Stress on a Kitty From Moving

Cats may experience anxiety even from slight environmental changes, be it the addition of new baby or pet, or changes to your work schedule. Moving to a different home with its owner, or when adopted by another family, can create such stress in a cat as to cause unwanted side affects. By taking the appropriate steps, such stress can be avoided.

  1. Prior to Move

    • A bedroom is an excellent place for a cat to stay prior to moving.

      These creatures of habit stress over the noise and activity associated with moving. They may not care about the kitchenware being removed, but when you take away the sofa and bed set, their domain is disappearing before their eyes. Whether you are moving locally or over a long distance, sequester your cat in a closed room for a day or two while the rest of the home is being packed and moved. Include its food, litter, toys and a comfortable blanket or sweater in the room.

    During the Move

    • It's no surprise that cats hate water. Try not to move during a rainstorm.

      If you cannot move in pleasant weather, know how the temperature and weather elements will affect your cat. Place extra blankets in their carrier for cold weather and make sure your car's air conditioning works if moving during hot weather. Give your cat frequent water breaks over long distances and never leave it alone in the car. As traffic noise can also unhinge your cat, leave your car windows up and reassure the cat by talking to it.

    At the New Place

    • Cats hide to feel safe. Give them time to gain courage and curiousity.

      Upon arriving, put the cat and its things in a similar room before unpacking anything else. If you have just adopted the cat, and therefore have nothing to unpack, give it some time to settle into its new territory. Some cats may want to hide, but having familiar things around helps them learn that this is home, too. Spend some time with the cat to put it at ease before opening the room and letting the cat explore.

    Signs of Stress

    • Unusual behavior can be a cat showing its stress.

      Stress from moving can provoke certain behavior in cats. The most obvious sign is when a cat purposefully misses the litter box or has physical bathroom issues. Some cats become aggressive toward their owners or other animals by hissing, growling, swatting or biting. Other cats show signs of depression by being lethargic and withdrawn. Closely monitor the cat for a few days for any signs of unusual behavior and continue to watch it over time.

    Help for Stress

    • A veterinarian can best identify the cat's stress and how to resolve it.

      If your cat begins to show any signs of stress, call your veterinarian and describe the cat's symptoms. Most behavioral problems will take some time to change, however, physical problems may warrant a visit to the vet's office.