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How to turn campaign signs into cat shelters
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How to turn campaign signs into cat shelters

What goes astray cats and do politicians have anything in common? Well, not much, but they can help each other. Each election cycle, political signs appear along roadsides and in neighborhood yards, promoting various candidates and election initiatives. But what happens to these signs once the election is over? Most likely, they end up in the trash. However, Kelly Broodry, a retired engineer from Pocatello, Idaho, discovered a creative way to recycle these panels by turning them into warm shelters for stray cats.

The inspiration behind the project

The idea to turn remaining countryside signs into cat shelters came from a challenge from a friend. Broodry, always up for a creative project, was asked to find a practical use for the many political signs that are usually discarded after elections. Since these panels are made from corrugated plastic, which is not widely accepted in recycling centersBroodry has developed a solution that reuses materials but also helps stray cats. By transforming the panels into insulated, weather-resistant shelters, Broodry provides cats with a warm, safe place during the colder months.

Impact of cat shelters

Although there were concerns cats impact native wildlifeProviding shelter for them can help prevent cats from seeking shelter 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 manage the feral cat population, thereby reducing the spread of disease and increasing the chances of human interventions, such as sterilization programs, which can help control overpopulation.

three cat shelters stacked in a garage
Image: Courtesy of Kelly Broody

How to build a cat shelter

To build a Broodry-designed cat shelter, gather 13 feet of 2×2 lumber and 18×24-inch political boards, preferably 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 panels into sections and place them together to create insulated panels on the walls, roof and floor. Next, cut an entry hole approximately seven inches in diameter in one of the panels. Assemble the frame and attach the panels, sealing them with silicone to protect them from the elements. Finally, fill the shelter with straw for added warmth. For more detailed instructions, download the full step-by-step document cat shelter instructions with Broodry photos sharing for free on the Bingham County Humane Society website.

How can you help

You can help by collecting and donating unused campaign signs from 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 in 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. Shelters may be in contact with local rescues or citizens who might also be interested in building cat shelters.