Moving house can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, especially when you have a furry companion to consider. Cats, in particular, can find changes in their environment unsettling and it can take time for them to adjust to their new surroundings. But with a little preparation and patience, moving house with a cat doesn’t have to be a hair-raising experience. In this blog post, we’ll share some tips and tricks to help make the transition as smooth as possible for both you and your feline friend. So sit back, grab a cuppa, and let’s get ready to tackle this move with a little cattitude!
Preparing Your Cat For The Move
To ensure a smooth transition for your feline friend, it’s important to start preparing well in advance.
1. Getting Your Cat Used to the Carrier
If your cat is not used to being in a carrier, it’s important to start getting them accustomed to it well before the move. Place their bed and toys inside the carrier and leave it open for them to explore. Gradually start closing the door for short periods of time, offering treats and praise when they enter and exit the carrier. This will help to reduce their anxiety and make it easier for them to travel in their carrier on moving day.
2. Making the New House Cat-Friendly
Before moving day, take the time to familiarize yourself with your new home and consider how you can make it cat-friendly. Ensure that there are plenty of hiding places and spaces for your cat to retreat to if they feel scared or overwhelmed. Make sure that windows are secure and that there are no areas that could pose a danger to your cat.
3. Familiarizing Your Cat with the New Surroundings
Similar to moving home with a dog and if possible, take your cat to the new house a few times before the move to allow them to explore and get used to the new environment. You could also bring a familiar item, such as a blanket or toy, to place in their designated space to help them feel more at home.
Packing & Moving Day
Packing and moving day can be chaotic, and it’s important to take the necessary steps to minimize stress for both you and your cat.
4. Pack Essentials for Your Cat
Make sure to pack your cat’s essentials, such as food, water, bowls, litter box, and bed, separately from your other belongings. This will make it easier for you to access these items during the move and will also help to keep your cat’s routine as normal as possible.
5. Preparing a Comfortable Space for Your Cat During the Move
On moving day, it’s important to have a comfortable and secure space for your cat. This could be their carrier or a designated room. Make sure that their space is well-ventilated, quiet, and has access to food, water, and a litter box. This will help to minimize their stress and make the move more comfortable for them.
6. Minimizing Stress on Moving Day for Your Cat
Cats are sensitive to changes in their environment, and moving house can be a particularly stressful time for them. To minimize their stress, keep them in their designated space during the move and avoid exposing them to the chaos and noise of moving day. If possible, have someone dedicated to caring for your cat during the move so that you can focus on other tasks.
Helping Your Cat Adjust to a New Home
Once you arrive at your new home, you need to help your cat to adjust.
7. Providing a Safe Space
Upon arrival at your new home, set up your cat’s designated space with their bed, toys, and other familiar items. This will help to provide a safe and comforting environment for them as they adjust to their new surroundings.
8. Gradually Introducing Your Cat to the New Home
Once your cat is comfortable in their designated space, gradually start introducing them to the rest of the house. Allow them to explore at their own pace, and provide plenty of hiding places and spaces for them to retreat to if they feel scared or overwhelmed.
9. Maintaining Your Cat’s Routine
It’s important to maintain your cat’s routine as much as possible during the transition. Provide them with their regular meals, playtime, and litter box. Keeping their routine consistent will help to reduce their stress and make the transition to their new home easier.
10. Providing Plenty of Love and Attention
Finally, make sure to provide your cat with plenty of love and attention. Offer treats, play with them, and give them plenty of affection. This will help to build trust and bond with your cat and make them feel more comfortable and secure in their new environment.
With proper preparation and patience, you can ensure that the transition is a smooth one for both you and your cat. By packing your cat’s essentials, providing a comfortable and secure space during the move, and taking steps to help them adjust to their new home, you can help to minimize their stress and make the transition as seamless as possible.
Remember, every cat is different and may react differently to the move. If you’re concerned about your cat’s behaviour or health, consult with your veterinarian to ensure that they are coping well with the change.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making your move a success for you and your feline friend. Moving house with a cat couldn’t be easier!
If you have any further questions or would like to book a house removal service in Bristol or beyond (we also move offices!), please don’t hesitate to contact us and we’ll be more than happy to help.
Disclaimer – This blog should only be viewed as a guide. Macro Removals Ltd cannot be held responsible for any injuries, loss of earnings, or death as a result of following this guide.
