The feline health experts at Hill's Pet Foods say cats form strong bonds with their environments. The change of place can cause some cats to flee to their former homes when their owners move. If you are considering a home removal with a cat, follow these tips for a stress-free experience.
During the removalists' packing process, keep Kitty contained.
Make sure your cat is in an empty room with his or her litter box, food, water, carrier, and favourite bedding before the removalists arrive. Clearly mark the door so the removalists won't enter. As soon as you get ready to leave the house, keep your cat in its room.
Make sure your cat's essentials are always with you.
Pack a first-week bag for your cat just like you do for your family members. Food, favourite toys, bedding, and dishes should be brought with you. Alternatively, you can ask your removalists to place your cat's bag of belongings towards the back of the van so it will be unloaded first, this is especially important when you are considering an interstate removal.
If possible, take your cat with you on your travels.
Your cat should be always with you in the car. During the trip, make sure he or she stays in the carrier until you get to your new home so he or she won't escape. Use a collar or leash if the cat needs to relieve himself or herself while on a long trip.
During the trip, make sure your cat has access to water. Flying with your cat in your carrier on your lap is an option if you must fly. To keep your cat calm, pack familiar objects in your cat carrier, such as a favourite blanket.
Cats should be microchipped or have ID tags.
Even with all the precautions you take, your cat may still manage to escape. Your cat needs to be collared or microchipped to be returned to your care.
Make sure the room you put your cat in is pre-cat scented once you arrive.
Smell is one of cats' keenest senses. Your new home should have a room that is familiar to him or her for that reason. The scent glands on the cheeks and face of your cat are located around their faces, so rub them softly with a soft cloth. Start by rubbing the cloth with your cat's scent around your new home, starting with the first room your cat lives in.
You should keep your cat indoors for a few weeks.
During the first few weeks of moving into your new home, let your cat explore the outside. Until your cat seems calm in the new environment, you may want to take him or her outside on a leash if he or she is used to a collar and leash.
You should maintain the normal routine of your cat.
Once you've unpacked everything, try to maintain your cat's regular schedule as much as possible. Keeping your family's bedtime and feeding times the same as you did in your previous home is a good idea. Your cat can enjoy your move just as much as you do if you follow these tips.
Contact City Removalists today for more moving tips or to schedule a moving estimate. If you are looking for a removalist in Eastern Suburbs, call us on 1300 441 331.