Moving is a notoriously stressful event and it can be especially stressful for your pets. Cats are creatures of habit who don’t like change and moving houses and changing up their environment and routine is a big deal. Here are some tips to help minimize their stress when it’s time to move.
Preparing for a Move
Your cat will know something is happening once you start packing and they may start displaying anxious behavior once their home starts being boxed up. As you pack, try to leave one room alone as much as possible - ideally one where they spend most of their time - so your cat has a safe place to hide and feel reassured while the rest of the home gets packed up.
Leave your cat carrier out and slowly begin to familiarize your cat with it and feed them inside of it, creating a positive correlation with the carrier. Offer treats when they are relaxing in the carrier so they associate the carrier with good things. Put a cozy blanket with cat nip or some toys inside the carrier to encourage them to hang out inside it. This will make it much easier to secure them in the carrier on moving day and keep them less stressed.
If you are traveling a long distance by car to your new home, take your cat out on frequent short trips in their carrier so it can become familiar and less frightening on moving day. Most cats don’t like being in the car and don’t travel well. If you can get your cat used to short spins around the block, they will feel much better, physically and mentally, when the big day arrives.
Settling Into Your New Home
Just like when you first brought your cat home from adoption, they will need to start off small. Set them up in one small room - a bathroom or bedroom is fine depending on the cat's personality and how stressed they are - with their cat food, water, and a litter box so your cat can be comfortable. Provide plenty of hiding places and cozy nooks because your cat will want to hide out until they feel more confident. It is normal if your cat does not eat, drink or use the bathroom for a few days at your new home. They just need a few days to adjust, decompress and feel safe.
Once your cat has relaxed and seems ready to venture out of their room, let them explore different parts of your new home. Ensure that windows and doors are closed and there are no escape routes out of the house. Make sure everything is quiet and calm so the cat has a positive experience while being introduced to their new home. Let them explore a few rooms at a time before returning them back to their original room. It can be a gradual process for your cat to become familiar with their new home. Praise them and reward them for their bravery.
They may need to be reminded where the litter box is and if the new home is bigger than the previous home they may need another litter box.
The key to the whole moving process is just taking your time with your cat. Let your cat come to you, never try to entice them out of their hiding place or force affection. Following these steps can ensure that your cat can have a smooth transition into your new home.
Love, Nala
