Moving with cat

by Lenda | May 6, 2020 |

The vast majority of cats don’t like to travel or move , and a move without them is already stressful enough, so the idea is to prepare things in advance to make the change as pleasant as possible.

It is possible that by the time the move comes, you will be a few days nervous, with boxes and packages from here to there, and ultimately, that your cat is perceiving that something strange is happening, so do not be surprised if in the days Previous changes slightly their behavior patterns . Make sure he always has fresh water available, he may eat less than he usually does.

Depending on the personal situation of each one, it may be just you and your cat who move, or it may be a family unit. If this is the case and there are several people involved in the transfer, it would be good for one in particular (other than the person responsible for the transfer) to be responsible for everything related to the animal: its care and hygiene, that it does not lack fresh water or food, and of course, their portion of pampering.

First we will talk about the trip . If it is short you already know what you have to do, because you have probably already made a trip to the vet, but if it lasts longer than usual, you will have to take additional measures for the trip .

You are going to need a cage , preferably one of medium or large size dogs. For how big? To be able to use it not only as a carrier, but as your refuge . Ideally, you should have it at home a few days before to see it, enter and leave, and get used to it. Before starting the trip put him in the cage and then collect his things: bed, sandbox, feeder, toys, etc.

You can move your cat in this cage, and to make him feel more comfortable, place some of your clothing, his toys, or something that you think can give him security and confidence. If the trip is long and the cage is big enough, you can even pack a litter box in case you need to use it (there are disposable cardboard boxes). It is also recommended, if the trip is long, that you have water available. You will know that he is calm if he falls asleep during the trip . In any case, it is very important to note that you should never remove him from his cage during a car trip. They tend to get under your feet, disturbing and preventing safe driving. For their safety and your own, Remember never to leave him out of the cage when traveling by car.

Once in the new house, our recommendation is that you leave him a few minutes inside the cage. Logically, your cat will want to go out and investigate as soon as you arrive, but we imagine there will be lumps, boxes, suitcases, and it may not be a safe time to go out. In addition, this way you can get used to the new smell and perceive what your interaction with the new environment is. You can also take advantage to place their things in their new location, so that when the cat comes out it will find them located.

Before your cat goes out to explore the new house, make sure the doors and windows are closed. Even if in your previous residence he had a habit of doing it, you should not let him go outside until at least two weeks after you have settled. Moving is a very disturbing situation for your cat, and until he has made the new house “his”, he shouldn’t go exploring.

Also remember that if you are going to allow your cat to leave the house, it should be perfectly identified, with a badge and / or with a microchip , especially if you do not yet know the area.

In any case, arm yourself with patience. We know that transfers are stressful situations for everyone, but with a little planning and patience, everything is easier.