Last Updated on May 2, 2025 by Cat Mad
Moving with a cat? Start early: update their microchip, create a safe space, and keep to routines. On moving day, isolate your cat in a calm room, transport them securely, and introduce them to the new home slowly. Wait two weeks before letting outdoor cats roam.
In This Article:
Before the Move: Set Your Cat Up for Success
✅ Vet Check
- Book a health check
- Ensure vaccinations are up to date
- Ask your vet about calming supplements if your cat is anxious
✅ Update Microchip and ID
- Update your contact details on the microchip registry
- Get a new ID tag with your phone number and new address
✅ Get the Carrier Ready
- Introduce the carrier weeks in advance
- Place treats and toys inside
- Let your cat explore it voluntarily to reduce fear
Gradual Packing & Routine Matters
Cats notice small changes. Sudden packing can make them uneasy.
- Pack slowly over several days
- Stick to their routine (feeding, playtime)
- Limit change in their surroundings early on
Create a Pre-Move Safe Room
Choose a quiet room and fill it with:
- Litter tray
- Food and water
- Bedding and toys
Spend time with your cat there so they associate the space with comfort.
Moving Day: Keep Things Calm
🚪 Isolate Your Cat
- Keep them in the pre-move safe room with the door closed
- Put up a sign to avoid accidental escapes
- Use pheromone diffusers like Feliway to ease stress
🚗 Safe Transport Tips
- Place your cat in a secure, well-ventilated carrier
- Cover with a light blanket to reduce overstimulation
- Speak softly during the journey and avoid loud music
- Consider short practice car rides beforehand
First Day in the New Home
🏠 Create a New Safe Room
- Set up a small room first, include familiar items (blankets, toys, litter box)
- Keep your cat in this room for the first few days
- Let them explore the rest of the home slowly and on their terms
Keeping Things Familiar
| What Helps | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Familiar bedding and toys | Smells from the old home are comforting |
| Sticking to old routines | Adds predictability to unfamiliar surroundings |
| Interactive play | Burns nervous energy and strengthens your bond |
Letting Outdoor Cats Outside
⏳ How Long Should They Stay In?
Keep your cat indoors for at least two weeks. This allows them to:
- Build familiarity with the new home
- Form scent associations and territorial bonds
🐱 First Outdoor Explorations
- Supervise initial outdoor trips
- Keep them short and close to home
- Sprinkle used litter in the garden to mark territory
- Stay calm and nearby to reassure them
Common Signs of Moving Stress in Cats
Watch out for:
- Hiding or excessive vocalisation
- Changes in eating or toileting
- Aggression or clinginess
If issues persist, contact your vet or a feline behaviourist.
Final Tips for a Smooth Transition
- Don’t rush your cat, go at their pace
- Avoid introducing new pets or changes immediately after the move
- Use vertical space (cat trees, shelves) to help them feel secure
- Keep calm, your energy affects them too
Conclusion: Patience Brings Peace
Cats may take time to adapt, but with structure and patience, they’ll feel at home. Prepare early, provide comfort, and let them adjust gradually. A well-handled move helps your cat settle into their new life with confidence and calm.
