Most pets, especially cats do not like change. They are territorial animals and when moving to a new home, it changes their territory so they no longer have their familiar marks, which is very stressful for them. Here are a few tips that will help your furry friend’s transition into your new home.
- Your cat should be confined in a carrier during the ride to the new home. Riding in a car can be very traumatic for your feline friend. He should stay confined in his carrier until he can be safely released in a room.
- Introduce your cat to their new surroundings gradually. Restricting him to a room allows him to get used to the sounds and smells of your house without being overwhelmed. Ensure his litter, food and water is available. If your cat has a favorite toy or bed, place it in the room with them, the familiar smells can help ease some of the stress.
Also, placing something that smells like you in the room; a sweatshirt or even a blanket can help them feel more secure. Ensure that the room is safe for your cat. Windows and doors closed and no holes that he can crawl into and get stuck.
- Let your cat explore on his own. When he is comfortable enough to explore more surroundings he will do so. If he hides under a bed, let him be. He will come out when he feels safe. Try to have as much furniture in place and boxes unpacked as possible before the exploration begins.
- Pheromone products can also help during your move. Feliway is a synthetic hormone of the cat’s facial pheromone. It is used to mark their territory as safe and secure. It can be found as a diffuser or as a spray. For more information on the use of Feliway for your feline friend, contact us today.
Every cat has their own personality – confident, skittish or social. Knowing your cat and his personality will certainly help you determine what his individual needs are.
