Moving house is a stressful time for everyone involved, and for your cat as well. Your cat will be disoriented and anxious when he arrives at his new home, but you can help him settle in and reduce the chances of him running away or trying to get to his old home. By gradually introducing the cat to the new environment, you will allow him to adapt to the new situation and feel at home again.
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Moving the Cat
Step 1. Make sure your cat is microchipped
Before moving, it is important to take steps to prepare your cat. In the worst case scenario, if the cat escapes, make sure it has the microchip and is fully registered so that it can be returned to you once it is found. Almost all cats today have a microchip.
- Your vet can set it up quickly and easily, without hurting or stressing him.
- The microchip is tiny and is inserted under the animal's skin. It can then be scanned quickly by a veterinarian. The chip contains all the owner's details, so you can find your pet right away. You will need to update the details when you move or change your phone number, because the information on the chip will only be useful if it is correct.
Step 2. Get a collar with your phone number
A more traditional way to identify your cat is to give them a collar with your phone number. So, if he runs away, gets lost or goes back to your old home and someone finds him, you could be contacted easily.
- This is a simple and inexpensive remedy that can make a huge difference.
- It can be helpful to leave your contact information with people moving into your old home in case the cat returns there.
Step 3. Prepare a carrier or cage
Before moving, make sure you have a suitable means of transport for a cat that can withstand the journey without breaking or falling apart. The cat will have to remain in the carrier for some time, and this can be a very stressful experience. Make her more comfortable with her favorite blanket.
- Get them used to the carrier before trying to get them in.
- You can do this by leaving the pet carrier open at home for a few days before the move. You could even put the food bowl inside to encourage him to go inside.
Step 4. Isolate the cat from the commotion of the move
Moving is stressful for everyone, including cats. When you prepare the packaging, leave the cat in a room with everything he needs. On the day of the move it is particularly important to isolate the cat from stress and noise.
- Consider using Feliway, a pheromone-based calming product for cats, starting two weeks after moving for maximum effect.
- Keep the cat in a room, which should be closed all day. Make sure everyone knows the cat is there and shouldn't be disturbed.
- It is advisable to put it in the room the night before the move and leave it there for the whole day.
Part 2 of 4: Keeping the Cat in a Room for the First Days
Step 1. Prepare a room for the cat
Before bringing it to the new home, you should prepare a room to keep it for the first few days. Make sure she has all her favorite toys and blankets available. It will also need to have enough food and water, as well as a litter box and its bowls.
- Cats rely on their sense of smell, so putting furniture in the room that smells like you can help.
- Put a sign on the door to let the movers know not to open it, as a panicked cat could escape.
- You should also make sure the whole family knows which room the cat is being kept in.
Step 2. Keep your cat in its carrier during the move
It should be the last thing you move. After moving all the boxes and furniture, take the cat to its carrier. Put it in the room you have prepared, but don't let it out of the crate when the situation is still confusing.
Step 3. Let the cat explore the room
Once you have completed the move and some semblance of normalcy is back, you can get your cat used to the new environment. The secret to helping him successfully acclimate to your home is to take it step by step. You should keep him in one room for the first few days, but you can get him out of the carrier to explore when the moving noise is over.
- When you open the cage, stay with the cat for some time to make him feel comfortable. Give him some food.
- Don't worry if he hides in a corner or under a bed - he'll need some time to get used to the environment. Be patient and don't try to force it.
Part 3 of 4: Allowing Access to Other Rooms
Step 1. Open multiple rooms
After a few days, you can allow the cat to explore the rest of the house. Make sure all escape routes are closed, then invite the cat to explore other rooms. By gradually allowing access to other spaces, you will reduce his anxiety.
- Keep an eye on your cat when you explore and stay close to him to comfort him or play with him if he appears stressed.
- If you have a leash, you can use it to make sure the pet doesn't run away. However, if your cat isn't used to being on a leash, you could put more stress on it.
Step 2. Consider using a pheromone diffuser
You can use an electric pheromone diffuser, such as Feliway, to release scents that calm stressed cats. You can buy it at your local pet store or from a vet, and it will help create a more reassuring environment for a cat after a move.
- Using one in the room where the cat will spend the most time is a great idea.
- Each cat reacts differently to these speakers, and on some they may not have any effect. You could use catnip as an alternative.
Step 3. Be patient
It is important to be relaxed in the presence of the cat, and to give it all the time it needs to get used to the environment. It may take him some time to get back to his old personality, and become more reserved or quiet after the move. With patience and sensitivity, you can reduce the pet's anxiety and create a comfortable and welcoming environment.
Step 4. Do not let the cat out of the house for two weeks
It is important not to let the cat out of the house during the acclimatization period. Leave it indoors for two weeks so it can completely get used to the new environment before going out. Spending so much time in the new home will help the pet see it as a new home and reduce the likelihood of it trying to reach the old home.
- Be especially careful not to leave doors and windows open at this stage.
- If you have a very adventurous cat who would desperately want to go out, don't let them. Leave it indoors for at least two weeks; the time it takes will depend on the disposition of the individual cat.
Part 4 of 4: Introducing the Cat to the New Garden
Step 1. If possible, create an enclosed space in the garden
When you are ready to introduce the cat to the garden, follow the same rule of gradual exposure. If you can, enclose a small area of the garden. Let your cat enter this area to get used to the sounds and surroundings of the garden.
- The cat should not be able to leave the enclosed space.
- When you take your cat outside, you should be close to him and give him your attention.
Step 2. Don't force the cat out
If the pet does not want to go out, it is probably still getting used to the new home and is not entirely comfortable. The adaptation period varies from animal to animal, so don't force a cat out, you'll only increase their stress. Be patient and let him come out when he feels ready.
Step 3. Allow him to walk freely, under supervision, for short periods
Take it out in the garden for some time and let it explore. Always observe him closely and carry food and toys with you to calm him down if necessary. Start with short periods and gradually increase the time outside as she feels more comfortable. Start with a few minutes at a time.
Always make sure that the cat can easily re-enter the house if it gets scared. Leave a door open
Advice
- Cats with clipped nails should always be kept indoors! Without claws they can neither climb nor defend themselves.
- Don't get impatient if the cat doesn't adjust as quickly as you would like.
- The cat must wear a collar with your details to track you in case it gets lost.
- Your cat is safer indoors, especially if you live in an area where there is a lot of traffic.
- Build or purchase an enclosure to put out, to prevent the cat from escaping.
- If the cat is hiding because it is afraid, give it time to acclimate.
- If you keep your cat in a travel crate, make sure it is large and comfortable.
Warnings
- Be aware of the risk factors of the area you live in: busy streets, wild animals, neighbors' dogs, etc.
- Remember that neighborhood cats or strays may have rabies or other illnesses.
- Make sure your cat is okay with all vaccinations, especially for FIV.
