Cats are territorial creatures that like a daily routine which helps provide the security and happiness they need. So it can be quite a traumatic experience for your cat when all this suddenly changes!

Here are some steps you can take before, during and after the move to help your cat settle into their new home

Ensure your cat is microchipped! In June 2024, it became law that all cats must be microchipped, so make sure you update their records with your new details.

Encourage your cat to ‘make friends’ with the cat carrier. Place it in a quiet room with comfy bedding inside and a piece of your clothing as this provides a familiar scent. Allow your cat free access to the carrier.

In your new home;

Place your pet and the carrier in a quiet room with recognisable items from your previous home, familiar bedding, toys, a scratching post, a litter tray, food, water and some treats.

Ensure windows are firmly shut If the door has a lock…lock it! Make sure everyone in the house knows to keep the door shut and remember to stick a sign on it.

When all is safe and cosy open the carrier door and allow your cat to come out in their own time. Provide gentle, happy attention and food for reassurance. Later, when it’s calmer, and all windows and doors are shut in the house, you can then gradually introduce your cat to their new home.

As your cat investigates, do not stop them from rubbing their head and body against furniture and doors. This is how they mark their scent for security.

The big outdoors

Keep your cat indoors for at least 3-4 weeks. Each cat is different, so judging exactly the right time can sometimes be difficult. It’s all about building confidence, establishing a new routine and the new house as a focal point.

Begin with short periods of time outdoors with you close to the house. You could use a harness or a lead. Allow your cat to scent mark fences, bushes etc and coincide trips outside with feed times