Moving house with a cat or any other pet can be a major hassle, no matter your situation. From labradors to tabbies, different pets require different approaches. Here are some essential tips to make that move a little bit more comfortable for you and your furry friends.
Moving house with pets can undoubtedly increase stress levels, so try and keep a clear head and follow the tips listed in this guide. By staying calm throughout the process, you can help to keep your pets relaxed.
Here is a list of the most important things to keep in mind when planning on moving house with a cat or any other fluffy companions.
The importance of routine
When moving house with pets, it’s usually important to stick to your routines as much as possible. Animals like to keep to regular walking and feeding time, so any major change can stress them out. If possible, ensure you keep to a routine during the move.
Your behaviour on the day of your relocation will impact your dogs’ behaviour, especially if you’re worried. If you act in an unusual way, your pet may pick up on it and start to get anxious.
Arrange one room in the house to be used as a temporary pet room, away from all the action, to avoid unneeded upheaval and to keep the walkways clear for your removal staff. Clear it out first, then add your pet(s) and everything else they’ll need to stay comfortable for the period, such as bedding, toys, food, water, and litter pans.
Moving house with a cat
When moving house with a cat, it’s always a good idea to allow them plenty of time to acclimatise to their new home. This may take a couple of weeks. A house transfer is often more stressful for cats than dogs, and it can take them a while to adjust.
Ensure that the pets are given the space they need to get used to a new home, and be cautious about what kind of pet you own and how you let it explore the house. If an animal is anxious, particularly cats, they will try and find somewhere to hide. It can be a real hassle trying to get a cat out from under a sofa or off a tall wardrobe!
Maintaining the exact meal times when moving house with a cat can assist them in settling down as it increases familiarity and helps make them feel more comfortable with their surroundings. Most animals think with their stomachs, so focusing on food is a good way to ensure your pet adjusts to the new place.
Dogs have their own set of problems when moving that you must remember.
Maintain your routine while you pack. Your dog is accustomed to a particular routine and enjoys knowing that it will be fed and walked. Try to retain as much normality as possible to keep your dog’s stress levels down. This gives your dog a sense of safety and control in their house.
Allow your dog to explore the new area at their own pace once the house is secure. It can be encouraging to accompany them on this journey; some dogs are less confident than others and will benefit from your presence. If you haven’t secured the garden when you first move in, keep your dog on a lead — a long line or training lead can provide your dog freedom while giving you peace of mind.
Choose a Cat Room
Wait Until the House is Ready
Resist the urge to bring your cat into an empty house. An unfinished space can be unsettling and may increase anxiety in your pet. Instead, wait until you have moved and unpacked your heavy furniture, creating an environment that feels more like home.
Choose a Safe, Quiet Room
Once you’re ready to settle in, select a small room for your cat to stay in initially. This room should be free of outside doors and not frequently used. Consider using the laundry room, bathroom, or a bedroom as a temporary sanctuary for your pet.
Create a Comfortable Space
Make sure the room is comfortable and filled with familiar items, such as their bed, toys, and litter box. Familiar scents and objects will help soothe your cat and ease their transition into the new environment.
With these steps, you can help make the move less stressful for your outdoor cat, ensuring they adjust comfortably to their new home.
Prepare Food & Water
One of the first steps is to ensure that your cat’s essentials—food, water, and kitty litter—are ready and waiting for them upon arrival. Set up these necessities in a sheltered corner of your new home where your cat can feel secure and at ease.
Cats are creatures of habit, and the excitement of moving can be unsettling for them. By preparing their space in advance, you provide a sense of familiarity amidst the chaos. Choose an area that is quiet and away from foot traffic to encourage your cat to explore this new territory without feeling threatened.
Make sure to use their regular food and litter brands to maintain consistency in their routine. This small effort goes a long way in helping your pet adjust more quickly.
Use a Cat Carrier
One of the more crucial steps is selecting the perfect cat carrier. Ensure it’s not only safe but also appropriately sized so your cat can sit, stand, and turn around comfortably. A well-chosen carrier will provide your furry companion with a sense of security during the journey.
Once you’ve secured the ideal carrier, it’s time to focus on the travel environment. If you’re driving to your new home, make sure that the car is at a pleasant room temperature to keep your cat comfortable throughout the trip. It’s important to buckle the cat carrier into the back seat for added safety; this prevents it from sliding or tipping over if you need to brake suddenly.
Driving carefully is paramount when transporting your pet. Sudden stops or sharp turns can unsettle even the calmest of cats, so ensure you maintain a steady speed and avoid abrupt movements as much as possible. Remember, creating a calm and stable environment in both their temporary travel space and final destination will help ease any anxiety they might feel about leaving their familiar outdoor territory behind.
