Pets are incredibly precious to people, and it’s important that your pet settles well in your new home. Cats can be one of the most difficult pets to move. They are famously creatures of habit, and can strongly resist a new environment. They can also get stressed during the actual moving process. However these tips should help you move your cat to your new home without any issues. If you’d like any additional advice don’t hesitate to get in touch. In our years working as a Manchester removals company we’ve helped many families with cats, although we just move your possessions and leave your pets in your own capable hands.

Look after your cat in the car

While dogs usually enjoy travelling in a car, cats can be incredibly stressed out by being inside a moving vehicle. They should be kept inside a cat carrier at all times. This will keep them calm, and will also prevent any accidents. The last thing you want is a cat climbing all over you when you’ve got your hands on the wheel. Make sure the cat carrier is secured to the seat using a seatbelt, to stop it from rattling around as the car moves. Nothing worries a cat more.

If your cat is a particularly bad traveller, it might be a good idea to ask your vet for a mild sedative. In most cases this won’t be necessary, but it can be a good idea if you have a particularly distressed cat and you are going on a particularly long journey.

Once you arrive at the new home

At this point, your cat will probably be desperate to get out and explore the surroundings. You should let the cat out in one of the rooms of the house, closing the door behind you. This gives the cat space to move around but keeps it out of the way while you are moving furniture into your home. Of course you should make sure the cat has access to a litter tray, food and water. You should also use Make sure the cat can’t escape. Familiarize yourself with the doors and windows, and ensure they are latched.  Remember that cats can be very adept escape artists, especially in unfamiliar surroundings.

At the end of the day, once all of your possessions are moved in, you can let the cat out and allow it to start exploring the new home. However don’t let it go outside just yet.

After you’ve settled in

You shouldn’t allow your cat to go outside for at least two weeks. It has to take a lot of time to get used to the area, and imprint its scent on the home. This will help it feel more at home in new territory.

Initially, go outside for a short while with the cat, then encourage it to come back inside by offering it food. You can gradually work up to longer and longer periods of time, until the cat is eventually fully settled in your new area.