Handle with care: tips on moving house with a cat

Moving house is a whirlwind of packing boxes, endless to-do lists, and big changes – and if you’re a cat owner, it’s not just your life getting turned upside down. Cats are creatures of habit, and moving house with a cat could potentially be a major stressor.

We’ll cover some essential tips for preparing your cat for the big day, helping them settle into their new home, and keeping them (and the neighbourhood wildlife) safe as they explore their new environment.

Throughout, Dr Emma Ruck BVSc (Dist) MANZCVS, shares her expert insights so you can be confident you’re doing what’s best for your cat.

Preparing your cat for moving day

Cats are incredibly sensitive to changes, and as Dr. Ruck explains, “they can easily be stressed by big changes such as moving home”.

Starting supportive strategies at least a month in advance can make a world of difference in easing the transition.

If you have more than one cat, remember that even bonded pairs should have their own safe space – moving stress can sometimes upset their usual harmony, Dr. Ruck advises.

Here are some tips from Dr. Ruck to help your cat prepare for the big day:

• Set up a pheromone diffuser: Pheromone diffusers like Feliway mimic the calming pheromones cats release when rubbing their faces on surfaces. Dr. Ruck says they help cats feel at ease during environmental changes like moving boxes and furniture.
• Maintain a familiar area during packing: Keep a dedicated comfort zone with their favourite toys, bedding, and hiding spots.
• Consider calming supplements: If your cat is the anxious type and you are especially worried about the move, chat with your vet about supplements. There is a range available to help ease their nerves.
• Introduce gradual changes: Avoid overwhelming your cat by slowly making environmental changes. For example, move furniture out bit by bit and pack only a few boxes at a time.
• Train them to enjoy their carrier: Use positive reinforcement to help your cat get comfortable with their carrier. If they associate it with vet visits, start early and go at their pace. Cats can even be clicker-trained.

Reducing stress for your cat on moving day

When moving day arrives, keeping your cat calm amidst the chaos is a priority.

Dr. Ruck recommends setting them up in their designated safe room with everything they need –favourite toys, food, water, a litter tray, and their carrier – while the rest of the activity unfolds. This minimises the likelihood of disturbances from movers or helpers and ensures your cat won’t accidentally escape.

If managing this setup proves too tricky, boarding your cat at a cattery for a few days might be a practical solution.

However, if they haven't stayed at a cattery before, this may be an added stressor, so consider this option at your discretion.

Helping your cat settle into their new home

Dr. Ruck states: “Many of the [moving] suggestions will also be helpful when it comes to settling your cat into their new home.” 

This includes maintaining a predictable, well-established routine for feeding, playtime, and interaction.

To help your cat feel secure, keep them indoors for the first two weeks. For the first couple of days, begin with a sanctuary room that includes all their essentials – food, water, litter tray, toys, and bedding.

Gradually allow supervised access to other areas of the house, ensuring they can’t slip out through doors or windows as they are more likely to get lost in an unfamiliar environment.

Creating a safe and familiar environment

Provide activities to help your cat explore and feel comfortable in their new space. Hide treats for them to find, leave boxes to sit or hide in, and play games that encourage movement and interaction, such as wand toys. With patience and these steps, your cat will settle in more easily.

Safely let your cat explore the new backyard

If you choose to provide outside access for your cats, proceed carefully – Dr. Ruck suggests going outside with them initially to offer security. 

“Don’t force them,” she advises, “Let them take it at their own pace. Ensure they can come back into the house if they feel they need to retreat inside."

Supervised outdoor time is a great way to protect your cat and the environment. A cat harness and leash will allow your cat to explore safely while preventing hunting or wandering. Or, build cat-proof fencing or a "catio" – a secure outdoor enclosure where your cat can enjoy fresh air and sunshine without harming wildlife.

Ensure your cat wears a safety collar with an ID tag and is microchipped in case they wander. Adding a small bell to their collar may help warn birds and small animals, reducing predation risks.

Finally, ensure your cat is up-to-date on vaccinations, flea treatments, and worming medications, as outdoor exploration can expose them to other animals and parasites.

The importance of microchipping

Microchipping is key to keeping your cat safe, especially when moving house. Dr. Ruck explains, “A microchip is a small chip, about the size of a grain of rice, implanted under the cat’s skin, usually between their shoulder blades.” 

This chip holds a unique number linked to the owner’s details in a registry, providing reliable identification. Unlike collars that can break or get lost, a microchip ensures your cat always has a way home.

When moving to a new home, cats may feel disoriented or try to return to their old territory, increasing the risk of getting lost. An updated microchip ensures a vet or rescue can quickly identify you as your cat's owner and contact you straight away. Dr. Ruck emphasises updating your contact details in the NZ Companion Animals Register, especially after moving or changing your phone number.

Debunking common misconceptions about moving homes with cats

Many think cats adapt easily to new environments, but they are creatures of habit and sensitive to change. They often need time to adjust to a new home before feeling comfortable.

Keep your cat's routine consistent during the move, including feeding and play times. Familiar smells and objects can help ease their anxiety in a new environment.

Myth: Buttering a cat’s paws

A common myth when moving with cats is buttering their paws to stop them from running away. While quirky, this is unlikely to work and can do more harm than good. Dr. Ruck explains that most cats dislike the taste and texture of butter, so applying it can stress them out. Handling your cat to apply butter may also cause anxiety, defeating the goal of keeping them calm during a move.

So, if you're up and moving again, remember to update your cat's microchip and keep their routine consistent for a smooth transition. And leave the butter for your toast and fry bread! To protect your cat while moving, consider SPCA Pet Insurance. With three levels of cover available, you could find the pet care solution to best suit your furry friend’s needs.