But for many feral and stray cats, this is not the case, and if a cat is used to that pampered indoor life, even a few days of roughing it in the elements can have serious consequences.

If residents find a cat outdoors this winter that appears to be accustomed to humans, it may be a stray and should be taken to a vet to check for a microchip, McKinniss said.

Cats who live outside might need a warmer place to hide when winter weather rolls in. Animal Care Services and Indy Neighborhood Cats will host a Pop-Up Winter Shelter Pickup event this weekend.