If you’ve ever moved before, you already know it can be overwhelming—boxes everywhere, to-do lists a mile long, and the constant stress of whether you packed everything. Now add a cat into that mix, and things get a lot more complicated. Moving with a cat isn’t impossible, but it definitely requires some extra planning, patience, and empathy.
Whether you’re relocating across town or across the country, here are the best tips and practices I’ve learned (some the hard way) to make the move as smooth as possible for both you and your furry friend.
Tip #1: Start Preparing Early
Cats are extremely sensitive to change. They notice when furniture shifts, routines break, or new smells fill the room. So when you start preparing to move, include your cat in that process early on.
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Leave out the moving boxes well before the move. Let your cat explore them, sit in them, or even claim them. This helps reduce box-related anxiety later.
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Stick to their routine as much as possible—same feeding times, same playtime, same snuggle time. Consistency is comforting.
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Start introducing the carrier at least a few weeks before the move. Leave it open in a cozy spot with a soft blanket or their favorite toy inside. Toss in treats or feed them near or inside it to build positive associations.
Tip #2: Create a “Safe Zone” During the Move
Moving day is pure chaos—doors opening and closing, furniture being moved, and lots of strange sounds. The best thing you can do for your cat is set up a calm, enclosed space where they can’t get lost or run out the door.
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Choose a quiet room like the bathroom or a bedroom.
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Set it up with their litter box, food, water, bedding, and favorite toys.
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Keep them in this room while everything is being packed and moved, and check on them regularly.
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Post a sign on the door to remind movers or friends not to open it.
Tip #3: Make Travel as Comfortable as Possible
Some cats travel well. Others…not so much. But either way, the right setup makes a huge difference.
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Use a sturdy carrier that’s well-ventilated and just big enough for them to turn around.
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Line the bottom with an item that smells like home (blanket, shirt, or towel).
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If your cat gets especially anxious, talk to your vet ahead of time about natural calming aids or anxiety meds.
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Keep the car cool and quiet. Avoid loud music or windows down. Talk softly to your cat as you drive—they know your voice.
If you’re traveling a long distance:
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Bring a small travel litter box, and offer food and water during stops.
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Never open the carrier in an unsecured area. Even the calmest cat can panic and bolt.
Tip #4: Ease Them into the New Space
Once you’ve arrived at the new home, resist the urge to open the carrier and let them roam free. That can be overwhelming.
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Start with a single room, set up with familiar items: their litter box, food, toys, scratching post, and cozy hiding spots.
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Let them explore on their own terms. Some cats will venture out immediately. Others might hide for hours or even days.
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Gradually open more of the home once they seem more relaxed.
Tip #5: Help Them Adjust After the Move
Even after you’re fully unpacked, your cat may take time to adjust. Some might cry at night. Others might stop eating for a day or two. This is normal.
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Stick to your regular routine—feeding, playtime, snuggles.
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Use interactive toys to encourage them to explore and feel confident.
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Keep their environment predictable—no new furniture rearranging just yet.
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Be patient. For some cats, it takes a few days. For others, it may take a few weeks.
Best Practices & Bonus Tips:
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Update your cat’s microchip and tags with your new address.
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Cat-proof your new home—check for loose screens, small escape routes, or anything that could be dangerous.
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Use calming sprays or diffusers like Feliway in your new home to reduce stress.
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Watch for behavior changes—a loss of appetite, aggression, or excessive hiding can be signs of stress. Reach out to your vet if anything feels off.
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Keep up with flea/tick prevention during the move—especially if you’re moving into a place with previous pets or outdoor access.
Final Thoughts
Moving with a cat is never going to be completely stress-free. But with a little planning, a lot of patience, and plenty of treats, it can be a lot easier than you’d think.
At the end of the day, your cat doesn’t care about the new kitchen or how many closets you have. They just want to feel safe, loved, and close to you. So take it slow, stay calm, and give them the space and comfort they need. You’ll both settle in—one pawstep at a time.
