How to Move a Cat to a New Environment

Cats are creatures of habit; they don't like disruptions in their daily lives. While one cat might adapt easily, moving to a new environment will send another cat into a tailspin if the relocation is not handled just right. Plan ahead for a smooth move. Prepare a quiet space with familiar scents and objects where your cat can adjust slowly to the new environment.

Things You'll Need

  • Collar and tags
  • Rabies vaccination certificate
  • Cat carrier
  • Cat toys
  • Cat litter box and litter
  • Bedding
  • Cat food
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Instructions

    • 1

      Prepare for the move to a new environment by seeing that your cat's vaccinations are up to date. Locate its rabies vaccination certificate and pack it with other vet records in an easily accessible place. Put a collar on your cat with tags and contact information so you can be reached if the cat should get away from you.

    • 2

      Place the cat's carrier near its feeding area in advance of moving day. Put a soft towel in the carrier and some of the cat's toys in and around the carrier.

    • 3

      Put an empty box or two on the floor for your cat to play with as you are packing. Cats are very perceptive and will know that something unusual is up when things are being rearranged in their environment.

    • 4

      Establish a holding area in the new environment where your cat will spend the first few days. Place favorite toys or scratching posts in the room. Have the usual brands of food and litter on hand; cats might react poorly to new brands, especially if they are stressed.

    • 5

      Guard and pamper your cat on the day of the move. Talk to it in a calm voice as you place it in its carrier; leave it there until it is safely located in the new place. Don't allow the cat to ride outside of the carrier in the car.

    • 6

      Confine your cat to the designated room with its bedding and its litter box. Familiar scents are calming to animals, so take the bed and box from the old location; don't buy anything new. Keep your cat confined to this room for a few days or weeks, depending of the temperament of the cat.

    • 7

      Allow your cat to gradually venture out into the new environment. Spend quiet time in the room with the cat, but don't push the cat to venture out of the room until it's ready. If your cat won't eat at first, continue to offer food and make sure it is drinking water.