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Paws of Hope
Winter Is Coming: Preparing for Stray Animals

March 30, 2026

Winter Is Coming: Preparing for Stray Animals

Why Is Winter So Critical?

In Malatya, temperatures can drop to as low as -15°C during the winter months. For stray animals, this period becomes a fight for survival.

In cold weather, calorie needs double. Water sources freeze. Animals that cannot find shelter face the risk of hypothermia. Every winter, we lose the most vulnerable lives.

Last winter, we rescued 3 kittens at the very last moment as they were about to freeze at one of our feeding points. This winter, we must be better prepared.


Preparing Feeding Points

For this winter, we are strengthening 3 main feeding locations:

  • Windproof areas — we are installing wind-breaking barriers at feeding spots
  • Insulated water bowls — we are providing special containers to prevent water from freezing
  • Increased food supply — we are increasing daily food distribution by 50%

We have also started planning new feeding points. Additional locations are especially needed near industrial areas and around schools.


A long-haired orange cat sitting on a bench with patches of snow

Most Needed Supplies

Our stocks for winter preparations are at critical levels. The items we need most are:

  • Dry food — for cats and dogs (at least 200 kg)
  • Canned food — preferred more in cold weather
  • Cat litter — essential for temporary care
  • Blankets and old clothes — used for building shelters

You can coordinate your support through our food and supplies page.

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