Moving can be stressful—for both you and your feline companion. Outdoor cats are particularly sensitive to change, so careful planning is key to ensure a smooth transition. Here are 12 tips to make moving with your outdoor cat safer and less stressful.

1. Research Vaccination & Legal Requirements

    Before moving, research the pet laws in your new location. Some areas have specific vaccination requirements or regulations for pets. Ensure your cat’s vaccinations are up-to-date, and if needed, obtain a pet passport for travel. Staying compliant will make the move smoother for both you and your cat.

    2. Pre-Move Planning: Transfer Familiar Scents

      Cats rely heavily on scent to recognize territory. A few days before moving, rub a towel or cloth on your cat and then on surfaces in the new home—walls, furniture, and floors. This scent transfer helps your cat feel more at home when they arrive.

      3. Restrict Your Cat’s Movements

        A few days before moving day, limit your cat’s roaming. With movers and furniture being shifted around, your cat could easily escape. Keeping them confined to familiar areas reduces stress and prevents sudden disappearances.

        4. Introduce Your Cat to the Carrier

          A carrier is the safest way to transport your cat. Make it inviting with a favorite blanket, toy, or a piece of clothing that smells like you. Leave it open in their favorite spots for a few days so they can explore it at their own pace.

          5. Microchip Your Cat

            Even if your cat wears a collar, a microchip provides a permanent form of identification. Moving is a high-risk time for pets to go missing, and a microchip ensures they can be returned safely if lost.

            6. Set Up a Temporary Cat Room

              At your new home, prepare a single room with all your cat’s essentials—litter, food, water, and bedding. Keeping them confined for the first few days helps them adjust without becoming overwhelmed by the new environment.

              7. Move Your Cat Last

                To minimize stress, move your cat after the bulk of the household items have been transferred. This way, you can place them in their designated cat room right away and help them feel secure in their new surroundings.

                Introduce the New Environment Slowly

                8. Introduce the New Environment Slowly

                  Once your cat is comfortable in their temporary room, gradually allow them to explore the rest of the house. Keep doors and windows closed, and monitor their behavior. It may take weeks for your outdoor cat to fully adjust.

                  9. Leave Contact Details with New Neighbors

                    Outdoor cats can be curious wanderers. Share your contact information with neighbors so they can alert you if your cat gets lost or attempts to return to the old home.

                    10. Prepare for Accidents

                      Stress from moving can cause cats to eliminate outside the litter box. Keep paper towels, waste bags, and enzymatic cleaners handy. Be patient as your cat adapts to the new setup.

                      11. Keep Your Cat Indoors Initially

                        For the first two weeks, keep your cat inside. Familiar sights, smells, and routines will help them adjust. This also reduces the risk of injury or escape during the chaotic unpacking phase.

                        12. Consider Supervised Outdoor Time

                          Once your cat is settled, allow outdoor access under supervision. Leash training or a secure cat enclosure (“catio”) is ideal. This keeps your cat safe while still enjoying the outdoors.

                          Special Considerations for Feral Cats

                          Feral cats often won’t adapt to a move due to their wariness around humans. If you’ve been feeding a feral cat, consider leaving them in their original location and ask neighbors to continue feeding them. Trying to move feral cats can cause unnecessary stress and is generally not recommended.

                          Planning a move with a cat can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, it doesn’t have to be. At Movers Not Shakers, we specialize in helping families in New York move safely and efficiently—even when pets are part of the plan. From careful handling of your furry friends to managing all the logistics of moving day, we make sure both you and your cat feel comfortable and secure. Contact us today to learn how we can make your next move stress-free for your whole family—including your beloved pets!