How to move house with a cat: 6 essential tips

If you’re wondering how to move house with cats, it’s important to plan ahead, protect your cat’s sense of territory, and give them the time and space they need to adjust. Here’s how to ensure moving home with cats is as stress-free as possible.

Cats are naturally territorial and feel most comfortable on familiar ground. Leaving this behind can be stressful, especially for older cats or those who spend a lot of time outdoors. Some cats may even try to find their old home. 

To avoid that, here are six essential steps you can take when moving house with cats.

Can you move house with a cat? Absolutely! But it’s a lot less stressful for everyone if you plan ahead. 

As soon as your house move is confirmed, start thinking about how to keep things consistent for your cat, such as keeping their schedule and routine as normal as possible.

You can also prepare for the move by:

• Ordering new ID tags for your cat’s collar
• Checking your cat’s vaccinations are up to date 
• Researching and choosing a vet near your new home 
• Leaving your cat’s carrier out for a few days before the move, so they get used to its presence
• Making a note to update your microchip details with your new address once you’ve moved.

A week or two before the move, set up a neutral, calm room in your current house where your cat can retreat to with minimal disruption. Place their litter tray, bed and food bowls in the room, and gradually introduce this space to your cat. Sprinkle some catnip or treats around to encourage them to explore. 

On moving day, leave your cat in the room with doors and windows closed. If possible, feed them at least three hours before moving to reduce the chance of travel sickness. 

As soon as you get access to your new house, create another safe room for your cat there. Aim for somewhere that’s quiet, warm and escape-proof. A spare bedroom or upstairs bathroom is ideal. Put notices on the doors so everyone knows your cat is in the room and no one accidentally lets them out.

Cats rely heavily on scents, so familiar smells can help them feel safe and secure. Pheromone sprays, diffusers and plug-in devices help create a reassuring environment. Try spraying your cat’s carrier before travel, and adding a diffuser to the room in your new home where your cat will be staying. 

To help your cat feel at home in the new house, gently wipe a cloth over their chin, then wipe it over the doors and furniture in your new home.

Don’t expect your cat to settle into their new home right away. Give them time to get used to the new environment, and don’t put pressure on them. Keep your cat in their dedicated safe room for a few days, or until they start showing signs of relaxation.

Once they’re ready, open the door and allow them to explore the rest of the house at their own pace. Try opening other rooms up one at a time, and don’t be surprised if your cat hides or runs back to their safe room.

Older cats can take more time to feel safe in a new environment, especially if they have cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), which can lead to confusion, disorientation and anxiety. 

If you notice signs of stress, such as spraying, loss of appetite or overgrooming, speak to your vet for advice. If you have cat insurance with Petplan, you can speak to a professional using our Pet Expert Chat feature – log in to your My Petplan account to get started.

How do cats cope with moving house? If you create the right environment, they can adjust relatively quickly. 

Keeping your cat’s routine as consistent as possible can help them feel less stressed. Feed small, regular meals and spend plenty of time together. A quick play session or a little focused attention can help keep your bond strong. 

Try to keep the environment calm yet stimulating. If possible, avoid decorating or loud building work until your cat shows signs of feeling more relaxed. Make your new home as cat-friendly as possible by adding things like perching areas and hiding places. 

Provide indoor entertainment to help your cat burn off energy and keep their brain active. A puzzle feeder encourages your cat to work for their food, while short play sessions keep them physically active.

If you’re considering how to move house with outdoor cats, remember to keep them indoors for at least three weeks after your move. This gives them time to get used to their new environment. 

When you do let them outside for the first time, do so for just a short period of time and right before a meal, so you know they’ll come back for their food. Step outside and encourage your cat to follow you, without carrying them, and supervise them at all times. Keep the door open so they can run back inside at any point. 

If the first outing goes well, work up to longer supervised stretches until you’re happy they feel confident and comfortable on their new home turf. Make sure there are some hiding places close to the house, too – a plant pot near the cat flap, or garden furniture they can jump on to, for example.

Make sure your cat’s ID tag has your new details on it and update your address with the microchip company. You could also add a GPS tracker to your cat’s collar for the first few months, so you can check exactly where they are. 

With the right preparation, moving house with your cat doesn’t have to be stressful. Use the tips above to plan ahead and let your cat settle into their new home while keeping their routine as normal as possible.