SPOTAHOME

Moving can be stressful for everyone, including your cat! Since cats are territorial and develop strong bonds to their environment, it is wise to prepare them well for the move.

Following these tips will make the transition much easier and reduce the chances of your cat exhibiting anxious or aggressive behaviour.

Before moving day arrives…

Here are helpful things you can do before moving day:

Leave your cat’s carrier in the house with the door open a week before the move.
Keep moving boxes around the house a few days before the move so the cat gets used to them.
Closer to moving day, put your cat and his belongings in a room for his emotional comfort and physical safety.
Stick to the regular routine when it comes to meals, playtime and attention.

If your cat does not deal with stressful situations well, you can consider anti-anxiety medication or you can send your cat to a cattery before the move and collect him once you have settled in the new house.

On Moving day

To protect your cat from physical discomfort and anxiety on moving day:

Isolate your cat in one room with the cat bed, carrier, water and food as well as the litter tray and close the windows.
Lock the door or place a notice on the door to keep the door closed.
Feed the cat a small meal before the journey.
Once the packing is complete, place the cat in the carrier and secure it safely in the car.
Place the cat’s items in the van last so they can be removed first when you arrive at the new house.

Getting to the new house

Make sure that your cat arrives safely and comfortably by making sure that:

Your cat is comfortable in the carrier and is secured safely in the vehicle. Don’t transport the cat in the boot of the car or in the removals van!
The vehicle is well ventilated and does overheat.
You offer your cat the litter tray or a small amount of food if it is a long journey.

At the new house

Once you arrive at your new home:

Remove the cat’s items first and set up a room in the new house with the cat’s items and keep the door and windows closed.
Bring the cat’s carrier in the new room and open it – stay with the cat if possible while he explores the new room.
Offer your cat a meal and once the cat is relaxed and the unpacking is complete, allow the cat to gradually explore the house.
Be as calm as you can so your cat will feel that the new environment is safe.
Supervise your cat since it may try to hide in small spaces if they become frightened.

Getting used to the new house

These are things you can do to make the transition into the new house easier:

Cat-proof the new house and also ensure that hiding spaces are safe.
Keep your cat indoors for a few weeks to get used to the new environment.
Feed small frequent meals and stick to the same routines as you did in the old house.
If you have an indoor cat, adapting to the new house may be harder so keep familiar items all around the house.

Outdoor exploration

To ensure that things go well when your cat explores the outdoors:

Make sure your cat is comfortable in the new house.
Go out into the garden with your cat the first few times and chase away any other cats while your cat establishes his territory. Keep the door open initially so he can go back into the house quickly if he gets frightened.
Ensure that your cat can get into your home easily (consider getting a cat flap) and deter other animals from entering your property and house.
Get an identification collar or opt for a microchip that will help you get the cat back if he gets lost. Update the address if you already have your cat micro-chipped.
Make sure vaccinations are current.

This is your new home

Your cat may try to return to the old home so inform the people in your old home that if the cat goes back there, not to feed it and instead to phone you so you can pick him up.

If you are finding that it would be more suitable for your cat to remain indoors:

Find ways to exercise your cat with indoor activities like hunting for treats.
Keep cat furniture that encourages movement and stimulation.
Have predator play sessions daily to keep your cat alert and moving.
Have safe resting platforms like shelves and wardrobes and some private hiding places available for your cat.

Following these tips can make an otherwise stressful move more harmonious by helping your cat remain calm and safe before, during and after your house move.

Looking for pet-friendly accommodation? Check our properties here!