Moving is a stressful event, but it can become overwhelming if you have pets. From separation anxiety to bathroom breaks, it is easy to see the challenging nature of moving with your dog or cat. However, making the transportation and transition to a new residence easier for your pets is possible. If you have a cat, proper preparation before the move is smart to reduce your pet's anxiety. Shaking, vomiting, and diarrhea are common, but your cat may also act out on their stress and fear by panicking and scratching you and other family members. To reduce you and your cat's stress while moving, use these simple tips.

Pack Slowly

Waiting until the last minute to pack your belongings will not only cause you and the movers stress, but it will also stress out your cat.

Begin packing up your belongings as soon as you know you will be moving. Work slow, clearing away unused items, such as out-of-season clothing and accessories, decorative accents, books, games, and movies. Avoid packing any item that your cat uses for comfort. This may include beds, crates, scratch posts, and toys. Of course, make sure to leave their litter box in its existing spot until the very last day you are in the home.

Packing slowly will make your move more efficient while giving you and your cat time to adjust to the upcoming changes.

Prepare Records/Medications

No matter if you are moving a few blocks away or to a completely new side of the country, it is smart to have your cat's records and any medications on you during the move. This is beneficial if your cat becomes sick or is lost during the move.

A few weeks before moving day, contact your cat's veterinarian and ask for copies of their medical records. Be sure to include vaccinations in these records. Also, refill any prescriptions before the move. Having your cat's medications on hands is essential if you are moving to a new state, since it may take some time to find a new veterinarian.

Also, if possible, have your cat microchipped. While surprising for many pet owners to learn, an estimated 71 percent of cats that enter animal shelters are euthanized. Thankfully, animal shelters have a higher chance of reuniting you with your lost cat if they have a microchip.

Protect your Cat On Moving Day

The movers will need to move heavy furniture and bulky boxes out of your home, so making sure your cat is locked up or out of the home on the actual day of your move is wise. Consider asking a neighbor, friend, or relative to watch your cat on moving day. If your cat must be with you at the home, allow them to rest in a crate or cat carrier while the movers are working.

Never allow your cat to ride in the mover's truck. The majority of moving companies do not permit the transportation of pets. Your cat should remain in the crate or carrier while you travel to your new residence. This will prevent them from feeling unnecessary stress, which can lead to them becoming ill or scratching you while you drive.

If you are moving to a new residence that will require a few hours of driving time, make sure to stop and rest periodically. Bring your cat out of their carrier so they can stretch out for a few minutes. They should also use this time to go to the bathroom (in the litter box or outdoors), eat some food, and drink a good amount of water.

Your cat is an important part of your family's life, so protecting them during your move is essential. With these tips, you can pack up and move to your new home without causing your cat excess stress and anxiety.

For more tips and options for moving your cat, communicate with a professional moving company, like Redondo Van & Storage.

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