Moving to a new home can be exciting; fresh start, new surroundings. However, while we’re focused on unpacking those boxes and finding the kettle, the big move can be a very different experience for your cat. That’s why we’ve put together a guide with simple steps to help you and your feline friend feel right at home, quickly and easily.
What’s Changed For Your Cat?
New environment, unfamiliar smells, different layout, new noises.
What can help your cat adjust?
A calm you increases the chance of a calm cat, so planning ahead will make the whole process smoother for both of you.
If you’re moving home with a feline friend, remember that cats always need plenty of time to adjust and settle.
Cats Protection say routine and familiarity is essential for your cat’s wellbeing.
Here are some top tips to help your cat before, during and beyond moving day, courtesy of the RSPCA and Cats Protection:
• Register with a vet. Do this in plenty of time before you move.
• Get a secure cat carrier that your cat is used to and happy with before the big move.
• Invest in a plug-in diffuser. Packing and change can be stressful for our feline friends, so in the build-up to your moving day, use one of these to help keep your cat calm. Use them at the home you’re leaving, and your new one.
• If you’re considering putting your cat into a cattery during your move, think about what your cat would prefer, as some cats can find catteries stressful. If you do use one, book your cat in from the day before you move.
• If you’re not using a cattery, allocate your cat a room in each house – the one you’re leaving and the one you’re moving to.
• On moving day, settle them in your chosen room. Give them a small meal and plenty of fresh water. Make sure their litter tray is fresh and clean.
• At your new home, take your cat to their new room. Have blankets and beds that have their smell on them, with, once again, access to fresh water and a clean litter tray.
• If they don’t want to come out of their carrier, just leave the carrier door open and let them come out when they’re ready.
• Provide them with plenty of toys and enrichment. A cat being kept in a room for a few days and then indoors for three weeks may find it frustrating having their space restricted, so they need plenty of things to keep them entertained.
•. Start small and keep your cat in one room for the first few days. A new environment can feel “overwhelming and stressful,” says the RSPCA. This will help your feline settle and gives you a chance to unpack.
• When they’re ready, let them explore the rest of your home at their own pace. Make sure you leave the door to their room open, so they always have somewhere safe to return to if they feel overwhelmed.
• Wait until they are relaxed and fully settled before letting them outside.
• Begin with short, supervised sessions outdoors – avoid times they are usually most active, such as dawn and dusk
• Sit outside with them
• After they’ve explored, call them back in for some food
After a few sessions, they should be ready to venture out on their own.
• If installing a cat flap, consider a microchip version, which will allow only your cat into the house.
• Add potted plants around the cat flap, so it feels secure
• If you don’t have a cat flap, provide a dry shelter in the garden
• To encourage your cat back into your new home, shake a pot of treats and give one as a reward
• Use a verbal cue each time you shake the treats, such as ‘home time’ as words of encouragement.
For more support check out Cats Protection’s Moving House guide and advice from the RSPCA.
Have you got a house move story to share with us about you and your pet? Chat with us on social. #NPM26 #PetPawsitivity #NationalPetMonth
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