Moving house with a cat can be fretful, but the better you plan for it, the easier the transition will be for both you and your feline friend. There are a lot of factors to consider especially if you are moving countries or long-distance to unfamiliar areas. However, any move regardless of location requires proper preparation so your pet is kept safe at all times.
Key Points for Moving Your Cat
Moving house with pets begins with a thorough plan because most cats dislike change, and if they pick up on any chaos, it could increase their risk of anxiety and attempts to run away. When you move house with a cat, take note of the following important points to make sure it’s a stress-free event:
- If you are moving countries, establish the animal entry requirements as regulations may necessitate your cat needing an import permit and veterinary checks to have their medical records up to date.
- Get a proper pet carrier that can hold water and food to ensure your cat is secure during transit. Introduce the carrier sometime prior to the move so your cat becomes familiar with it.
- Update the cat’s microchip and identification tag details in case it escapes or gets lost.
- Create a safe room before and after the move. This is a place to keep your cat safe during the busy time of packing and moving so the animal is not distressed by the activity in the house. A room should also be set up in the new home where the cat can start to acclimatize to the new surroundings. Make sure it is stocked with adequate food, freshwater, a litter box, and kitty’s favorite toys.
What Not To Do When Moving With Your Cat
There are a few things you should not do when moving house with your cat that could compromise their health and safety.
- Don’t feed your cat within three hours before you transport them.
- Don’t put them in the removal truck and don’t put them in a cargo area that is not equipped to transport animals.
- Don’t neglect them while you get caught up in the frenzy of moving.
- Don’t let them run free the moment you arrive at your destination. Cats need time to adjust and they should be kept indoors for at least one to two weeks in the new house.
Knowing what to do with cats when moving house avoids heartache and harm.
Pros and Cons of Medicating Your Cat
The best piece of advice on moving house with cats when it comes to medication is not to tranquilize or sedate your pet. When a cat is medicated for a move, it cannot control its bodily functions, it increases the chance of choking and being sick, and may also increase their anxiety levels. Using natural herbs such as Valerian or Chamomile, or herb-infused cat products like Feliway are more suited to promoting feelings of calm and comfort.