Are you planning a cross-country move? Things get a bit complicated if you have a furry friend in tow. Relocating your cat to a new home may not ever be stress-free, but with the right preparation and care, you can ensure a smooth transition. Here are some tips for promoting safety and comfort while moving with your cat.
Pick a Mode of Transport
Selecting the best way to get your cat from point A to point B is the first step. Consider what will make your cat most comfortable:
- Driving with your cat: Familiar scents and your presence can ease stress. You also have direct supervision and control over when you take breaks. The biggest downside is that the drive could take hours if not days.
- Flying with your cat: This option is faster, reducing the stress from a long journey. However, the odd smells, crowded cabin, and pressure changes could be stressful for your cat. Airlines also have differing pet policies, so make sure you meet the requirements before boarding.
- Hiring a pet carrier service: Professional pet moving services take on this task so you can focus on other things. This could be a low-stress option for long-distance moves unless your cat has separation anxiety.
Prepare Your Cat
Getting your cat ready to move is just as important as the move itself. Here’s what to do:
- Take your cat to the vet: Ensure a clean bill of health and get all vaccinations up to date. This is also a good time to discuss any travel-related concerns or medications.
- Microchip your cat: This step provides added peace of mind during the move. Remember to update your contact information in the microchip database.
- Get a comfortable carrier: Invest in a spacious, well-ventilated carrier for your cat’s comfort. Buy it months in advance so your cat can become familiar with it before moving day.
- Take practice drives: If your cat hates the car, desensitize them by taking short drivers around town. You can also use these practice runs to identify and mitigate potential sources of stress.
Tackle Moving Day
Moving day can be hectic, but you can keep your cat calm and safe in several ways:
- Pack your cat bag: Include food, water, a litter box, and familiar toys. Also, keep necessary medications at the ready.
- Make your cat comfortable: Line the carrier with familiar blankets and toys, and avoid feeding right before travel to prevent motion sickness.
- Warn your movers that you have an animal: This ensures your cat’s safety and alerts movers that they should not prop open windows or doors until the cat is safely in their carrier.
- Use calming sprays: Ask your vet about sprays that release pheromones with comforting effects. You can use this in your pet’s carrier and once you reach your new home.
Make Your Move with Confidence
Firefighting’s Finest Movers & Storage offers unparalleled moving services in Fort Worth, Dallas, Houston, Austin, and beyond, perfect for anyone relocating with pets. Since 2001, we’ve specialized in both residential and commercial moves, ensuring your belongings and furry friends arrive safely. Our team is comprised of professionally trained movers, including several current and former firemen, for your peace of mind. For more information about our moving services, please contact us at 844-715-6625 or request an estimate online.
