Moving with cats
Cats can have a very difficult time with
the process of moving, both in terms of the
traveling and getting used to a new home.
When their daily schedule is disrupted, cats
can become nervous and may behave strangely.
A new environment can also be a major source
of anxiety for a cat, and it may take some
time before your cat gets readjusted.
Make a trip to the veterinarian to have
your cat checked prior to the move. Additionally,
request health records to take with you to
your new destination, and have immunizations
updated where necessary. The vet can also
prescribe anti-nausea and other medications
to make your cat’s trip more comfortable.
Try to make everything as normal as possible
in the days leading to your move, feeding
and playing with your cat as usual. Try to
keep the schedule uninterrupted despite all
of the arrangements you’re making for
the move itself.
If your cat is known to be especially prone
to nervousness and anxiety, you may want
to ask a friend to care for your cat during
the time surrounding your move. This could
help cut down on the stress for your cat.
If you are traveling by air with your cat,
ensure that your carrier is approved for
airline transport. Contact your airline to
determine the necessary requirements for
traveling with a cat.
If you are traveling by car with your cat,
purchase a proper carrier that is large enough
for your cat’s comfort. Your cat will
be less nervous if you place it in a carrier,
and it is unsafe to allow the animal to freely
roam throughout the car when you are driving.
When you arrive at the new home, be prepared
to give special attention to your cat. Examine
the house and its outdoor areas to ensure
that nothing presents a potential hazard
for your cat. Close doors and windows so
that your cat can’t get out; nervous
cats are especially prone to taking off out
of fear.
Be present when the cat is released from
its travel carrier for the first time, and
speak to the cat in soothing, gentle tones.
Encourage your cat to investigate its new
home, but don’t allow it to go outside
immediately. Once your cat is better familiarized
with the inside of its home, you can begin
taking it outside on a few supervised excursions.
Eventually, your cat will be comfortable
enough with its surroundings that it will
be able to come and go on its own again.