Moving is stressful for everyone. Moving with felines is even more stressful – for them AND for you! Let’s face it, cats are sensitive animals. They love their routines, familiar smells and territory. Whether you’re moving across town or across country, here are a few tips to make it a little easier for everyone.
Before moving. 
Consider using pheromones to help cats feel calm and safe. Plug in a few diffusers across your house in advance.
Cats are curious. While packing, let your felines be part of the process by allowing them to get in and sit on top of boxes, and play with packing paper. Make it a game.
Have your felines traveling carrier out and open weeks in advance so they have time to adjust and not fear it. Put some of their favorite toys or treats inside.
Seek advice from your veterinarian on other ways to make the process as stress-free as possible.
On moving day.
With all the disruption of moving day, doors are left open and sometimes strangers are in “their” space. Keep kitty safe in a room with their food, water, bedding, etc., and keep the door closed. Move kitty after everything else is moved and the chaos of the day is finished.
Make sure the new space has been thoroughly cleaned as they are very sensitive to scent.
When traveling to the new space, make sure they are in a safe, secure carrier, out of direct sunlight, with access to food and water. Talk to them and reassure them that you’re still there.
Adjusting to their new space. 
Unpack kitty’s belongings first while they are still in their carrier. If possible, consider giving them their own room, closed off from the other space, for a day or two (or longer if you can). Seeing and smelling their items will be reassuring for them. Allow them to explore the rest of the space in their own time. Spend as much time as possible with them and continue their normal routine.
Continue to use pheromone diffusers and sprays.
Don’t forget to register with a new veterinarian and update your microchip details.
Following these few tips can make moving with felines a little less stressful for everyone involved.
Happy moving!
