Moving With Cats: How to Reduce Stress on Travel Day

Cats like routine and territory. A move takes away both. Cat owners in online groups often say the trip itself was easier than they feared; it's the lead-up and the first days after that are hard. Here's how to make the whole process smoother.

Before the move

• Keep routines steady. Feed, play and sleep at the usual times, even while boxes pile up.
• Set up a quiet room. In the final days of packing, keep your cat in one room with litter, water, food, a bed and the travel carrier. This stops last-minute hiding under beds.
• Visit the vet. Check vaccinations, especially rabies if crossing the border into Canada. Ask whether your cat would benefit from a vet-prescribed calming medication, and do a trial run at home well before travel day.
• Check the microchip. Make sure it's registered with your new address and phone number.

On travel day

• Carrier first thing. Put your cat in the carrier before movers or strangers arrive, while the house is still calm.
• Light breakfast. A small meal a few hours before departure reduces the chance of nausea. Ask your transporter or vet about timing.
• Cover part of the carrier. A light towel over the carrier helps many cats feel hidden. Leave ventilation clear.
• Familiar smells. Include a worn T-shirt or the cat's usual blanket.
• Absorbent pads. Line the carrier so accidents don't leave your cat sitting in a mess.

During the trip

Most cats stay in their carrier for the whole trip. Opening carrier doors at rest stops is how cats escape, and a frightened cat at a highway service centre is very hard to catch. A professional transporter should only open the carrier inside a closed vehicle, if at all. For longer trips, larger carriers with room for a small litter tray may be used.

Vocalizing is normal at first. Many cats settle once the vehicle is moving steadily. Signs that need attention include open-mouth breathing, drooling, or repeated vomiting.

Arriving at the new home

• Set up one "base camp" room before letting your cat out: litter, food, water, bed and hiding places.
• Keep doors and windows closed. Newly moved cats often try to bolt.
• Let your cat explore the rest of the house gradually over several days.
• If your cat will go outdoors, keep them inside for at least a couple of weeks so they learn the new home first.

Multi-cat households

Cats who get along at home may be tense after travel. Reintroduce them slowly if there's any hissing or swatting. Separate carriers are best for the trip.

At 4Paws Movers, cats ride secured in their carriers in a quiet, climate-controlled vehicle. Tell us about your cat's habits when you request a quote, and see our FAQ for more.