Helping Your Cat Adjust to a New Home
Moving to a new house can be an exciting adventure, but for cats the change in environment can be incredibly stressful. Cats are territorial creatures who like routine and don't take well to sudden upheaval. When bringing your cat into a new home, it takes patience and care to help them settle in comfortably in their new space. This guide covers tips for preparing for the move, easing the transition on moving day, and settling your cat into their new home successfully.
Preparing for the Move
To start setting your cat up for success in their new home, begin preparations well in advance of moving day. Here are some tips:
- Keep your cat's routine consistent. In the weeks/months before moving, stick to your cat's regular feeding times, play schedule, litter box cleaning, and sleep places. Try not to introduce any unrelated changes during this time.
- Gather essentials. Have supplies like food, medications, litter box, scratching posts, and toys packed together in one place to immediately set up your cat's space on moving day. Include familiar worn bedding that smells like home.
- Consult your vet. If your cat is highly anxious, ask your vet about anti-anxiety medication to help them stay calm. Also ensure your cat is up to date on all preventative care prior to moving.
- Purchase a secure carrier. Get your cat comfortable spending brief periods in their carrier before the trip. This will be their safe retreat during the move.
- Set up temporary housing. If needed, arrange for your cat to stay with a trusted friend, pet sitter, or boarding facility during the packing/moving phases.
- Cat-proof your possessions. Seal antiques, artwork, electronics in protective cases so nothing gets damaged if your stressed cat lashes out post-move.
Taking these preparatory steps will help your cat feel more secure leading up to moving day.
On Moving Day
The key priorities on moving day are keeping your cat confined, comfortable, and as stress-free as possible during the hubbub of packing the old home and settling into the new one.
- Transport your cat safely. Keep your cat in their carrier with familiar bedding and toys. Avoid tranquilizing cats for the drive, as this can cause respiratory distress.
- Set up a sanctuary room. At the new home, set up one small room with your cat's essential items - food, water, litter box, scratcher, bed. This will be their safe zone.
- Release your cat into the room. Once the movers/activity is done for the day, place your cat in the room. Let them scope out their new surroundings without interruption.
- Give them time alone. Resist peeking in or bothering your cat as they inspect their new space. Allow them several hours to get their bearings.
- Limit noise and visitors. Keep the house quiet and do not allow visitors over in the early days following the move. Too much commotion will overwhelm your cat.
Be patient and let your cat decompress from the stress of moving day at their own pace. Maintain their routine of feeding, playing, and interacting with them in the sanctuary room.
Settling Into the New Home
In the first days and weeks after bringing your cat home, focus on making them feel secure, comfortable, and well cared for. Here are some tips for the transition period:
- Let your cat hide. Don't force them to come out from under beds or furniture before they are ready. Hiding is their way of feeling safe.
- Spend time in the room. Sit calmly reading or watching TV to reassure your cat with your presence. But don't overwhelm them with too much direct attention.
- Keep the door closed. Until your cat is fully acclimated, only let them explore when you are home to supervise. Keeping them confined prevents escape.
- Expand their space gradually. After a week or two, open the door to allow access to another room or two for brief supervised periods.
- Encourage play and exploration. Try placing toys or treats around the rooms for your cat to "hunt." This helps build their confidence.
- Use synthetic feline pheromones. These can have a calming effect and help relieve stress. Try Feliway diffusers.
- Prevent escapes. Check windows, doors, and screens for any gaps. Use leashes for outdoor time until your cat learns the new area.
- Avoid punishment. Disciplining a cat for unwanted behaviors related to the move can compound their stress. Be patient and redirect with toys or snacks instead.
With time, reward-based training, and environmental adjustments, your cat will gradually adapt to their new home. But have realistic expectations - total acclimation can take several months.
When to Seek Help
Despite your best efforts at home, some cats struggle to transition successfully. Seek assistance from your vet or a pet behavioralist if your cat shows these signs:
- Hiding excessively with minimal eating, drinking, or litter box use
- Aggressive behavior like biting or scratching
- Excessive vocalization, especially at night
- Inappropriate urination/defecation outside the litter box
- Destructive behaviors like scratching doors or tearing up carpet
- Escape attempts in new outdoor environment
- Ongoing signs of depression like lethargy, disinterest in play or food
Medication, synthetic pheromones, environmental changes, or positive reinforcement training could help get your anxious cat back on track. Never yell at or punish cats exhibiting problem behaviors due to the stress of moving - this will only make matters worse.
Conclusion
Moving can be a major source of anxiety and disruption for cats. By planning ahead, maintaining a consistent routine, designating a safe space in the new home, and allowing plenty of time for gradual adjustment, you can reduce the trauma and help your cat feel content in the new environment. Bond with your cat through play, enrichment, and calming rituals. With care and patience, soon your cat will be happily settled into their new forever home.
Let me know if you would like me to expand or modify any part of this outline. I aimed to cover helpful tips for all stages of the moving process - preparation, move day, and settling in - along with signs of concern and when to seek help. Please let me know if you need anything else!