Moving House With a Cat

Cats are territorial, scent-driven creatures who rely on familiarity for comfort and security. That’s why moving house with a cat requires some extra planning and gentle care. With the right preparation, patience, and understanding, you can make the transition smooth and stress-free for both of you.

In this guide, you’ll discover how to prepare your cat before the move, keep them calm during t

Why Moving House Can Stress Cats?

Cats thrive on routine. They know where their food bowl is, where to nap, and what the sounds of their home mean. When boxes appear and furniture disappears, your cat’s sense of safety can crumble.

Common signs of stress when moving house include:

• Hiding or avoiding contact

• Reduced appetite

• Vocalising more than usual

• Urinating outside the litter tray

• Excessive grooming or scratching

Understanding that this behaviour comes from fear — not naughtiness — helps you respond with patience rather than frustration.

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Before the Move – Preparing Your Cat for Change

The smoother your preparation, the calmer your cat will be. Here’s how to get ready weeks in advance.

Keep Routine Consistent

Even though you’re busy packing, try to feed, play, and cuddle your cat at the same times each day. Routine equals reassurance.

Create a “Safe Room”

Designate one quiet room where your cat can escape the chaos. Move their bed, toys, scratching post, food, and litter tray there about a week before packing starts. This becomes their comfort zone during the move.

Introduce the Carrier Early

Instead of hiding the carrier until moving day, leave it open in your cat’s safe room for a couple of weeks. Place treats, blankets, or catnip inside so they associate it with positive experiences rather than vet trips.

Use Calming Aids

Plug in a pheromone diffuser (like Feliway) about 3–5 days before moving. It mimics the scent cats release when they feel safe, helping to reduce anxiety.

Keep the Noise Down

Cats hate sudden loud sounds. Try to do noisy packing during the day and give your cat quiet time in their safe space at night.

Important Pre-Move Essentials

Before moving day, tick off these important cat-related tasks:

• Update microchip details with your new address and contact number.

• Order a new ID tag if your cat wears a collar.

• Register with a new vet near your new home in advance.

• Check transport options if you’re moving long-distance (airline, train, or car).

• Pack a cat essentials bag: food, bowls, litter, familiar bedding, and a small towel for the carrier.

A little organisation now will prevent panic later.

Deciding Where Your Cat Will Be During the Move

Moving day is noisy, hectic, and full of open doors — not ideal for a cat on the loose.

You have two options:

Option 1: Book a Cattery or Leave Them with a Friend

If possible, board your cat in a reputable cattery or ask a friend to look after them during the chaos. This prevents escape risks and keeps them relaxed.

Option 2: Keep Them in Their Safe Room

If your cat is staying home until departure, keep them confined in their safe room with a clear “Do Not Open” sign on the door. Feed them early, check water levels, and pack their items last.

Travelling to Your New Home

Transporting your cat safely and calmly is crucial.

• Always use a sturdy carrier – never let your cat roam free in the car.

• Cover the carrier with a light blanket to reduce visual stress.

• Secure it with a seatbelt so it won’t slide around.

• Keep the car cool and ventilated – never leave your cat unattended in a hot vehicle.

• Avoid feeding right before travel to reduce the risk of sickness.

If your cat struggles with car rides, talk to your vet beforehand — they may suggest motion sickness remedies or mild sedatives for anxious travellers.

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Arriving at Your New Home

When you arrive, resist the urge to let your cat explore right away. Instead:

• Choose one quiet room as your temporary cat zone.
• Set up their familiar items: bed, toys, litter tray, food, water.
• Keep doors and windows closed.
• Place something that smells like you — an unwashed T-shirt works wonders.
• Let your cat out of the carrier to explore the room on their own terms.

Allow them to stay in that room for a few days while you unpack and the house settles.

Helping Your Cat Settle into Their New Home

Every cat adjusts differently. Some will explore immediately; others may hide under furniture for days. Here’s how to support them.

Keep Calm and Consistent

Feed your cat at their usual times, play with them gently, and maintain the same brand of food and litter they’re used to. Familiar smells and sounds speed up adjustment.

Spread Their Scent

Rub a soft cloth around your cat’s cheeks and then wipe it on door frames and furniture at “cat height.” It helps them claim the space as their own.

Continue Using Pheromones

Keep your diffuser running for a few weeks after moving. This continuity helps reduce anxiety and territorial tension.

Limit Access Gradually

After 3–5 days, open more rooms one at a time so they can explore safely. Don’t force it — curiosity will take over when they’re ready.

When to Let Your Cat Outside

If your cat usually goes outdoors, be patient. Letting them out too soon is one of the biggest mistakes owners make.

Experts recommend keeping your cat indoors for at least 3 weeks.
During this time:

• Help them build a strong scent profile indoors.

