Dear Critter Corner:
I’m planning a major move across the country with two senior cats and it’s kind of daunting. To add to that we’re downsizing from a one-bedroom apartment to a studio, help!
Any kind of move, whether down the street, to another city, or across the country can be incredibly stressful. Try to plan weeks to months ahead, stay organized, and get plenty of rest and down-time for you and the kitties in between.
It can be helpful to break the move into smaller parts, what you’ll take with you to the new place versus donating, what can be packed into boxes versus larger items like furniture, what needs to be completed months ahead versus the week of etc. Create a general moving list for yourself and one specifically for the cats, to include vet checkups, packing extra items (food, medications, litter etc.), and finding a vet in the new location beforehand. There are many helpful lists online created by seasoned movers to help you create your moving check list.
During the few weeks prior and the day of the move, try to keep your routine as normal as possible, to help reduce the cats’ anxiety and stress as they notice changes to their environment. Cats, like people, can have a tough time with change and need general reminders that their world is still safe and secure. Try using a stress relaxing pheromone spray on the cats’ bedding, toys, and crates and keep to their daily routine.
If moving to a smaller space, be sure to keep in mind that cats need plenty of stimulation and increase their vertical space. You may consider investing in extra tall cat trees, shelving to create a cat highway, and cat window hammocks.
Once you reach your destination, keep the cats in their cates with food and water, and set up the apartment before letting them out. Once finished, put on some calming music, let the cats explore, and take some much-needed rest.