Moving and Traveling with Cats: Reduce Stress and Anxiety

You probably know all too well that cats are creatures of habit, and they feel safest when surrounded by familiar sights, sounds, and smells. That’s why moving to a new home can be tough on felines.

Unlike us humans, cats don't understand why their environment is changing, which can lead to stress and anxiety. The typical signs of distress include hiding, not eating, or behaving aggressively. Some cats even try to escape their new homes in an attempt to return to familiar territory. This can be dangerous for the cat and heartbreaking for the owner.

Recognizing these challenges, many pet owners take proactive steps to help their cats adjust. According to recent surveys, over 90% of pet owners have either moved with their pets or are planning to do so. To make it smoother, 28% of pet owners searched online for information about moving with pets; 22% sought advice from their veterinarian about helping the pet adjust and 23% found a veterinary practice in their new community before moving.

If you're one of these caring cat owners, you're in the right place. Below, you'll find practical tips and strategies to help make your cat's transition to a new home as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Biggest concerns about moving with pets

When it comes to moving with cats, there are two main aspects to consider: the journey itself and adapting to a new environment. Some pet owners are simply traveling with their pets for short periods, as it becomes increasingly popular, while others are permanently changing their place of residence.

Regardless of whether it's a short car ride or a long-distance move, the experience of moving can be stressful for cats. According to research by True Global Intelligence, and marketing firm FleishmanHillard, 84% of pets experienced some level of stress adjusting to their new home and neighborhood.

Common concerns for pet owners typically include:

Keeping their cat calm during travel
Ensuring safety and comfort throughout the journey
Helping their cat adjust to new living spaces
Maintaining routines in an unfamiliar environment
Addressing potential behavioral changes due to stress

The road to a new home

chart indicating concerns about moving with pet

The moving process begins with the journey itself – that nerve-wracking adventure from point A to point B.

Cats are smart and pick up on changes quickly. 70% of respondents said their pet could tell something was up while their owners were packing. They notice when stuff gets moved around or put in boxes. This makes them worried. They might start acting weird, hiding more or being extra clingy.

When it's time to leave, cats get even more stressed. They don't like being put in carriers. The car or plane ride is scary for them. Everything is new and strange. The sounds, smells, and movement are all different.

During the trip, cats might not want to eat or drink. They might cry a lot or try to get out of their carrier. Some cats get sick to their stomach from the motion.

Pet owners have plenty of concerns too, with 46% worried about their cat's safety and 24% stressed about planning logistics. Safety concerns might include fears about the cat escaping during transit or becoming stressed to the point of illness. Logistical worries could involve figuring out how to transport the cat comfortably, ensuring all necessary supplies are packed, and preparing the new home to be pet-friendly.

That's plenty of things to think about even at this stage.

Adjusting to a new home

After the journey, cats face the challenge of settling into their new environment. This process can be just as stressful for them as the move itself.

Nowadays, pet owners pay more attention to their pets’ needs when it comes to choosing a new home. In fact, 39% of pet owners reported that their pets influenced their choice of home. To help pets acclimate to their new surroundings, 64% of owners took their pets to see the new house before moving in.

Yet, regardless of these efforts, challenges still come up during the adjustment period:

Hiding behavior: Many cats may retreat to small, enclosed spaces for extended periods, feeling overwhelmed by the new environment.
Changes in appetite: Some cats might refuse to eat or drink in unfamiliar surroundings, which can lead to health issues if prolonged.
Litter box problems: Cats may have accidents outside the litter box due to stress or confusion about its new location.
Increased vocalization: Some cats become more vocal, meowing excessively as they try to communicate their discomfort or search for familiar spaces.
Escape attempts: In their confusion, cats might try to escape the new home in search of familiar territory.
Aggression or fear: Some cats may display unusually aggressive or fearful behavior towards family members or other pets.
Overgrooming: Stress can lead to excessive grooming, sometimes resulting in bald patches or skin irritation.

These challenges can persist for days or even weeks, requiring patience and understanding from pet owners. Luckily, there are some ways you can help your cat to adjust to a new home faster.

Tips for a safe travel to a new home

Changes in environment, loss of familiar routines, and unexpected situations can all contribute to a cat's stress during travel. For many cats, even the sight of a carrier can trigger anxiety, as they've learned to associate it with impending journeys.

While it's generally best to limit cat travel to essential trips, some journeys are unavoidable and you should arm yourself with some tips for safe travels.

Familiarize your cat with the carrier

Introduce the carrier to your cat days or weeks before the move. Place treats, toys, or familiar bedding inside to create positive associations. This can help reduce stress on the moving day.

Maintain a calm environment

Minimize stress by keeping the car quiet and cool. Avoid loud music and maintain a comfortable temperature. Cover the carrier with a light cloth to provide a sense of security.

Plan for regular breaks

On long trips, schedule stops every few hours. Offer water and a chance to use a portable litter box. Never leave your cat unattended in a parked car, especially in warm weather.

