Instructions
Move your cat in a secure pet carrier. Do not take the cat out of the carrier during the move.
Bring things from your old home that the cat is familiar with and have her scent on them. It is not a good idea to buy your cat a new little box or bed at the time of the move. Having her old things makes her feel more at home.
Set up a secure room inside the new house before removing your cat from the carrier. Put his litter box, bed and toys inside the room. Put an article of your clothing in the room that you have worn but not washed, so the cat also has your scent with him.
Take the cat, inside the carrier, into the room you set up. Close the door to the room and let your cat out of the carrier. Allow her to explore and sniff the new room. Keep the cat closed in the room until you get the rest of the items into the house and are somewhat settled.
Allow the cat to explore the rest of the house after you are settled. Encourage him to wander freely and check out each room.
Keep the cat inside the house for several weeks after you complete the move. Even if she has always been an outdoor cat, it is not safe to let her out until you are sure she feels the new place is home. Put some of her cat litter outside the house in a few different places to make outside smell familiar.
Put your cat on harness and leash and take him outside, the first couple of times, when you feel he is ready. Walk him to the areas you placed his litter and let him smell it. The litter makes it easier for him to his way home when you are ready to let him go on his own.
How to Keep a Cat From Running Away After Moving
When a cat runs away from home, it is usually because he feels unsettled and scared, which can happen when you move from one home to another. The cat might run because he wants to go back to your old home.