Cat Guide

• • Cat and kids
  • Your cat's language
  • Finding a lost pet
  • Good habits
  • Neutering - the facts
  • Settling your cat into her new home
  • Spraying - the facts
  • Taking care of older cats

The key to a smooth move is preparation. Your cat has probably invested a great deal of effort marking out her territory at the old place and so isn’t going to be too pleased with a change. Don’t forget to seek out a new vet if you are moving to a different town and update pet insurance details.

Moving
Check that the property is suitable, some flats have covenants restricting pets. So you may need to think about re-homing your cat. Prepare a room in advance of the move date with all her equipment so she can sit out the day in comfort. Check that all collar tag details (if she has one) are changed to the new address. Only prepare a light meal so avoiding potential car sickness. Make sure that the cat flap in the old house is shut tight to prevent a neighbourhood cat wondering in and getting trapped.

Settling in
Cats take at least two weeks to settle in to their new surroundings, so take things gradually. As before, set aside a secure room just for her and keep your pet indoors. Start off by carrying her outside and keep her in your sight until you are confident she knows her way round.