Cats are territorial animals and moving can be very stressful on them. To make sure that the move goes smoothly for you and your furry friend, follow these moving tips.

Packing

Cats don’t understand the concept of moving, so it will be stressful for them to suddenly see their home get packed up into boxes. Try to leave one area of the home “untouched” until the last moment. Ideally, this area should be where your cat already spends her time. Leave her cat bed and toys here.


It might be tempting to get rid of your cat’s things and just replace them when you arrive at your new home. But it will help your cat if you keep as many of her things as possible. She will be able to recognize the familiar scents at the new home and this will help her adjust faster. So, keep your cat’s favorite toys and don’t wash her cat bed before the move.

The Move

Your cat should be locked up in a room while you move boxes out of the house. This isn’t just to keep her stress-free. You also don’t want to be tripping over your cat while moving. If possible, have someone periodically sit in the room with the cat to keep her company. Remember to tell the movers not to open the door of the room where you’ve put your cat!


Once you have moved out the last box, you will need to put your cat into a cat carrier for the drive to the new house. Never move your cat in the moving van (most moving companies won’t allow this). If the drive to the new place is long, then stop every few hours to offer your cat food and water (though she probably won’t be interested).


Remember that cats should never be kept in the car alone for a long time. It gets very hot and your cat could overheat. If you stop for a rest, take your cat outside in the carrier with you.

Settling In

When you arrive at your new house, first put your cat’s things (food, water, liter box, favorite toys…) in a calm room. Close the door and remind the movers not to open the door. Once you have finished moving in you can let your cat out of this room.


If moving into a larger house, you should introduce your cat to the space slowly so she doesn’t freak out. Keep as many rooms as possible closed. For example, keep the door to the basement, guest room, and laundry room closed so your cat can’t enter. As your cat gets used to the new home, you can open up these rooms.