You are so excited! You are moving into a new home, changing apartments, or perhaps returning to your parent’s house. Whatever the reason, your move will be stressful for your cat. Cats do not like change - at least most cats. And, unlike dogs, who view home as where you are, cats have strong associations with a geographic place and feel anxious and uprooted when taken to a new location. Your anxiety and move preparations will add to your cat’s concern.

Whether you are packing yourself or having movers, it is a good idea to board your cat during this time. Not only will the cat become anxious seeing everything it knows being removed, but there will be open doors and possibly strangers around. Many cats have left home because of their anxiety over these changes. You can only imagine the added stress to you of trying to find your cat while everything else related to the move is going on.

Unless you will be keeping your current veterinarian after you move, ask your vet for current medical records and a recommendation of a vet that will be close to your new location. Be aware that States and localities have different requirements for vaccinations, so make sure your cat is up-to-date on what is needed for its new home. Call your new vet and introduce your cat. Ask about boarding while the other end of your move - the unpacking - will be going on. It is even more important that your cat be protected when first in his new location because he or she may run away and try to return to his old, comfortable domicile.

Next, when you are physically moving the cat, be sure that he or she has identification tags. It is best to take kitty in the car to the new location if at all possible. Airplane travel has many potential issues for kitty. Place the cat in a traveling crate while he is in the car. Do not let it roam around the inside of the vehicle while you are driving or risk having it jump out when you stop for gasoline or a bathroom break.

Your cat may be too anxious to eat, drink or use the litter box during the trip, but it is best to be prepared with food, water, toys, litter, and treats. Once safely in your new location, keep your pet indoors for at least two weeks until it associates "home" with the new location. Give your pet time to investigate the new digs and establish his dominance. It is best if you give your cat familiar things - like his bed and toys in a secure area of the residence. Be sure to be patient and give your pet lots of attention and reassurance while it is adjusting.

Before you know it, the transition will be over and you and your pet will be happily settled in your new home.

Posted by Barbara.