reaction time and prevents predators from charging straight in.

5. Do Not Feed Near the Shelter

Feeding attracts:

• Raccoons

• Skunks

• Opossums

• Coyotes

Feed in a separate location so predators don’t learn where the cats sleep.

6. Group Shelters for Safety

Cats feel safer when they have nearby companions and multiple escape options.

7. Ensure an Escape Route

Avoid tight corners or enclosed spots.
Cats should always have a clear path to retreat.

A Note for People Looking to Buy Coolers

We receive many inquiries each year about purchasing coolers for feral cat shelters. Unfortunately, due to high shipping costs and packaging requirements, we typically only sell in large volumes.

A Win-Win for the Community

By reusing EPS coolers:

• Feral cats stay warm and protected

• Coolers are kept out of landfills

• Pharmacies, schools, and clinics reduce waste

• Caregivers save money

• The community benefits from compassionate, sustainable action

A simple repurposed cooler can make a life-saving difference for a cat trying to survive harsh winter weather.

Other Great Places to Find EPS Coolers

If your local pharmacies or universities don’t have enough, here are more excellent sources that regularly discard EPS coolers:

1. Independent Pharmacies

Local drugstores receive weekly shipments of vaccines and medications and often give away coolers gladly.

2. Veterinary Clinics & Animal Hospitals

Vets receive temperature-sensitive supplies that arrive in EPS coolers almost daily.

3. Meal Prep & Food Delivery Companies

Businesses like HelloFresh, Blue Apron, ButcherBox, Omaha Steaks, and local seafood markets often have stacks of discarded coolers.

4. Medical Labs & Doctor’s Offices

These facilities receive blood samples, diagnostic kits, and specialty medications packed in small EPS containers.

5. Florists & Nurseries

Flowers and bulbs needing cold shipment may arrive in insulated foam coolers.

6. Grocery Stores & Supermarkets

Departments like seafood, deli, and pharmacy receive EPS coolers during deliveries.

7. Independent Butchers, Fish Markets & Specialty Food Shops

These shops often accumulate a large number of EPS coolers each week.

8. Universities, Biotech Firms & Research Labs

Labs receive reagents, samples, and chemicals in heavy-duty coolers—many of which are discarded immediately.

9. Pet Stores (Especially Aquatic/Reptile Sections)

Frozen feeder mice, fish food, or temperature-sensitive livestock often arrive in EPS containers.

10. Farmers Markets & CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) Groups

Vendors transporting cold products often have spare coolers.

Pro Tip:
If you help a rescue group or TNR program, many businesses will save coolers for you weekly once they know you’re helping animals.