A psychologist once said it takes around six months for a human to adapt to a new home or to new surroundings. Although scientists specializing on animal behavior have different theories when it comes to cats, it is best to keep a few things in mind if you are planning to move to a new home with your furry friend!

This can be a rather stressful process for your cat, so you should consider making this as easy a transition as you possibly can! Cats get very attached to their surroundings and it is often believed they can show more attention and interest in a certain place than its actual owners. Pay attention to what you do before, during and after moving out of your current home! Do not start packing up the entire house or move around the furniture with your cat parading underfoot! It is best you take your cat in a separate room while doing so, preferably with all its toys, bowls and other necessities. Place your cat in its carrier after you’ve finished packing and take it out only when you are ready to leave the premises for good. Leaving your cat waiting in the car or locked in an unknown space while you bring all your stuff out of the house is an unnecessary discomfort for your pet!

Providing an easy and comfortable trip is also important for your pet, so be careful when considering what your cat requires in order to “arrive in one piece”! Don’t leave your pet in a hot and enclosed space, do not transport your cat in a cargo space of a car or moving truck, provide proper meals and water and, if worse comes to worst, opt for taking your cat to the vet and have it sedated before embarking on this journey. And, if possible, try maintaining calm throughout the whole ordeal because it will offer a sense of security and stability for your cat.

Once arrived at your destination, do not expect your cat to be as happy and relieved as you might be. It is still very important for your pet to gradually get acquainted and used to its new surroundings. You can make this a whole lot easier for everybody by keeping your cat indoors for a few weeks, especially if it isn’t an outdoor pet. Try to maintain as many old habits as possible and offer an incentive by rubbing wall and furniture corners with a cloth that you previously rubbed your cat with; this will spread the cat’s scent throughout the house and make your pet comfortable faster. You might also consider spending more time with your cat until everything falls into place.

Relocating with your cat doesn’t have to be a stressful affair. As long as you show a little consideration for your cat and its needs, the entire process can run smoothly and you can enjoy the advantages of your new home and environment along with your beloved pet!