• Scatter a small amount of used litter in the garden before their first outing — it signals to other cats that “this is my territory.”

• When the time comes, open the door just before mealtime so your cat is motivated to return for food.

Always supervise their first few trips and keep sessions short.

Preventing Cats from Returning to the Old Home

If your new address isn’t far from your old one, your cat might instinctively try to return. To prevent this:

• Keep them indoors longer — ideally 4–5 weeks.

• Feed them smaller, more frequent meals so they associate the new house with food and comfort.

• Let your old neighbours know not to feed or encourage your cat if they see them.

• Make your cat’s new environment feel “the centre of their universe” — warm, safe, and full of your scent.

Handling Accidents and Setbacks

It’s normal for even the best-behaved cat to have a few accidents or regressions during this period. Don’t punish them — stress, not mischief, is the cause.

• Clean any soiled areas with an enzyme-based cleaner to remove scent traces.

• Ensure multiple litter trays if you have a large house.

• Offer comfort and reassurance rather than discipline.

Your cat will regain confidence once they feel secure.

Moving Long Distance with a Cat

Relocating across the UK — or even abroad — takes extra planning when you have a cat. Long journeys can be stressful for them, but a calm, organised approach makes all the difference.

Plan and Prepare

Map your route and schedule breaks every 2–3 hours for water, reassurance, and fresh air (for you, not your cat!). Keep your cat in a secure, well-ventilated carrier, never loose in the car. Line it with a familiar blanket and cover it lightly to reduce stress.

If travelling over multiple days, consider pet-friendly accommodation or temporary cattery care so your cat can rest properly between journeys.

Comfort and Safety on the Road

Keep the car at a comfortable temperature — not too hot or cold — and avoid placing the carrier in direct sunlight. Offer small amounts of water at each stop and feed lightly before the trip to prevent motion sickness.

If your cat is anxious, talk to your vet about calming sprays, pheromone diffusers, or mild medication to help them relax.

Moving Abroad

For overseas moves, check the entry rules early. Many countries require up-to-date vaccinations, rabies certificates, and microchip registration. Your vet can issue the necessary health documents, and using a professional pet transport service ensures your cat’s journey meets all safety standards.

Arrival and Adjustment

Once you reach your new home, set up a quiet room with your cat’s familiar items — bed, litter tray, toys, and water. Let them rest, eat, and explore slowly. After such a long trip, calm familiarity is the best comfort you can offer.

Where to Keep Your Cat When Using a House Moving Company?

If you are hiring house removal company, it’s vital to keep your cat safe and calm. Cats can easily slip outside unnoticed or become frightened by unfamiliar people and noise.

Create a Closed-Off Safe Room

Choose a quiet room — preferably one that won’t be used during loading — and turn it into a “cat-safe zone.”

• Move your cat’s essentials inside: bed, food, litter tray, toys, and water.

• Keep the door closed and put a clear “Do Not Enter – Cat Inside” sign for the moving team.

• Play gentle background sounds (like soft music) to block the noise of moving activity.

Alternative Option: Temporary Boarding or Pet Sitting

If your home layout doesn’t allow for a completely closed-off room, consider boarding your cat in a trusted cattery or asking a friend or pet sitter to care for them during the moving day. This keeps them stress-free and avoids any escape risks.

Once Movers Leave

When the removers have finished, let your cat out of the safe room to explore slowly and reintroduce familiar scents around the house. Keeping their environment calm and familiar will help them feel secure even after the commotion.

FAQs About Moving House with a Cat

How long before a cat feels at home after moving?
Most cats settle within 2–4 weeks, depending on their temperament and how consistent their new routine is.

Should I let my cat out at the new house right away?
No. Wait at least 3 weeks so your cat bonds with the new territory first.

What if my cat stops eating after the move?
Mild appetite loss is common for 1–2 days. If it lasts longer, contact a vet.

How can I calm a stressed cat?
Use pheromone diffusers, gentle reassurance, and familiar objects. Avoid sudden noises or changes.

Can I use calming sprays or supplements?
Yes — vet-approved calming sprays, collars, or treats can help sensitive cats relax.

Should I keep my indoor cat inside forever after moving?
Yes. Indoor cats should remain indoors — just ensure plenty of stimulation and playtime.

How do I stop my cat from running away?
Supervise outdoor time, ensure doors and windows are closed, and keep feeding routines regular.

Can I hire pet transport services?
Yes, there are professional pet movers in the UK who specialise in safe, stress-free animal transport.

Do I need to tell my vet I’ve moved?
Absolutely. Update your records and microchip so your cat can be returned if they go missing.

What should I pack for my cat’s travel bag?
Food, water, litter, wipes, bedding, vet papers, carrier, and a towel or blanket that smells like home.

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