Moving with Cats
Moving can be a stressful process, especially for your pets. Keep an eye on your cat during this crazy time. Cats may be territorial and attached to their current home. When changing homes, cats may have very weird tendencies and reactions to the new environment. Cats and their fears are nothing to be worried about as long as you know how to deal with them.
Prepping Your Cat Before the Move
Planning ahead is the big secret to a smooth transition for cats. Prepare your cat before the big move. This prep will reassure your feline friend and calm their nerves. Keep their daily routine consistent each day before the move. This makes the cat feel safe and content prior to their changing surroundings.
Reactions to the New Environment
When moving into your new home, your cat may act stranger than normal. Due to their connection to the current home, they may react in a variety of ways to the new surroundings. Some cats may adjust to a new home seamlessly, but others may struggle with the move. Don’t be alarmed if your cat rubs its face on everything in sight. Cats have scent glands in their cheeks and spread their scent to their new environment. This allows the cat to mark their territory and feel at home. Furthermore, your cat may seek more attention than usual, by meowing or rubbing against you. Give your cat extra attention. Reassure your cat your new home is safe and welcoming.
Your cat may also start kneading, a very annoying and sometimes painful habit. Cats may scratch and dig their claws into their owners. While this reaction may not last long, invest in thicker pants to avoid any painful scratches. Moreover, cats may request food more frequently. Make sure there is always a little bit of food in their bowl. In a new surrounding, cats may go to the bathroom all over the new home. They often choose places difficult to reach and clean. Retrain your cat to use the litter box immediately after moving.
Getting to Know the New Neighborhood
Keep your cat inside for a couple of weeks after moving into your new home. Encourage your cats to settle into the new home before releasing them outside. If your cat feels comfortable in the new house, they will return after roaming outside. However, if they feel uneasy in their new home, your cat may not return from their outdoor adventures. When prevented from going outside, cats can become unhappy. They may attempt to force you to let them outside by scratching up the carpet. Put plastic wrap where they like to scratch to prevent any damage. Additionally, double sided tape on the specific area will also ward off cats from additional carpet scratching.
When moving, your cat may act strangely at first, but they may just need some time to adjust to their new surroundings.
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