Moving With An Older Cat? What You Can Do to Manage the Transition

Cats are known for being loyal to places, so many cat owners have stories about their cats running away after moving to a new home. Also, many older cats often have medical needs that can make moving a little more complicated. Ultimately, if you’re moving with an older cat, you may be worried about your cat’s health and happiness. These suggestions can help ensure that your older cat will be comfortable and safe in your new home.

Research New Vets Before Moving

If you’re moving far away from your cat’s veterinarian, then you’ll need to start using a new veterinarian when you arrive at your new home. Find the vet you want for your cat in advance so you’ll know what to do if your cat has a medical emergency.

Pack Extra Medications in Go Bag

If your cat is on medications, buy extra of those medications before your move, then put those medications into a go-bag, so you’ll always know where they are. Don’t pack your cat’s medications in your moving boxes, as you may find it hard to locate those medications when you need them.

Moving Your Cat

Familiarize your cat with its pet carrier a few weeks before your move. Make sure the cat carrier is made for travel, well-secured, and cozy.  If your relocation involves a long road trip, make sure your cat is used to car rides in its carrier. 

On moving day, keep your cat in its carrier during the hectic time while people are working to move things out of your home. While traveling, don’t open your carrier to soothe your cat. Anxiety might cause your kitty to try to run, especially in unfamiliar surroundings. 

Make a Comfortable Safe Room For Your Cat

Worried your cat might run away to your old home? Establish a room in your new house where your cat is likely to be comfortable, and keep your cat in there as it adjusts. After your cat has been on the property for a little while, it may be adjusted enough that you don’t have to worry as much that it’ll escape.

Put everything your cat needs in that room, including its litter box, scratching post, and bed. Ensure your cat always has clean water and food, the temperature in the room is a temperature your cat prefers, and the litter box is always kept clean. Show your cat that its new accommodations can be comfortable. To help your cat adjust to your new home, gradually take your cat on little tours of the rest of the house.

Keep Your Cat Entertained

Parts of your relocation may be stressful for your cat, while other parts may be boring. Entertaining your cat is one way to alleviate stress and make the experience better for your cat. Set aside time each day to play with your cat. If you have a big family, ask each family member to spend some time with your cat to alleviate the boredom and stress that your cat might be feeling. Doing this could be good for members of your family too!

Don’t Let Your Cat Outside

Don’t let your cat roam outside — at least for a while after your move. If you let your cat outside, it might run away in an attempt to find its way back to your old house. Tell your family to use caution anytime they open the outside door to prevent your cat from sneaking out and making a run for it.

Make Time to Focus on Family – Hire Professional Movers

Moving can be challenging for everyone, including members of your family and your cat. Hiring professional, full-service movers makes it easier to spend time with your household members in the days leading up to and after relocation. 

Contact us today to schedule an appointment to discuss your relocation.