Tips for Moving with Your Cat

Moving is not only difficult on humans, but on our pets as well. Cats are probably worse than dogs about wanting a familiar place. Moving can be easier if you follow a few tips when making the transition.

1) During the transition, provide your cat with a secure location. Make his life as calm and normal as possible. One way to do this is to move ' his' room last. Start with a less frequented room for the cat, and move on the main rooms or where he spends most of his time last. This way, he won't be as upset for as long a period of time.

2) Don't ignore your cat during the move. Many people become so caught up in moving, they forget about their pet. Spend time with your cat by playing and caring for him as usual. Providing his much needed physical care will make him feel more secure.

3) Pack up your cats toys, bedding,litter box and food bowls last. In reverse, when you get in your home, set these up so he can find his needed items, and things will look somewhat familiar. Some people suggest leaving an article of your worn clothing near the cat so he can smell his owner . Although this sounds odd, it makes perfect sense. Cats rely heavily on their sense of smell .

4) When moving, remember that your cat should be secured in a carrier. If you don't have one, your local vet can sometimes lend one for a short trip. If all else fails, your local Walmart of pet store will have carriers. By securing your cat, you ensure your safety and your cat's safety while driving. A nervous cat, might disrupt a driver.

5) Some people suggest to keep your cat in one room, closed in with familiar surroundings a couple of days before moving. They suggest doing the same when arriving at your new house. I"m not sure about everyone else's cats but my cats would be frightened to be trapped in a room. However, we each know our own cats so this might work for your feline.

By keeping calm and providing a supportive, calm moving environment, you can enusre that your cat moves with as little stress and fright as possible. After all, the last thing we as humans need on the night of moving is a frightened cat.

(www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/moving.html )
(www.our-happy-cat.com/moving-with-cat.html)
( www.catsplay.com/thedailycat/2003.../moving/moving.html )