Moving home with cats can cause a great deal of disruption for them, since cats are territorial animals that become deeply attached to their environment and do not adapt easily to change. If you are moving house and you have feline companions at home, here are some tips to help everything go as smoothly as possible.
It is important to keep in mind both the general tips for moving house and the specific considerations for relocating these animals. Below you will find some practical pointers.
How to move house with cats
If you own a cat, you will know that they are extremely sensitive to change at home — they notice even when you add or rearrange a piece of furniture, so a full house move represents a huge upheaval for them. It is up to us to help them manage this transition as well as possible.
With that in mind, let us look at what you can do before, during and after the move.
Before the move
Before the move begins, set aside a dedicated room in the house — clear it of furniture and fragile objects, and fill it with your cat's belongings: a bed, scratching post, food and water bowls, and so on. Spend time with your cat in that room, and occasionally leave them there alone with the door closed, so that they come to see it as a safe haven. This will be their sanctuary room on moving day, away from the noise, the bustle and any unfamiliar faces. You should also get them used to the carrier you will use to transport them. That way, when the time comes, they will not be afraid to get inside.
On moving day
While the move is under way, your cat should remain in their sanctuary room. It helps to leave a television or radio switched on to help mask the noise. Pop in from time to time to reassure them that everything is fine, and offer a treat or a toy to make the experience a positive one. Move your cat last of all, carrying them in the carrier they are already comfortable in, and head straight to the new home if possible. If the journey is long, make sure you can offer water and a small amount of food — though not too much, in case they suffer from travel sickness.
After the move
The most important thing is not to rush the adjustment process. Settling into a new home is different for every cat, and each one has their own pace. On average, it takes about a week for a cat to feel fully at home. You can support them simply by trying to maintain the same routines you followed in your previous home.
The downsides of moving house with your cats
Cats do not cope well with changes to their surroundings. Some are particularly sensitive and may even lose their appetite. If the process is not handled carefully, they may develop behavioural problems such as fearfulness, anxiety and aggressive reactions. A cat can even become physically unwell as a result of extreme stress and anxiety — common symptoms include digestive issues and hair loss.
But a well-planned move with cats does not have to be a negative experience. Embrace this change together with your cat and welcome them both into this exciting new chapter and new home.
Frequently asked questions about moving with cats
Why do cats find moving harder than dogs?
Cats are territorial animals with highly fixed routines: a sudden change of environment — new smells, sounds and layouts — is extremely stressful for them. Signs of stress can include hiding for days, refusing to eat, vomiting, marking new areas with urine, withdrawing from contact, or becoming aggressive. Patience and careful planning are absolutely essential.
How do I prepare my cat for the move?
2–3 weeks before: place the carrier in your cat's usual area with food inside to create a positive association; spray calming pheromones (Feliway) in common areas. 1 week before: start packing gradually so your cat gets used to the visual disruption without acute stress. The day before: a routine preventive vet check-up is advisable if your cat is particularly anxious.
What do I do with my cat on moving day?
The IDEAL solution: keep your cat out of the house entirely. Arrange for them to spend the day at a specialist cat boarding facility or at the home of a trusted friend. If that is not possible, confine your cat to a specific room (a small bathroom works well) with food, water, a litter tray, a familiar blanket and their carrier. Keep the room isolated from the noise — closed door, no removal staff entering. Your cat will get through it, but will be under significant stress.
How do I introduce my cat to the new home?
Use a gradual approach: first confine your cat to one specific room (their "safe room") with everything they need — food, water, litter tray, familiar blanket and toys, and an open carrier. Let them explore just that room for 2–3 days. Then open the door so they can explore the rest of the house at their own pace. If you have Feliway pheromone spray, apply it to common areas. Avoid having visitors during the first 2 weeks.
How long does it take a cat to settle into a new home?
On average: 2–4 weeks to feel comfortable, 1–3 months for full integration. Some cats settle in days (the more sociable ones), while others — particularly territorial or older cats — may need up to 6 months. Keep to strict routines: fixed mealtimes, daily play, and minimising disruption from unfamiliar noises. If your cat is still very stressed after 6 weeks or stops eating for more than 3 days, consult a vet. More about pets: moving with dogs.
