Move along, kitty: Tips and tricks for moving with cats - Dr. Marty Becker

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Move along, kitty: Tips and tricks for moving with cats

Friday, Feb 27th, 2015 | By Dr. Marty Becker

Can you move to a new home without freaking your cat out? Yes!

If you’ve ever moved from one home to another while you had pets, you know stressful it can be — for you and your animals!  Cats are especially nervous when you move into a new house because they are highly territorial.

To keep your kitty secure and calm, you should confine him to a “safe room” before and after the move.  Watching movers trample through his house, dragging his favorite scratching post out the door will only make your cat scared and confused.  It’s better to confine him to a spare room while all your belongings are removed.  Giving him all the creature comforts — food, water, litter box, and toys — will ensure your cat feels snug and cozy.

Frightened cats can bolt out the front door, so keeping him an a safe room will also make it easier and safer to pack your truck for the move!

After you bring your cat to his new castle, put him in another safe room.  Remove the carrier door, but shut the door to the room.  You can offer him treats and praise to try to coax him out, but don’t force him out of the carrier.

In a couple of days, after the boxes are unpacked and the broken dishes replaced, you can open the door to the new house. When he’s feeling confident, your cat will start the rule of his new roost!