Tips for Moving to a New Home With a Cat

Moving to a new home is an exciting yet stressful experience, and it can be even more challenging when you have a cat. Cats are known for their love of routine and familiar surroundings, so a change in environment can cause them anxiety. However, with some preparation and patience, you can help your feline friend adjust smoothly to their new home. Here are some expert tips to make moving with your cat as stress-free as possible.

1. Prepare a Safe Space Before the Move

Before the moving day, set aside a quiet room or area in your current home where your cat can feel safe while movers are working. Include their favorite bed, toys, food, water, and litter box to create a calm environment. This helps keep them away from the chaos of packing and prevents them from becoming anxious or trying to escape.

2. Keep the Routine as Normal as Possible

Cats are creatures of habit, so try to stick to their normal routine as much as possible leading up to the move. Feed them at their usual times, play with them, and offer affection as you normally would. Keeping a sense of normalcy can help minimize the stress they may feel during the packing process.

3. Introduce the Carrier Early

If your cat isn’t already used to their carrier, start introducing it a few weeks before the move. Place it in their living space with the door open and add familiar items like blankets or toys inside. Let your cat explore the carrier at their own pace, and reward them with treats when they show interest. On moving day, this will help make the journey to your new home much easier.

4. Moving Day: Secure Your Cat in a Safe Room

On the day of the move, place your cat in a secure room away from the hustle and bustle. This will prevent them from getting scared or running away during the move. You can set up this room with their favorite belongings, like their bed, scratching post, food, water, and litter box. Make sure the door is closed securely and even consider placing a sign to remind movers and family members to keep it shut.

5. Transporting Your Cat

When it’s time to move, transport your cat in a secure, well-ventilated carrier. Ensure the carrier is comfortable with soft bedding and some of their favorite toys or a piece of your clothing to remind them of home. It’s a good idea to cover the carrier with a light blanket to reduce visual stimuli, which can help keep your cat calm during the drive.

6. Set Up a Safe Room in the New Home

Before letting your cat explore the entire house, set up a “safe room” in your new home where they can slowly adjust. This room should contain familiar items from your old home, like their bed, toys, and litter box. Allow your cat to spend time in this space until they seem comfortable. Gradually, you can introduce them to other areas of the house once they’ve settled in.

7. Maintain Familiarity in the New Environment

Bringing familiar items from your old home can help ease your cat’s transition. Keep their usual blankets, scratching posts, toys, and even food dishes around so that they have recognizable scents in the new space. Familiar smells will give them a sense of security in the unfamiliar environment.

8. Let Your Cat Explore Gradually

Once your cat seems comfortable in their safe room, allow them to explore the rest of the house at their own pace. Don’t rush the process; some cats may take a few days, while others may need more time to adjust. Keep an eye on your cat’s behavior and provide comfort and reassurance during this adjustment period.