Keep The Cat in a Closed Room
It’s crucial to ensure that your feline friend feels safe and secure in their new environment. One effective way to ease this transition is by letting your cat out in a designated room with the doors closed upon arrival.
This approach allows your cat to acclimate gradually without feeling overwhelmed by the entire house at once. By staying in the room with them, you provide comfort and reassurance, helping them feel more at ease. Cats are naturally curious creatures; they will likely sniff around, investigating every nook and cranny of their new surroundings. This exploration is an essential part of their adjustment process.
Remember that each cat is unique—some may take longer than others to feel comfortable enough to venture beyond this initial space. Patience is key here; allow them the time they need to settle in before opening up more areas of your home for them to explore.
Moving with other pets
Other pets can make a move more complex. Small animals like hamsters and mice may be easier to transport if they have a cage, but this process can be very stressful for them.
If your cats are kept in a cage that is large enough that you will need people to help you move them, then you will need to discuss with the removal company how best to do this. Communication with the company is the most important part of most things in a move.
Working with a removal company when moving house with a cat
Moving house with a cat can be stressful for both the cat and the owner. The last thing you want is for your furry friend to run away from your new home or get lost.
If you’re moving with a cat, you must ensure that the removal company you choose is experienced in moving cats. It’s also important that they have the appropriate equipment, such as cat carriers, crates and cages.
Find a suitable carrier for your cat. It should be large enough for your pet to move freely inside but small enough to fit wherever you’re going (if needed). You may also consider getting a carrier with an opening on top to see your cat’s face while in transit. This will make it easier for him/her to adjust if she gets scared during the trip.
Before you book a removal company, research their policy on moving pets. Some companies will not move animals (or may charge extra fees), so make sure that your chosen removal company does offer this service before booking them.
Most removal companies understand the difficulties that can come with moving house with a cat or other pets, and it’s essential to give the company as much information as possible about your situation to avoid complications.
If you’re transferring exotic creatures, such as tropical fish, reptiles, or amphibians, talk to your removal firm about it – your removal company doesn’t want to be surprised by your extended family of snakes!
To pack your pet’s things, the moving company may require particular equipment, materials, or abilities; most businesses are used to such requirements, so don’t hesitate to ask if they have any advice.
At Now We’re Moving, we understand how moving house with a cat or other pets can be complex. We have extensive experience in various situations, helping people move. Get in contact with us if you have any questions or are thinking about moving.
Step-by-Step Guide to Moving House With An Outdoor Pet Cat
Moving house is stressful enough without having to worry about your outdoor pet cat. However, with some careful planning and preparation, you can make the transition smooth and safe for your feline friend. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
Prepare Your Cat for the Move
- Visit the Vet: Before the big move, take your cat to the vet for a check-up. Ensure vaccinations are up-to-date and ask for advice on helping your cat cope with the stress of moving.
- Update Microchip and Tags: Ensure your cat’s microchip details are current, and update their ID tag with your new address and phone number.
- Familiarise Them With a Carrier: If your cat isn’t used to travelling in a carrier, start familiarising them with it weeks in advance. Place treats or toys inside and leave the door open, allowing them to explore at their own pace.
Packing and Moving Day
- Pack Gradually: Cats can get anxious with sudden changes in their environment, so pack gradually to keep stress levels down. Leave your cat’s favourite items, like beds and toys, until last.
- Create a Safe Space: On moving day, set up a quiet room with all your cat’s essentials—food, water, bed, litter box, and toys. This will keep them secure and away from the chaos.
- Keep Them Calm: Consider using a pheromone diffuser or spray in their safe room to help keep them calm throughout the moving process.
Settling Into the New Home
- Set Up a Safe Room: Once at the new home, designate a quiet room stocked with all your cat’s necessities as their initial safe space. Allow them to explore this area first.
- Gradual Introduction: Slowly introduce your cat to the rest of the house, one room at a time. Spend time with them in each new area to reassure them.
- Reintroduce Outdoor Access: Wait at least two weeks before allowing your cat outdoors. Start with supervised visits to the garden, gradually increasing their time outside as they become more comfortable.
Helping Your Cat Adjust
- Maintain Routine: Stick to your usual feeding, playing, and sleeping routines to help your cat feel secure in the new environment.
- Provide Comfort: Make sure your cat has access to their favourite toys and bedding, and spend plenty of quality time with them to reassure them.
- Monitor Their Behaviour: Keep an eye on your cat’s behaviour and look for signs of stress, such as hiding or changes in appetite. Contact your vet if you have concerns.
Moving house with an outdoor pet cat requires patience and preparation, but by following these steps, you can ensure a smooth transition for your furry friend. Good luck with the move, and may your new home be filled with purrs and contentment!
If you are thinking about moving to Cheddar or any other town or city in the UK, contact us for a removal quotation. We offer a simple, stress-free moving experience and have special offers for local moves.
