Any cat owner knows that cats are very independent and have a mind of their own. But at the same time, they’re stuck in their ways and like have routines, which makes it very difficult when it’s time to move. Moving is stressful on anyone, but it will be particularly stressful on your cat since he won’t understand what’s going on. That is why it’s important to be considerate of your cat when you move and to take certain steps to help your cat have a stress free move.
Here six proven tips to make the transition as smooth as possible:
• Start packing early and try not to rush. This way your cat will have time to adjust to all the changes in your house. It’s best not to shock your cat too much; it could be very upsetting for him. By starting early, you’ll give your cat time to adjust to all the new boxes around the house. He’ll be able to sniff them, and will probably want to sit on them. However he likes to interact with the new packing material, a gradual change will give your cat some time to get used to having so many boxes around.
• Keep your cat’s routine the same. Cats don’t like change. It can confuse them if they don’t know when and where they’re going to be fed. In order to keep your cat as relaxed as possible continue feeding him at the same time you usually do; leave his bed out so he has a comfortable place to sleep; and leave his toys around the house for him to play with. This way, despite the mess of boxes, your cat will still have a sense of security.
• Get some ID tags with your new address on it. No one plans on losing their cat when they move. But with all the confusion that happens when you move, it’s better to be safe than sorry. In the event that your cat does run away or somehow gets lost it’ll be easier for him to make his way back home.
• On the day of the move, put your cat in a room and shut the door. Moving is hectic and stressful and if you’ve hired a moving company, the movers may not know you have a cat hanging around. Put a sign on the door that says “Do not open Cat inside.” Having your cat away from the movers and the commotion will be much easier on everyone and will prevent your cat from escaping.
• Travel with your cat in the car. Cats generally don’t like long trips, so it’s best that you bring your cat with you in the car. Put him in a medium sized cat carrier. This is safer for the cat as well as for the driver and passengers. If your cat isn’t used to travelling long distances, take him on a few short rides before the move to get him used to it. When it’s time for the day of the big move, it won’t be such a big deal or such a sock for your cat to travel in his cat carrier. If traveling is familiar to him, you won’t have as many problems when the time comes for the big move.
• When you arrive at your new home allow your cat to sniff around and explore his new territory. This way he’ll be able to establish himself in his new surroundsings, smell the familiar smells of the old furniture and find his place in your new home. Ideally, you’ll have your furniture all set up before bringing your cat in, but if you don’t, put him in a room where you can close the door until everything is moved in. Make sure your cat has access to his food, water, litter box and toys. These familiar items will make the transition much easier for your cat.
Lorne MacInnes is a managing partner of Ferguson Moving & Storage (http://www.fergusonmoving.com), one of the oldest Vancouver moving companies, and an industry expert in the moving and relocation sector in North America.
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