Mary Allen
Moving can be very stressful for cats. You should consider these 10 things when moving with a cat.
A change of scenery is sometimes good – but for a cat with fixed habits, this is a real stress factor! Avoid additional stress for yourself and for the cat by paying attention to the following 10 things.
Don’t Overlook the Small Print in the contract
Even before the actual move takes place, it should be clarified how keeping cats is regulated in the rental agreement. Not that there will soon be trouble with the landlord or the neighbors!
It’s Better to Be Well Prepared Than a Panicked Cat
Plan the move well in advance to avoid unnecessary stress. If all rooms are cleared out at the same time, leave the cat in a quiet room or bathroom with its litter box, favorite blanket, food, and water until the fuss is over.
Do Not Overlook New Sources of Danger
Balconies, slippery stairs, or galleries may be unfamiliar to your cat. Therefore, secure any possible source of danger. The most dangerous combination: an open apartment door and a panicked cat in an absolutely unfamiliar environment!
Caution During Renovation Work!
Every day a cat licks its paws on which it walks over stairs, floors, and window sills. Therefore, when renovating, only choose organic paints and harmless construction materials and adhesives, or make sure that your cat never comes into contact with the materials.
Don’t Pack Away or Replace What You are Used to
Cats need familiar things that give them security. Therefore, put the furniture on which the cat rubs its cheek every day in the new apartment first. Worn items of clothing such as sweaters also have the family scent. You should definitely take at least some cat furniture from your old home into the new one: don’t buy everything new, let the cat have its old scratching post, bed, and favorite toy.
Cat-friendly New Home
Don’t give the cat any reason to be uncomfortable! Make her new home attractive by providing places to climb, scratch, hide, and litter boxes in appropriate locations.
Don’t Let Your Cat Outside Too Early
Even if the blanket falls on the head of the outdoor cat – he first has to get used to the new environment. Orientation and escape options are the be-all and end-all. Only let the cat outside after about three weeks!
Cat-friendly Alternatives to Freewheeling
If your cat becomes an indoor cat as a result of the move, you should offer it as much activity as possible. If there is a balcony, secure it and set it up nicely so she doesn’t miss being outside too much.
No Completely New Life Structures, Please!
The cat finds its way around more easily in the new apartment if its own furniture (scratching post, toilet, scratching post) is set up in a similar way to that in the old apartment. In addition, the daily cuddling, playing, and eating times should be maintained during the move and afterward.
Attention, This is My Territory Now!
If there are a lot of cats in the new neighborhood, your cat will have to assert itself first. Set up vantage points for a good overview. The cat flap should only be able to be opened by your cat.