Cats are creatures of habit and don’t like change much. They typically don’t respond well to stress and unfamiliar situations. Long-distance moving with a cat is much different than moving across town. Your cat will be in a moving vehicle or airplane for an extended amount of time, they will likely be exposed to bumps, loud noises, with unfamiliar surroundings along the way which all of which can be very stressful for a furry feline. It’s normal to be concerned about the well being of your tiny family member. Excalibur Moving & Storage has some recommendations to make this move as smooth of a transition as possible for your furry feline!
What Do You Need to Do Before You Move?
Visit your veterinarian – Visit your kitties health provider for a check-up to ensure your kitty is in good health and all of its vaccines are up to date. If you have not yet had your cat microchipped, now would be a great time to do so. If for some unfortunate reason your cat came up missing during the move or shortly after, having a microchip will increase your chances of getting your kitty back! Ask for up-to-date shot records and a health certificate. Some states require proof of a current rabies vaccine before you may cross state lines.
Gather kitty’s personal belongings – Some people want to get new things for the move. This is not recommended, keeping the usual items your cat is already used to will aid in keeping stress levels down. Your cat’s bed or blanket that smells like home will make kitty feel comforted in times of stress. Set aside his food, bowls, medications, favorite toys, and a disposable litter box with flushable litter are recommended because they are easier to clean while traveling. If you have a cat carrier or a kennel, this is the safest place for your cat to travel. Allowing them access to your vehicle can result in panic and potty accidents along the way. Keeping your cat confined with his favorite bed will help him or her to feel safe and secure. If this will be your cat’s first time in a kennel, keep it out a few weeks prior to the move and put their favorite toys or bed into it so they can become familiar with the space and explore it first.
Introduce moving materials – Before the packing begins and the craziness ensues, set out boxes, packing paper and other supplies so your kitty can get used to having them around and they will seem more familiar to them. Some cats love playing with boxes and packing paper! Encourage this behavior to lower stress levels. When moving day comes, it is safest to keep your pet calm in a secured area away from the noise, so they don’t become overwhelmed with what’s going on.
Practice car rides before the big move – If your cat is unfamiliar with car rides, as most cats are. Take your kitty for a few rides before the big move to get them familiar with the motion and sounds.
Find a vet at your new destination- Researching a new veterinarian before you move is a smart idea, if there happened to be an accident along the way, it is better to be prepared than to search at the last second.
What to Consider when Making a Big Move?
When you’re on the move and ready to be on your way. Be sure your kitty’s kennel is clear of anything that may be a choking hazard and do not leave food and water in the cage during the move. Wait until rest stops or your hotel room to feed and water kitty. Ensure kitty has his bed or blanket for the move for comfort and keep the radio down so there isn’t too much noise. If you’re flying, try to bring your kitty as carry-on to reduce stress instead of putting them into the cargo area. After you have arrived at your final destination, be sure to keep kitty in a secure location until the noise dies down. Then slowly introduce them to their new space with their familiar belongings.
Local & Long Distance, Residential & Commercial Moving in Los Angeles County, CA & Beyond
Excalibur Moving & Storage can help make the rest of your move a pleasurable experience by taking the hard work off your hands. Give us a call today to schedule your big move!