Pack a travel kit

Prepare a kit with essentials like food, water, medication, a leash, waste bags, portable water bowl and familiar cat toys. Having these items readily available can help manage unexpected situations during the journey.

Boa snake cat toy stuffed with organic catnip

Withhold food before travel

Feed your cat a light meal about 3-4 hours before departure. This can help prevent motion sickness and reduce the likelihood of accidents during the trip.

Use calming aids if necessary

Consider using cat-specific calming products like pheromone sprays or supplements recommended by your veterinarian. These can help reduce anxiety during travel.

Secure the carrier in the vehicle

Place the carrier in a safe, stable position in your vehicle. Secure it with a seatbelt or wedge it between other items to prevent sliding during the journey.

Tips for adjusting your cat to a new home

Just as we said, sudden changes in their environment can cause stress and anxiety. However, there's good news for pet owners: despite initial difficulties, a study has shown that 93% of pets settle into their new homes within a month, thanks to their owners' support and patience.

By understanding your feline friend's needs and implementing a few key strategies, you can help your cat feel safe, comfortable, and at home in their new surroundings.

1. Create a safe space

Set up a quiet room or area in your new home specifically for your cat. This space should include their litter box, food and water bowls, bed, and favorite toys. This familiar environment will serve as a safe haven where your cat can retreat when feeling overwhelmed.

An example of such a space is a pet house like the Paper Cat House by Noio. Such products are beneficial for cats during transitions because they provide a secure, enclosed space that feels like a personal territory. The combination of comfort and visibility allows cats to observe their new surroundings while feeling protected, which can significantly reduce stress and aid in their adjustment to the new home.

Paper Cat House Terazzo

2. Minimize noise and chaos

During the moving process and initial days in the new home, try to keep noise levels low and reduce excessive activity around your cat. This calm atmosphere will help reduce stress and anxiety, allowing your cat to adjust more easily to their new surroundings.

3. Use familiar scents and their favorite items

Bring items from your old home that carry familiar scents, such as your cat's bedding, scratching posts, the favorite food bowl or even unwashed laundry. These familiar smells can provide comfort and help your cat feel more at ease in the new environment.

For example, a favorite bed may offer your cat a familiar space within the unfamiliar environment, potentially easing anxiety and helping your cat adjust more quickly to their new home.

Haro Pet Bed by Bad Marlon

4. Keep the cat in the same room

For the first few days, confine your cat to one room in the new house. This smaller, controlled space will help them feel secure and gradually acclimate to their new surroundings without feeling overwhelmed by the entire house at once.

5. Leave their toys around

Distribute your cat's favorite toys throughout their designated area and eventually the rest of the house. This will encourage exploration and play, helping your cat associate positive experiences with their new home.

The best idea is to use organic and natural cat toys handcrafted with natural cotton linen and infused with organic catnip. These toys are ideal for helping cats adjust to a new home because they offer familiar, comforting scents and textures. Natural materials are gentle and safe, while catnip encourages play and exploration.

Fish Bone Cat Toy

6. Stick to a routine

Maintain your cat's regular feeding, playtime, and attention schedule as much as possible. Consistency in daily routines can provide a sense of normalcy and security during this transitional period.

7. Provide vertical spaces

Set up cat trees, shelves, or perches to give your cat vertical territory. Cats feel safer when they can observe their surroundings from elevated positions, and this can help them feel more in control of their new environment.

8. Keep them indoors (at first)

For cats that are used to going outdoors, it's crucial to keep them inside for at least a few weeks after the move. This allows them to fully adjust to their new home and prevents them from getting lost or disoriented in unfamiliar territory.

After this period, you can try supervised walks using a harness and leash. These accessories help your cat become familiar with the new surroundings without the risk of running away or getting lost.

Montreal Leash By KOSTON x WagBone

9. Introduce new people and pets slowly

If there are new family members or pets in the household, introduce them to your cat gradually. Use controlled, supervised interactions to ensure positive experiences and prevent overwhelming your cat.

10. Monitor their behavior

Pay close attention to your cat's behavior during the adjustment period. Look for signs of stress such as hiding, loss of appetite, or changes in litter box habits. If these persist or worsen, consult with your veterinarian for additional advice or support.

Elevate your new home with stylish and eco-friendly pet products

Moving to a new home is an exciting experience for both you and your pet. It's a fresh start, filled with new sights, smells, and spaces to explore.

No matter how overwhelming this transition is for our pets, with a little support from us, it can become an adventure they'll enjoy alongside you.

KOSTON's stylish and eco-friendly pet accessories can help make the transition smoother while elevating your living space. These products not only look great in your new home but also provide comfort and familiarity for your friend. With KOSTON's products, you can create familiar comfort zones throughout your new home, helping your pet feel secure as they investigate their new surroundings.

Choose KOSTON to create a stylish, eco-friendly home that both you and your pet will love.

February 28, 2025

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How to Make a Cat Feel Comfortable in a New Home