Don’t forget to organise all you cats items so that once you arrive at your new home you can quickly set an area up inside for your cat.
Moving a cat to a new country can be a stressful experience not only for ourselves but for our furry little friends as well. Having a plan in place will make the first few days of been at your new location easier for both of you so here are our suggestions to help settle your cat into their new environment.
Plan their adventure
Firstly do some investigation on the rules and regulations that are in the place at your new destination. Some areas require cats to be microchipped or have a particular type of vaccination, some require cats to be in at a certain time of night. Therefore, finding out this information before you arrive at your new home means you will be fully prepared and know what to expect once you reach your destination.
Don’t forget to organise all you cats items so that once you arrive at your new home you can quickly set an area up inside for your cat. Items you may like to prepare earlier include the cat’s bed, toys, and food and water bowl. This will reduce your cat’s anxiety with their new surrounds.
If you have a super anxious cat, we recommend talking to your veterinarian before you travel.
Your cat has arrived at their destination.
Don’t just let your cat free roam around the inside and garden of your house. Cats need to ease into their new environment gently and slowly so they do not get scared and try and run away (or to try and find their old house).
Settling your cat into their new home
Once you have reached your new home some ways to help your cat settle in is by:
- Remaining calm and patient and been relaxed around your pet reduces the chance of them getting frightened by their new surroundings.
- If you have a cat that gets anxious and stressed easily try using a pheromone diffuser to release a scent that can help calm and relax them.
- On the first day place them in a room with furniture or items that they are familiar with. This will assist them to feel less anxious about their new environment.
- Allow your cat to stay indoors for at least two weeks so they can get used to their new home – don’t forget to have a litter box available.
- Keep your routines for them as regular as possible
- Provide small frequent meals and ensure water is available at all times
Venturing outdoors
When your cat has got used to their new inside surroundings the next step is to allow them outdoors:
- Before letting your cat outside to explore ensure you get them an identification tag. Alternatively, if your new country offers a microchipping option, you may like to look into that.
- Remain calm and relaxed at all times so you don’t frighten your cat.
- Introduce your cat to the outdoors slowly – head outside together and keep a close eye on them. Consider limiting the outdoor area your cat will go initially so they don’t get overwhelmed.
- Never force your cat outside but if they do venture out ensure they have a way to easily get back inside if they become frightened.
- Once you cat has settled, a good idea is to install a cat flap so they can freely come and go. Just make sure it’s electronically controlled for just your cat, so no unwelcome guest comes in.
Moving to a new Country with your cat can be less stressful when you have a plan of action. We hope this helps your furry friend to have a safe and happy settling in period at their new home.
