🏠 Create a Safe Space

First, set up a “safe space” for your cat before they arrive at the new home. A single room equipped with all their essentials works well. In this room, provide a comfy bed, litter box, food, water, and, of course, their favorite toys and familiar-smelling blankets. This space will serve as their sanctuary where they can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. Make sure it’s a quiet area where they won’t be disturbed by the hustle and bustle of moving day, setting up furniture, and unpacking boxes. Make comfy hiding spaces with boxes and their favorite blankets so they can keep out of the way but somewhere you can find them.

🧸 Stick to the Familiar

Cats find comfort in familiarity, so bring items that smell like the old home. Blankets, cushions, or even a worn T-shirt can help create a sense of continuity amidst the chaos. These familiar scents can soothe your cat and make the new environment feel less foreign. A handy tip is to wear the same T-shirt for all your packing and sweaty work in the lead-up to the move, as it will be strongly scented of you, ready for travel and new home acclimatizing. It is helpful to play music or the radio in the room to disguise any unfamiliar sounds that will be happening outside of the room, like moving teams, banging and clattering of unpacking, or neighborhood sounds.

🚪 Slowly Expand Their Territory

Once your cat seems comfortable in their safe space (which can take some time, so be patient), gradually allow them to explore more of the house. Open up one room at a time, letting them investigate at their own pace. Remember that some cats may be eager to explore, while others might be more hesitant—let your cat dictate the speed of this process.

⏰ Maintain Routine

Cats thrive on routine, so try to keep feeding times, play sessions, and bedtime consistent. This regularity will provide a sense of stability and reassure your cat that not everything has changed. If possible, maintain the same feeding stations and litter box locations they had in the previous home.

🌸 Use Pheromones

Consider using feline pheromone, herbal diffusers, or sprays in your new home (like Feliway or Pet Remedy). These products mimic cats' natural facial pheromones when they feel safe and content. Plugging in a diffuser or spraying key areas can help reduce anxiety and encourage your cat to relax.

💗 Be Patient

Every cat adjusts at their own pace. Some might settle in within a few days, while others may take weeks or months to feel truly at home. Be patient and understanding, offering plenty of affection and reassurance. If your cat seems particularly stressed, consult your vet for additional advice.

🌳 Introduce New Surroundings Gradually

If your new home has outdoor space and your cat is used to going outside, keep them indoors for at least four weeks before letting them explore the great outdoors. Give them time to become completely comfortable with the inside of the house first. When the time is right, accompany them on short, supervised outings until they are confident in their new surroundings.

🧐 Watch for Signs of Stress

Keep an eye out for signs that your cat may be stressed or anxious, such as excessive hiding, changes in appetite, or unusual behavior. Address these issues promptly—sometimes, a bit of extra TLC or creating more hideaways can do the trick. (How to tell your cat is stressed) Moggie can help you monitor their activity to help identify stress and to let you know how they are doing while they are in their sanctuary room. It will help you to understand when they are ready for the next step in their journey into the new house or identify whether you need to speak to your vet.

🎉 Make New Memories

Finally, remember that your cat is not just moving into a new house—they’re embarking on a new adventure with you. Create positive experiences in the new space through play, treats, and cuddle sessions. This will help your cat associate their new home with good things, making it a place where they feel happy and secure.