If you’re moving with a cat, you know that the process can be stressful (on you and the cat). Here’s what you can do to minimize stress for your four-legged companion.
Cats and Moving Stress: What You Need to Know
The best way to make your move easier on your cat is to prepare well in advance of moving day. You can do that by:
- Getting your cat used to his or her carrier
- Prepping your new home for your furry family member
- Sticking to a routine
- Letting your cat explore your new place on his or her own terms
Here’s a closer look at each.
Getting Your Cat Used to a Carrier
To move your cat safely, you need to use a carrier. And while it sounds counterintuitive if your cat isn’t a big fan of her carrier, keeping her in there can minimize her stress. (It’ll minimize yours, too, because you won’t have to worry that she’ll head for the hills – but that’s another story.)
The best way to get your cat accustomed to her carrier is to leave it out with the door open. If your cat doesn’t want anything to do with her carrier – as in she won’t even go near it – you may have to move her food and water dishes closer to it. Over time, she’ll start to accept the carrier as a fixture in your home. After she’s gotten used to it, you can put her favorite toy inside or toss in a few treats.
Pro Tip: Every time your cat goes near her carrier, give her treats and praise. Yes, it’s bribery – but it works. You want your cat to associate her carrier with good things (like ear scratches and treats!) so that she’ll get comfortable with the idea of riding in it on moving day.
Related: How to deal with dog anxiety after you move
Prepping Your New Home
Get your new home ready for your cat before you arrive. Place his litterbox in its permanent location so he can find it easily when he needs it. If your cat is the anxious type, it may be best to let him explore only a few rooms at a time; too much, too fast is overwhelming and stressful for some felines.
Sticking to a Routine
Stick to your routine before and after moving day. If your cat is used to being fed at a certain time, cuddled between certain hours, and even going to bed at a particular time, don’t make any major changes in the days leading up to – or the days following – your move. Any disruption to your cat’s schedule can be stressful, and your goal is to keep things as similar as you can.
Letting Your Cat Explore on His or Her Own Terms
When you arrive in your new home, let your cat show you how she feels. She might be extra-stressed at the prospect of a big space to explore, so watch for signals of stress like:
- Digestive upset
- Bald patches from over-grooming
- A runny nose
- Poor appetite or eating less than normal
- Sleeping more than usual
- Acting lethargic
- Excessive eating or drinking
- Sudden weight gain or loss
- Poor coat condition
- Going to the bathroom outside the litterbox
- Excessive meowing
- Wanting to interact constantly
- Withdrawal from interaction
- Constant vigilance
- Becoming oblivious to things going on around the house
- Repeated pacing
If you notice any of these signs of stress in your cat, a trip to the vet may be in order. Your vet can make specific recommendations for helping your cat de-stress, which might include medication or calming aids – or a prescription for one-on-one play time.
Related: Tips for moving long-distance with a dog
Are You Buying or Selling a Home in Midland, Texas?
Use our site to search homes for sale in Midland and all of our surrounding areas. Unlike the “big name” sites out there, our site is directly connected to our local MLS and is updated faster. By creating a property manager account you can stay on top of the newest homes for sale and get price change alerts so you can stay ahead of other buyers and beat them to the best deals!
In the meantime, check out these 1-click searches:
Leave A Comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.