We all know how stressful it can be to have to move house. There is the confusion of things being packed away and shifted. You and I know what's going on, but your cat doesn't. He will be confused as nothing is in its right place. This will be extremely stressful for him (or her). Not only is his environment changing, you are undoubtedly stressed about the move as well. Your cat will pick up on this and can also become stressed and anxious. Even though you are busy, it is important to make time for your cat.
Keep your cat's favourite toys, bed and feeding bowls unpacked until you are actually leaving the house. Giving him some familiar things will reassure him. If your cat is allowed outdoors, don't be surprised if he seems to disappear in a day or so while you are packing. He is nervous and unsure of what is going on. He could be worried that you will leave him. I nearly lost one of my cats when we left the farm many years ago. She went missing and we only found her shortly before we left. Some cats will even become aggressive, showing this by hissing and biting. Be patient with him, as this is just fear manifesting itself. Keep reassuring your cat as much as possible.
Try and get your cat accustomed to being in a travelling cage before the actual move. Place his bed or blankets, and some toys in the cage to reassure him. Talk to your vet, and let him or her know what is going on. Ask him for something to calm your cat during the move. On the day of the actual move, make sure be travelling cage is placed somewhere where your cat can see you or another member of your family. When we left our farm, our cat was very distressed. The sedative given by our vet didn't work and unfortunately, the day we moved became extremely hot. Our cat was on top of the luggage just behind the front seats. She was stressed from the heat and the fact that she was in a vehicle and did not know what was happening. As it was a five hour journey to our new home, it was necessary to make many stops to give her water and to reassure her. Both my daughter and I ended up with scratched hands from trying to calm her down. The journey ended up nearly killing her as she had heat exhaustion as well as fear. It took over a week of love and re-assurance for her to trust us again. Once she had settled down she was happy once again.
When you get to your new home, keep your cat in one room. Make sure he has food and water as well as a clean litter box, and his bed and favourite toys. These will comfort him and make the new environment seem more familiar. If you have more than one cat, they will stay near each other comfort. You might find that if your cats have always fought previously, they could suddenly become friendly. Going through a confusing and anxious time will create a bond between them.
Even though you are going to be busy unpacking and sorting everything out, always make sure you give your cat is much extra attention as you can during this time. Your cat will sense your mood and if you are feeling stressed, so will he. Take a few deep breaths and try to stay calm when interacting with your cat in his new surroundings. Often, just holding and stroking your cat for five or ten minutes will have wonderfully calming effect on you both.
Keep your cat confined to the one room for at least two days. After this time carry your cat and walk through the rooms in your new home while stroking and talking gently to him. When you feel he has calmed down, start letting him down to explore different rooms. Encourage him to explore, while still keeping him inside. By the time you have finished your unpacking and sorting, you will probably find that your cat is totally comfortable in his new home, and can be left to roam as normal.
Shifting house is stressful for everyone. You can help make it easier for your cat by following these tips.
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