Moving involves a fair amount of stress. For a cat, the stress if often magnified because the change takes him by surprise and suddenly he finds himself in an unfamiliar environment. Here are some tips to help your cat through the transition.
 

·          During the packing phase, keep his routine as normal as possible. Engage in interactive play sessions on a regular basis to show him that no matter what, there’s always time for fun.

·          Have ID information updated in time for moving day. List your cell phone number so you can reached no matter where you are.

·          If your cat is allowed outdoors, keep him indoors several days before the move. It would be tragic if you couldn’t locate your cat on moving day.

·          On moving day, either board your cat at a boarding facility or veterinarian office, or place him in his carrier in a separate room. The room you choose should already be already emptied out or it should be the last one to be emptied. This will prevent the potential for someone accidently letting kitty outside when the front door is open.

·          In the new home, set up a sanctuary room for your cat. Don’t let him loose all at once. This is unfamiliar territory and he may need time to get his bearings. Set up a room with his litter box, bed, scratching post, food, water, and some toys. If your cat is frightened, set up a few hiding places such as a few open paper bags on their sides.

·          Use a Feliway Comfort Zone diffuser to help him identify with the environment. If your cat is allowed outdoors, don’t let him out right away. He needs to develop a familiarity with this territory. You also don’t know what cats are in the neighborhood and he may end up in fights. If possible, a move to a new home is a good time to do a transition to becoming an indoor cat.

For more information refer to the book Think Like a Cat.

© 2009 Cat Behavior Associates, LLC