You’ve signed the papers, packed the boxes, and updated your shipping address in Amazon.
You’re moving.
There are a million things to take care of when you’re moving to a new house, but the most important thing you’ll need to do is prepare your cats. After all, it’s a huge change for them too!
Moving is overwhelming (trust me, as someone getting ready to head to a new place—I get it), which is why I wanted to put together this checklist of things to do to make sure you and your cats are set up for success before moving day.
Ready to get into it?
Here you go:
1. Take Them for a Vet Checkup
Even if your cat seems purrfectly healthy, it’s a good idea to schedule a wellness exam at their vet in the months leading up to your move. The vet can give them a good checkup and make sure they’re in top shape for the inevitable stress to come.
Plus, by establishing care for your cats with a vet ahead of time, you’ll be able to call with questions during the transition or get a fast appointment if your cats get sick during the move. Hopefully neither will happen—but it’s always best to be prepared!
2. Make Sure Microchips are Updated
A new address means you need to update your cat’s microchip! Follow the proper steps to get their chip updated before you move, that way the new information is already there just in case your kitty gets loose.
And if your cat isn’t already microchipped, make sure to ask your vet about that at their appointment! Even if your cat is indoor only (like they should be), they need to have a microchip in case of an emergency.
3. Give Them a Safe Space During the Transition
Set up sanctuaries in both your old home and new home for your kitty during the big move. This can be a favorite bedroom or simply a bathroom decked out with litter boxes, food, water, and toys. Just make sure the door latches properly so that they can’t get out on their own.
If you’re having family, friends, or professionals help you move, put a sign on the door of your cat’s room letting everyone know not to open it. You can also consider boarding your kitty for the day at your vet’s office if you’re worried about them accidentally getting out or becoming too stressed.
4. Get Their Favorite Food and Treats
My cats’ love languages are FOOD. When they’re stressed, worried, or scared, food brings them comfort. Your kitty very well may be the same. During your move, make sure your cats have plenty of their favorite food and fresh water always available.
And when you get to your new place for the first time, mark the occasion with their favorite treat. This will help them start to form a positive association with their new home. Plus, everyone deserves a reward after moving!
5. Keep Their Routine Consistent as Much as Possible
Cats are creatures of habit. They like to play at the same time, eat at the same time—mine even use the litter box at the same time! Moving can disrupt anyone’s routine, but try your best to keep your cat on schedule.
Make a point to feed them, play with them, and cuddle them as regularly as you can. The less their routine changes, the less stressed they’ll become as they watch the house get packed up and prepped for the move.
Most Importantly: Give Them Lots of Love, Patience, and Time
Change is hard for everyone, especially pets. It’s okay that they’re a little scared or skeptical of their new environment and all of the chaos going on around them. To help them feel comfortable, always make sure they’re surrounded by love, calm energy, and LOTS of treats.
Over time, they’ll come around and start to feel happy in their new home. Don’t push them or expect them to be themselves right away. A little patience will go a long way in helping you both have the best transition pawsible.
Best wishes to you and your cats on your big move!
Pawsitive Purrpose 
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