Do you own one or more indoor cats? If so, you are definitely in a growing group. In the United States alone, nearly 32 million households have a feline family member. However, as much joy these kitties bring daily, they can be pretty particular regarding their dwelling space. Therefore, you are bound to face a few challenges during a household move. 

Check out a few cat-specific tips to remember to make the transition to a new home as easy as possible.

1. Invest in a Pet Carrier

A scared cat can act aggressively and try to escape, neither of which will be safe in a moving vehicle. Therefore, before the move, pick up a pet carrier to keep your cat contained while you are in transition. You can also use the carrier once you get to the new place to get your cat inside your new home safely.

Make sure you acclimate your kitty to the cat carrier. Introduce the carrier as early as possible and work with your cat to make it comfortable inside.

2. Talk to Your Vet About an Overly-Anxious Cat

If your cat gets anxious during unfamiliar situations or while in a car, you may need to give it mild medication before the move. Never try to medicate your cat without a vet’s advice. However, several vet-prescribed drugs are available for feline anxiety that could soothe your cat.

3. Prepare a Familiar Place

Fix a cozy, familiar space for your cat at the new house before it arrives.

Cats can be distressed in new environments. But, if you can make the space look, smell, and sound familiar, this may ease the transition. Pick a room apart from the others and add familiar items, such as feeding bowls, litterbox, and favorite toys. Consider bringing in an unwashed garment or blanket from the old house.

4. Keep Your Kitty Contained

The first few weeks at the new place are when your kitty is most at risk. If your cat gets out of the house, it may try to get away in search of its previous home. 

For this reason, avoid allowing your cat any outdoor time or access to open windows or doors. If you can keep your pet contained in a secure room for the first several days, it is always a good idea.

5. Maintain Your Cat’s Routine

While you may not be able to change the fact that your kitty’s familiar environment will change, you can maintain its usual schedule. For example, if you feed your cat at a specific time of day, spend some time playing with it at a particular time, or otherwise, try to stick to this routine. This helps your cat feel more at ease despite the new surroundings.

6. Avoid New Introductions as Much as Possible

Keeping your cat contained is vital to keep it safe, but it can also keep it calmer. Cats are not always keen on new people, especially in a strange environment. Therefore, keeping your cat quiet is a good idea when movers, contractors, or utility representatives are in your home.

Need Help Getting from Point A to Point B?

Bringing in the help of a professional moving company will give you more free time to focus on the important stuff, including your pets. Contact our team to get a free moving quote to get started.