Cats do not have a reputation for being adaptable. Cats, in general, are very territorial animals that are resistant to change and like to spend their time in a comfortable, predictable setting. Unfortunately for our feline pals, there are times when relocation is necessary.
When moving with a cat, it is important to keep them and yourself as calm as possible. Your cat’s reaction to the transfer will depend on its unique personality, but as a caring human, it is your duty to ease its fears as much as possible. Help ease the transition and lower the possibility of your cat displaying fearful or anxious behaviors in your new home by taking the time and effort to reduce stress while relocating.
Learn how to make the transition with your cat to a new home easier by reading the advice below.
What to do before the move?
Moving with a cat requires careful planning and preparation well in advance of the actual moving day. Because your cat is still in his or her usual environment, they are likely to be more curious than anxious about what is happening at this stage. It is crucial to start preparing your cat for the move early on so that they will be more relaxed and adaptable on moving day. Here are some tips regarding what to do before the moving day:
- On a moving day, your cat will be spending a lot of time in their carrier, so make sure it is as cozy as possible for them. You have seen your cat’s reaction to the carrier at the vet before, so if you know your furry friend has a strong aversion to it, now is your chance to help reduce that aversion, at least a little bit, before the big day. You can let your cat explore the carrier at their own pace if you leave it out in a room it often visits with the door open. Feed them goodies around and inside the carrier while placing their favorite toy inside to get them to go there. Start feeding your cat’s regular meals beside the carrier if it is reluctant to enter it, and after a few days, switch the dish inside so it has to walk inside the carrier to eat. The earlier you start, the less of an impact the carrier will have on your cat. Your cat should be able to confidently enter and exit the carrier on their own after being conditioned to associate it with positive experiences, such as food and playtime.
- Sticking to your usual routine is of the highest importance. The same advice that applies to moving with dogs also applies to moving with cats. This includes giving them their usual meals, playtime, and cuddles at usual for their times. Both the new location and the disruption to your cat’s habits can create stress during a move; while you cannot control the former, you can take measures to minimize the latter. Even on moving day, it is important to stick to your regular schedule.
- Your cat’s fondness for cardboard boxes is actually good news for your upcoming move. Put out a couple of cardboard boxes in advance, and give your cat plenty of time to investigate. If they seem nervous, try hiding treats inside the boxes or playing with their favorite toy near them. Spray some organic catnip spray on a box to make them more enticing.
What to do on the moving day?
Your top focus on a moving day will be making sure your cat is safe and sound. Although there are still measures you can take to ease your cat’s stress, you should prepare yourself for the reality that the moving day is more likely to be an anxious one for your pet. Fortunately, you can make their lives a little bit simpler by giving them your time and consideration.
- Provide your cat with a small meal. Anxiety and stress can manifest physically everywhere in the body, including the stomach. If your cat is prone to stomach problems and vomiting, you can lessen their risk by feeding them less that day.
- Load your cat into its carrier right before you are ready to hit the road. While in transit, resist the urge to let them out, even if they are clearly not happy in there. Stay as calm as possible, since animals are pros at picking up on our body language – the more at ease you are, the more at ease your cat should be. Only open the carrier to let your cat out when you are at your new home and in a room with a closed door.
- Empty out one room, even if it is just the bathroom, and pack your cat in there with their food, water, toys, bed, and litter box before you begin loading the vehicle. Make sure that anyone who comes to help you move sees a sign warning them that the cat is inside and the door must remain closed. Your cat may not enjoy being confined, but you will feel better knowing they are safe, and they will be able to relax in their own environment, surrounded by familiar sights, sounds, and scents.
After the move, your goal should be to make the transition to your new house as smooth as possible for your cat. Pick a spot that will serve as your cat’s initial base of operations, and place the litter box there. You should also spend a lot of time in there, playing with your favorite pet and doing other regular things to get back to their routine. As your cat becomes more comfortable, their natural fear will be replaced by curiosity, and they will be ready to venture further afield.
Do moving companies help pet owners?
Moving providers that specialize in transporting animals may be able to help pet owners plan for the transition with their pets. However, before hiring a moving company, you should find out exactly what pet-related services they provide.
It is possible that some moving companies will offer advice on how to best get pets ready for the move, how to best pack and carry pet-related things, and how to best arrange for the safe and comfortable transit of pets to the new site. Some movers even offer pet-specific transportation services, complete with crates, pet-friendly lodging arrangements, and vet coordination in case of emergency.
If you want to ensure a smooth relocation for you and your cats, it is best to have a conversation with a company which provides cheap movers in NYC ahead of time about your special requirements. Do not hesitate to get in touch with Zeromax reliable moving company to help you organize a stress-free move to your new home.