I have one aging feral cat who has a winter shelter on my back deck. She's been walking a little more stiffly these days, so I thought some warmth might perk her old bones up. I chose not to use the included fleece cover as we use straw in her shelter for bedding. I put the pad in the shelter under the straw and she loves it. The only downside I have found to this product so far is that the cord is too short and the instructions say not to use an extension cord. Feral cats prefer to be well away from humans, yet my outdoor outlet is right near the back door. I had to move her house closer to the door, which means we might spook her a bit more, but I am guessing the warmth will keep her coming back! ***K&H Comment on this post: As long as you use a heavy duty, UL listed, outdoor rated cord it is perfectly safe. K&H does not advise using straw in conjunction with any electrical or heated products.***