Moving house can be stressful for everyone, especially for your cat, who might not understand what’s happening. Cats are creatures of habit, and a change in environment can cause anxiety and distress. However, with a bit of preparation, you can make the move easier for your furry friend. Here’s a guide to help you get your cat ready for a move and pack efficiently for a smooth transition.

1. Create a Safe Space While Packing

Cats can become anxious when they see their familiar surroundings change. When packing your home, especially noisy and busy rooms, designate a safe, quiet space for your cat. Choose a room they’re comfortable in and fill it with their favourite toys, bedding, and food. Keeping your cat in this space while you pack will help minimise their stress.

Be sure to visit them regularly, giving them reassurance and affection. Make this the last room you pack up, so your cat feels comfortable until the very end of the moving process.

2. Keep Your Cat’s Routine Stable

Cats are sensitive to changes in their routine, so try to keep things as normal as possible in the lead-up to the move. Feed them at their regular times, play with them as usual, and stick to your normal schedule.

If your cat is used to sleeping in a particular bed or playing with certain toys, make sure those items are available up until the move. Maintaining consistency will help reduce your cat’s anxiety during this transitional period.

3. Prepare a Cat Carrier for Moving Day

If your cat isn’t used to being in a carrier, it’s a good idea to familiarise them with it before moving day. Leave the carrier out in a familiar space and encourage your cat to explore it by placing treats, toys, or their bedding inside. The goal is to make the carrier a positive and comforting space rather than a source of stress.

On moving day, transport your cat in the carrier to ensure their safety. It will prevent them from running away or getting hurt during the chaos of moving. You can place a towel over the carrier to create a calming, darkened space, which will help keep your cat calm.

4. Use Hire A Mover for a Stress-Free Move

To minimise the disruption to your cat during the move, consider hiring professional movers like Hire A Mover in Sydney. With their expertise, you can focus on keeping your cat calm while the professionals handle the heavy lifting.

Hire A Mover can also help you move efficiently, reducing the amount of time your cat spends in an unfamiliar environment. If you’re concerned about the safety of your belongings or need assistance with packing, services like Hire A Packer and Hire A Box can ensure that everything is packed securely and efficiently, giving you more time to attend to your pet.

5. Pack Your Cat’s Essentials Separately

On moving day, you’ll want to have easy access to your cat’s essentials, so pack a separate bag for them. This should include food, water, litter, a litter box, toys, bedding, and any medications your cat may need.

This “cat essentials bag” will make the first few days in your new home easier, as you’ll have everything on hand to help your cat settle in. Place their food and water bowls, as well as their litter box, in a quiet, easily accessible area in your new home to provide a sense of familiarity and security.

6. Prepare Your New Home for Your Cat

Before bringing your cat to your new home, set up a room specifically for them. This room should contain their essentials: food, water, litter, and favourite bedding and toys. Allow your cat to explore this room first, gradually letting them venture into other parts of the house as they become more comfortable.

Cats can be overwhelmed by a new environment, so introducing them to their new surroundings gradually will make the transition smoother.

7. Give Your Cat Time to Adjust

After the move, give your cat time to adjust to their new surroundings. Some cats will explore right away, while others may be more cautious and prefer to hide for a few days. Don’t force your cat to explore before they’re ready. Let them take things at their own pace.

Maintain their usual routine as much as possible, and give them plenty of attention and reassurance. Over time, your cat will start to feel at home in their new environment.

8. Consider Using a Pheromone Diffuser

If your cat is particularly anxious, you may want to use a pheromone diffuser in both your old and new home. These diffusers release calming pheromones that mimic the scent cats naturally produce to mark their territory, helping them feel more secure.

You can plug the diffuser into a power socket in the rooms your cat spends the most time in. This can help reduce stress and make the transition to a new home easier for your pet.

Conclusion

Moving with a cat in Sydney can be stressful, but with the right preparation, you can make the process much easier for both you and your furry companion. By maintaining a routine, providing a safe space, and using services like Hire A Mover, you can focus on keeping your cat calm while the professionals handle the logistics of the move. With these tips, you’ll ensure that your cat adjusts to their new home smoothly and comfortably.