CAT FEEDING STATION
The feeding station size can be varied as required to accommodate the types of bowls to be used by the caretaker. The following represents the size required for one food bowl plus one water dish, or two food bowls. Colonies of up to 5 or 6 cats can successfully use this design.
General construction before addition of roof
Finished feeding station
The construction of the feeding station does not need to be too precise. All gaps can be filled with caulk prior to painting. However, the entire unit should be well painted, as it may be subjected to lots of general dampness from condensation and rain as well as exposure to sunlight. The protective coating is way more important than the quality of construction. You can also drill ½ to 1 inch drain holes at the rear of the floor if you want to enhance drainage from spilled water.
1. Screw the rear legs (13 inches) to rear of side panels.
2. Screw side panels to sides of floor.
3. Screw back panel to sides and floor.
4. Screw front legs to side panels and floor.
5. Cut back and side roof supports (2 x 1 inch wood). These will fit under roof at the top of the side and rear walls. Screw them in place.
6. Attach roof.
7. Screw front roof support to underside of roof and to front legs (2 x 1 inch wood). This fits under the front of the roof to provide added strength.
8. Once assembled use caulk to fill all cracks and seams to minimize water intrusion prior to painting.
9. Use a good undercoat to cover all surfaces prior to painting entire assembly with a dark matte paint.
1. Plywood:
½ inch: 2ft x 2ft (1)
¼ inch: 4ft x 4ft (1)
2. Wood:
2 x 2 inch: 3ft long (rear legs)
2 x 1 inch: 8ft (front legs plus roof supports)
3. Approx 36 Screws (1” No 8)
4. Sealant
5. Paint: Undercoat
Topcoat (Home Depot and other hardware stores often have “Oops!” paint – paint on sale because it was mixed incorrectly. You may find a suitable dark color to blend in with surroundings. Recommend dark gray/green/brown/black, etc.)
NOTE: The width can be varied to accommodate more bowls.
One undercoat and two topcoats of paint are recommended.
If you don’t have the resources to make this type of construction, try attaching four legs to a slanted roof and placing the dishes under it. Trash cans placed on their side and pinned to the ground can also be used, but make sure you make drain holes. Whatever works!
See the instructions on ant-proof feeding bowls.