Steps to follow when moving long-distance with your cat.
A house without a cat is just a house, but when you bring in your pet, it becomes a home. We all like to provide a good home to our beloved fur babies. What happens if we have to move, especially long-distance? This process is stressful enough for a human, let alone for a pet. That is why we put together some steps to follow when moving long-distance with your cat. Make sure to keep reading if you want to ensure a stress-free process!
Making an appointment with a vet
Make sure your cat is healthy enough to be moved
Before the move, plan everything in detail. Make sure you have enough time to prepare yourself and your cat for the process. Cats are very territorial, and changing their environment can cause a bit of a shock. That is why one of the first things you need to do is schedule an appointment with your cat’s veterinarian.
Make sure that your cat is healthy and that it is in good shape to travel. Your vet can probably offer you some advice and help you choose what is best for your cat. For example, in some cases, owners choose to sedate their little friends. Sometimes it can be for the best. It is less stressful for the cat and for the owner.
If you plan to travel by plane, make sure your cat has all the vaccines. Also, now is a good time to get a microchip. It is better to be prepared in case the unexpected happens. Put a collar on your cat and add your phone number. Unable to take your cat with you on a pre-move trip use our Cat Sitting service.
Best Carrier Long-Distance Move
We all know that cats love boxes. Unfortunately, they don’t love moving that much. But, when you combine them, something good might come out. If you can offer your pet friend a safe “box” during travel, that might help reduce stress levels.
Make sure to choose a big enough carrier. You want to give your cat enough space to turn and sit comfortably. It should be well designed and safe for travel. Also, make sure it is well ventilated.
Bring the carrier into the home early. You want your friend to get used to its smell, size, and shape. Place it in a quiet space in the house and put something soft and cozy inside. A blanket that the cat likes to sit on would be great. Leave the carrier open and bring some food and water close to it. Your kitty will probably start snooping around. If it might help, use some catnip spray inside. That will make the carrier attractive for sure.
Getting your cat accustomed to the car
After getting familiar with the carrier, one of the next steps to follow when moving long-distance with your cat is to get her used to the car. Therefore, try to take your furry friend to the car every day in the carrier. Put the carrier in the back seat and stay close. Comfort your kitty if it starts to look distressed. Talk to her and pet her through the gate of the carrier.
Doing this for a couple of days will help her familiarize herself with the new environment. When she looks comfortable enough while being in the car, you can start going on short trips. Drive around the neighborhood, to the shop and back, and watch how she reacts. This could also make it possible for you to travel with your cat in the future. What could be better than being able to go on adventures with your furry best friend?
Everything you need for the long-distance move
Bring your cat’s favorite toy to help her stay calm.
Make a list of things to have on hand on the day of the move. Pack everything for your cat separately from your belongings. Try to think of all the things that your cat needs and write them on paper.
- Food, water, and bowls. Use the bowls you have if they are good for travel. Otherwise, get some more suitable ones, since cats need plenty of water. Your little friend will also need to eat while on the road, so prepare some treats.
- Travel litter box. Get a litter box that fits in the car, or even better, in the carrier. Let your cat use the new litter box a couple of times before the move. Also, it is a good idea to have puppy pads on the bottom of the carrier. Some cats can be incontinent if stressed.
- Medication. If your cat is on treatment, it has to take medicine as on any typical day. Make sure you have the pills at hand and respect the schedule. Also, you could have sedatives with you in case your cat is not coping well enough.
- Papers. Whenever you are traveling with your pet, always have their papers with you.; these are documents that prove vaccination and general health condition. Research the regulations of the state you are moving to. They can differ from state to state.
- Familiar objects. To create a cozier and more relaxing place for your cat, bring items that they like. Their favorite toy, a blanket they sit on, or their soft bed. Having familiar smelling items around will keep your kitty calmer.
Getting help when moving long-distance with a cat
As we mentioned before, moving is a stressful process. Some animals have problems with changing their environment and adapting to a new one. That is why, when it comes to relocating with a pet, the stress level can be doubled.
When you want to make a long-distance move with your pet a success, try to learn as much as possible about it. You can do some research on how to help your furry friend cope better and look for specialized moving companies. Letting professionals handle the hard work will leave you time to focus on the well-being of your beloved pet and start thinking about your life together in your new home.
Things to do on the day of the move
Early in the morning, put your cat in a quiet room. All the fuss around the house might cause more stress. In addition, add notes on the doors announcing that there is a cat in the house. You wouldn’t want your little one to get lost around the house, or worse, escape outside.
Place your kitty in the carrier on time and let her get used to the space again. Give her a light meal and make sure she drinks enough water. Don’t listen to overly loud music in the car, and try to stay calm at all times. As you know, our pets sense when we are stressed. Also, never let the cat out of the carrier while you are driving. It can cause serious problems.
Travel Long-Distance During the Day
Make your new house a home by bringing your best friend with you
Plan your travel during the day. Cats tend to be calmer and sleep more. Make stops to ensure everything is OK and to feed and hydrate your beloved. Check if the litter box is dirty or if your cat needs to use it. Keep your kitty happy as much as you can. Talk to her while on the road and offer her cuddles when making stops.
Conclusion
A cross-country relocation with your pet doesn’t need to be a burden. It can be an excellent moment to bond and gain their trust. If you pay attention to some steps to follow when moving long-distance with your cat, you will discover that you can have a wonderful journey together.
