Great advice from Britannia Movers International

During all the last minute arrangements you have to make when moving house it is just possible that your cat’s welfare might not be top of your priority list. 

Here is some good advice from Britannia Movers International to keep your cat happy on moving day and make sure he doesn’t scarper off to the old house as soon as you arrive.

On moving day

Your cat could easily become distressed when a team of removal men arrive and start moving everything with which he is familiar. So before the chaps arrive, put Tiddles in a cat carrier, with a little food, in the smallest bedroom in the house.  Put a notice on the door telling the crew to leave that room until last.  If your cat is of a nervous disposition, you could use a plug in pheromone diffuser (such as Feliway) in the room to help him relax.

On the road

Don’t feed your cat just before you leave the house.  Take the cat out of his temporary confinement to let the movers finish the job.  Then put the cat carrier securely in your car ready for the journey.  Do not let him travel in the removal van. Although there have been many stories of stowaways, it’s not a great idea for either the cat or the furniture.

The new house

If you have moved locally it’s possible that your cat will return to his old hunting grounds and follow the old trails back to the previous house.  If you think this is likely, tell the new occupants and ask them to call you if he turns up.  Tell them not to feed him no matter how fed up he looks.

Don’t let your cat outside for at least two weeks. Help him to feel secure by rubbing a soft cloth around his face and spreading the scent around the house by rubbing the cloth on doorways and furniture.

When you do let him venture out, open the door and let him choose to explore – don’t carry him.  Don’t feed him before he goes: if he’s hungry he won’t stray far. Leave the door open so he can easily get back in when he’s ready.  Chase any strange cats away: he’ll need lots of help to establish his territory in the new area. A water spray is the way recommended by animal sanctuaries.  Try to maintain the same routine you had at the old house. Make sure he has an identification collar with your phone number on and, if he’s not microchipped, now’s the time to do it.

Moving house can be a stressful time for everybody.  Follow these guidelines and you will help make sure it’s as easy as it can be for your feline friend.