Moving with Cats

Growing up, we moved a few times with our 4 cats in tow. Anyway, all we did is put the boxes where we wanted them and showed them to the cats as the first thing they saw in the new house. After that, they were fine. We never had an issue with not knowing where the box was or anything. They found their places to hide/explore and we didn't see much of them for a couple of days, but they were fine.

I have moved more times than I can count with my cats. All I ever had to do was show them where the litter box was. They were fine after that. They'll probably hide for a few days till they get used to the new house. Just give them lots of love and if they have an accident, show them the litter box again.

I've moved several times with my cats. We generally show them where the litter box is FIRST, and then let them explore as much as they want. We've never had a problem. Sometimes it's helpful if you have a quiet space that they know they can hide in for a while until they feel comfortable (maybe leave their carrier in the corner of a back room with the door open). Good luck!

Karen:

I would agree with Karen.... When I moved to this house, once things we in and it was quiet I let them out to explore... I have a box on each floor and water on each floor for them. I did not have a problem with peeing but mu girl hid for some time... she is very skittish... lots of coaxing ...

P., RLC, IBCLC
Pres. Lactation Support Group, Inc
www.lactationsupportgroup.com

We have two cats and moved with them a year ago. We showed them where their liter box and food is and then let them explore and we have never had any problems.
K.

We've moved twice with cats who are resistant to change. Each time we kept one room empty (the one that would eventually keep their litter box) and confine them to that room for about a day. Of course, while they are confined we are in there playing with them, soothing them, talking with them etc. Overnight we let them sleep confined in the room so they don't get lost and freak out - everything comfortable and familiar is in there; their beds, food/water, a blanket that smells like mom and dad. The next day we let them roam a little bit more and just gave them lots and lots of attention. It'll sound strange but we kind of 'took a tour' of the house and 'invited them' to the various rooms. Any mewing we immediately acknowledged and called out for them, relieving the anxiety. After roaming the house all day, they spent night #2 in 'their room', then were allowed free range of the house.

If you are moving to a bigger house with more levels than you previously had you might want to try an extra litter box (like one in the basement and one on the upstairs level). That way if they get lost or confused they won't start 'peeing a corner' in your house and continue that behavior.

Good luck!

I should probably add that my cats really hate, hate, hate change and did not adjust well to the first time I moved (they literally would get lost and 'cry' in a panic). Yes, I have wimpy cats lol.