Today I’d like to talk about moving cats from one place to another against his or her will. I mean, what cat would consent to packing up and moving into new quarters unless it was their idea—the food’s better across the street, she’s tired of the household dog bossing her around, or the new baby has edged him out of the prime spot as top cat?
Most of us have moved and the experience can be rather daunting when there are animals involved. Cats, especially, like things to stay the same. Oh, they thrill at something new to play with, but don’t make too many changes or they’re liable to revolt.
What are some of the hazards of moving with cats? Cats find their way out of the new house and try to go back to the old one. It’s not uncommon for cats to get out and become confused and lost in a new neighborhood. Cats have been known to escape from the car during the trip to the new place. A cat might show his opinion of the move by engaging in naughty behavior. Can you see that the primary problem at play here is generally stress? The cat is confused, afraid, nervous.
A friend of mind recently moved with her two cats. Knowing that it might upset them, she 
spoke to her vet and he suggested she use a Feliway plug-in mist or spray to help calm the cats. She said, “The night before we moved our two tuxedos, we plugged in the misting Feliway in the room where they would be staying for the move. We also recommend spraying the baseboards a few times with Feliway spray.” She said she likes to spray a squirt into their carriers before the move, as well.
She has moved before and she’s learned it’s wise to have a room ready for the cats to hang out in the new place before moving them. They move in their kitty condo, beds, and some of their favorite toys, then spray a little Bliss Mist (a catnip spray) before moving the cats in. They recommend bringing the cats last, once everything else has been delivered. My friend said her two cats were pretty content with the move this time, which also makes the move more pleasant for the humans. This is her cat, Mouse, checking out the new neighborhood.
If your cats are accustomed to going outside, keep them in the new house for a week or until they seem to be relaxed in their new surroundings. By the way, don’t forget to check that the windows and screens in the new place are secure. For the first several times your cat goes outside, you should accompany him. Use a leash as an added safety measure. Walk with him as he explores the new yard.
Here are some sites that might help you make your next move smooth for your cat.
http://pets.webmd.com/cats/guide/moving-new-home-cat
http://www.catbehaviorassociates.com/moving-to-a-new-home-with-your-cat/
http://www.wikihow.com/Move-with-a-Cat
