For a cat, territory is everything: familiar scents, memorized paths, safe hiding spots. Moving house is one of the most stressful events they can experience. Let's see how to make it more bearable for them.
1. Start getting them used to the box
In the weeks leading up to the move, leave the carrier open in the house with scented blankets and snacks inside. It will become a "friendly refuge," not a terror.
2. Consistent routine until the last moment
Keep feeding, play, and cleaning times as stable as possible. The cat suffers less if the "rest" doesn’t change.
3. Relaxing pheromones
Diffusers or sprays made from feline facial pheromones are very helpful. Start at least 7-10 days before the move, both in the old house and the new one.
4. Moving day: a safe room
Close the cat in a quiet room with:
- Litter box.
- Water and food.
- Their open carrier.
- Their blanket.
Inform the movers not to open it. This way, you avoid the risk of them escaping in the chaos.
5. Safe transport
Transport the cat yourself, in the car, do not leave them with the movers. Carrier closed, calm, no excessive light. Speak in a soft voice.
6. The first room in the new house
As soon as you arrive, even before unpacking boxes, set up a refuge room for them:
- Litter box (same as before, with the same litter).
- Bowls.
- Familiar blankets.
- Their open carrier.
Give them time: they will come out of the carrier when they want.
7. Gradual exploration
After a few hours, open the door of the refuge room and let them explore the rest of the house at their own pace. Never force them.
8. Avoid outside excursions
Even if they have always lived outdoors: for at least 2-3 weeks keep them inside in the new house. They need to memorize it as "home" before feeling the call of the old one outside.
9. Microchip and updated contacts
Crucial in case of escape. Update the address in the feline registry before the move.
10. Patience
In the first few days, they may:
- Hide.
- Not eat much.
- Urinate outside the litter box.
- Meow at night.
All normal. In 1-2 weeks (sometimes up to a month), they will adapt. Do not scold them. Cuddles, calmness, presence.
When to be concerned
- Total anorexia lasting more than 48-72 hours.
- Deep lethargy.
- Completely abandoned litter box.
- Compulsive behaviors or self-harm.
In these cases: veterinary visit.
Long-distance move (to another city/country)
For moves lasting several hours or days:
- Precise calculations of stops.
- Consider anti-anxiety medications prescribed by the veterinarian.
- Documents (passport if abroad).
Final tips
Moving is a major stress for your cat, but with proper preparation, they will come through it serenely. Routine, pheromones, refuge room, and patience: these are the four keys. In a few weeks, the new house will be their home.
```
