Moving With Your Cat

Cats are creatures of habit, and they don't do well with change. So, when it's time to move to a new house, it can be a very stressful experience for them. However, there are some things you can do to make the transition a little easier on your kitty. Taking steps to keep your pet calm and comfortable will ensure a more pleasant experience for everyone.

When preparing your cat for the move, you want to be sure their ID collar is secure and current with correct information. Many cats have been known to run off when moving to a new home. It's advised to microchip your pet before the move to help ensure a safe reunion if they do escape.

Additionally, trying to keep your pet cat's daily routine as normal as possible is essential. Lots of changes happen leading up to moving from one place to another. One thing you can do to help your cat adjust to these changes is to introduce boxes into the space, allowing your cat to become more familiar with them before the disappearance of favorite objects or furniture occurs, which stresses our feline companions out.

The slow introduction of the cat carrier is also highly recommended. Bringing the crate into the home, place it in a quiet corner before the packing begins. Use comfortable blankets, enticing treats, and familiar toys in the carrier to help create a sense of comfort, and link positive associations with the carrier. Allowing your cat the freedom to come and go from the carrier in the weeks leading up to the move helps it become more comfortable with the carrier. It's essential to find a quiet corner for your cat's carrier. As the packing and moving become more intense and stressful, this quiet space will offer refuge and peace for your cat and better ensure the safe transport of your kitty companion.

Once you've arrived at your new home, keep your cat safe in its carrier while you ensure the new space is cat-proof. Ensuring all the windows are locked, and all the doors are closed helps keep your cat from running off. Keeping your kitty in one room while there's excessive activity in the new home is the best way to keep your cat safe during the final chapter of the move. Choosing one room with familiar furniture and objects can help your cat adjust to its new surroundings. After verifying the room is secure, you can allow your cat to explore. Setting aside quality time to spend with your cat in this space will allow them to feel more comfortable as they begin to settle into the new home.

Your cat may take a few days or weeks to become more comfortable with the new surroundings, so give it time. Outside stressors such as celebratory fireworks or summer thunderstorms can be unsettling to your cat even after you and your pet have settled into your new home. Be prepared and take precautions to keep your feline pet indoors where they will be safe and secure inside their new home.