Moving to a new home can be stressful for humans, so you may wonder if frequently moving house is also hard on cats. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take an in-depth look at how moving affects cats both physically and emotionally, whether certain cats cope better than others, and tips for making moves less traumatic for your feline friend.
If you’re short on time, here’s the quick answer: Frequent moves can be very stressful for cats, especially shy and anxious ones. But you can take steps before, during, and after the move to reduce the disruption and help cats gradually adjust to new surroundings.
How Moving Affects a Cat’s Health and Behavior
Increased Stress Hormones
Moving a cat to new homes frequently can impact their health by increasing stress hormones in their system (PetMD). High levels of stress hormones, like cortisol and adrenaline, weaken the immune system and increase the risk of issues like insomnia, anxiety, illness and destructive behaviors.
Territorial Marking and Inappropriate Elimination
Cats are very territorial creatures and moving homes disrupts their perceived territory. A 2021 survey by the ASPCA found that 30% of behavior cases in cats relate to inappropriate urination outside the litter box.
Frequent moves mean cats never establish a firm territory, provoking anxiety. This causes territorial markings by spraying urine on walls and furniture. Often cats may even eliminate outside the litter box within the home.
Excessive Grooming and Hair Loss
The stress of changing environments commonly makes cats groom themselves excessively due to the soothing, self-calming nature of grooming. However, too much licking and scratching leads to hair loss and skin irritation in areas like the belly and legs.
Hiding and Loss of Appetite
Moving to unfamiliar settings makes some cats hide away more. Their loss of appetite from moving stress causes weight loss, lethargy and depression too. According to WebMD, digestion issues from moving stress also mean vomiting or diarrhea.
Certain Cats May Handle Moving Better Than Others
Kittens Adapt More Easily
Kittens tend to be more adaptable and flexible when it comes to moving to new homes. Their personalities and habits are still forming during the first year of life, so frequent changes in environment can often be handled well.
Kittens are curious explorers by nature and may adjust quickly to new surroundings, especially if they have toys, treats, and affection to make the transition smoother.
According to ASPCA, kittens under 6 months old tend to thrive after a move because they are impressionable and adaptable. Their flexible temperaments allow them to form attachments to new caretakers and homes without much difficulty.
However, kittens still need reassurance and comfort to help them adjust.
Outgoing Cats Adjust Faster
Cats with outgoing, confident personalities are often less stressed by moving. They tend to readily explore new environments and may quickly make themselves at home in new digs. According to the Humane Society, friendly, social cats that feel secure with their owners are likely to transition well after a move.
Bold, curious cats are often the first to check out their new surroundings. Providing plenty of toys, window perches, and hiding spots can make an unfamiliar house more inviting for an adventurous feline.
Outgoing cats may appreciate having a Feliway diffuser plugged in to help create a welcoming environment.
One Big Move is Easier Than Frequent Small Ones
While no cat loves moving, making one major move to a permanent home is easier on cats than frequent small moves. Cats become attached to their territories and can suffer stress when their environments change repeatedly.
According to UC Davis, permanently rehoming a cat in a new loving environment is less traumatic than shuffling them between temporary homes every few months.
Cats feel more secure and relaxed when they can settle into a stable home base. Providing consistency with sleeping areas, litter boxes, feeding stations, daily routines and affection helps cats feel at home in new permanent residences.
Limiting major upheavals allows cats to adjust at their own pace.
Tips to Make Moving Easier on Cats
Gradually Introduce the New Home
Moving to a new home can be extremely stressful for cats. To help them gradually adjust, first place their carrier in the new home a few days prior to the move. This allows them to become accustomed to the new sights and smells.
Next, bring over a few favorite toys, treats, and bedding so the environment becomes more familiar. If possible, spend time acclimating the cat to the new home by visiting for a couple hours each day leading up to moving day.
This gradual exposure over a week or two makes the transition much smoother.
Use Familiar Smells and Sounds
Introducing familiar scents and sounds from the old home brings comfort in the midst of so much change. Place furniture and cat towers in similar arrangements and locations so their environment looks as much the same as possible. Bring over bedding they’ve slept on so their scent remains present.
Use synthetic feline pheromones like Feliway to help them feel secure. Play music or leave the TV on if those are ambient sounds they’re used to. The more familiar the new home smells and sounds, the faster they will settle in.
Give Special Attention and Affection
The stress of moving can cause cats to hide or act out. Be patient and give them extra love and reassurance—this may involve sitting quietly nearby so they don’t feel abandoned. Make sure to give them special dedicated play and snuggle time.
Moving their favorite toys or introducing new interactive toys also helps provide positive stimulation. Giving treats, brushing them, speaking soothingly, and being an anchor of support will help alleviate anxiety. Once they realize you are still present to care for them, they will relax.
Try Calming Supplements If Necessary
If a cat has high anxiety about the move, natural calming supplements can help take the edge off while they undergo such a disruptive transition. Many cat owners have success using calming treats, sprays, or diffusers that utilize gentle ingredients like chamomile, catnip, hemp, thiamine, and L-theanine.
These encourage relaxation without sedation. Try CBD oil made specifically for cats as well. While the research is still limited, studies show it is generally safe and may alleviate stressful situations. But always consult your vet before introducing any new supplements.
Conclusion
Moving to a new home can certainly be tough on cats, especially those more set in their ways. But by carefully introducing changes, keeping familiar items, and giving extra love and attention, you can help ease the transition.
Be patient, allow plenty of time for adjustment, and your cat can eventually feel comfortable and content again in their new surroundings.
