10 Best Tips On Moving an Outdoor Cat to a New Home
15th November, 2019
Even with careful preparation, moving house can still be a stressful experience. For cats, especially those used to roaming freely outdoors, moving to a new home can be confusing and overwhelming. Outdoor cats rely on routine and familiar places, so they find moving tough.
If you’re wondering how to move a cat to a new house without risking their safety or wellbeing, this guide is for you. Follow this step-by-step plan, based on veterinary advice, to help your outdoor cat settle into their new home with minimal stress.
Pre-Move Checklist for Your Outdoor Cat
Before the moving van arrives, here are key things to do:
✅ Schedule a vet check-up (ensure vaccines are up to date, and administer flea/worm treatments)
✅ Microchip your cat or update address details
✅ Order a secure cat carrier
✅ Prepare a quiet room in the new house
✅ Purchase pheromone diffusers (like Feliway) to ease stress
✅ Gather familiar bedding, toys, food bowls, and litter box
✅ Register your cat with the local council (if required)
1. Choose One Quiet Cat Room
Don’t bring your cat into an empty or chaotic house. After setting up your furniture and creating a calm space, choose a quiet room without outside doors or heavy foot traffic. Consider using a spare bedroom, laundry, or quiet study as your cat’s temporary settling space.
Set up your cat’s essentials in the room include their bed, litter tray, food and water bowls, and a few favourite toys. This “safe zone” will become your cat’s comfort zone during the transition.
Vet Tip: Use a pheromone diffuser in this room a day before arrival to reduce anxiety.
2. Set Up Essentials Before Arrival
Set up a quiet, familiar space where your cat can feel safe. Place food, water, and litter away from each other and ensure your cat has an easy escape route if startled. Avoid placing supplies in corners or confined spaces.
Behavioural Tip: Cats feel most vulnerable when eating or using the litter box. Avoid blocking their view or cornering them during this time.
3. Transport Your Cat in a Secure Carrier
On moving day, place your cat in a secure, well-ventilated carrier with a soft blanket inside. Secure the carrier in the back seat with a seatbelt to ensure safe transport. Keep the ride quiet and smooth, and avoid unnecessary stops to reduce stress.
Vet Tip: Spray the carrier with calming pheromones at least 15 minutes before placing your cat inside.
4. Release Your Cat in the Chosen Room
Once you arrive, take your cat directly to the designated room and close the door securely. Allow your cat to exit the carrier when they feel ready. Sit quietly nearby and offer reassurance through your presence not forced cuddles.
Behavioural Tip: Allow your cat to explore and investigate their surroundings to build familiarity. Avoid loud noises, sudden movements, or introducing strangers during this phase.
5. Offer Comfort and Routine
Keep your cat’s daily schedule consistent. Feed them at the same time and provide familiar items. Sit in the room for a while each day to offer company and reassurance.
Vet Tip: It’s normal for cats to experience appetite changes following a move. If your cat hasn’t eaten within 48 hours, seek veterinary advice.
6. Keep the Cat in One Room for 3 Days
Limiting your cat to one room allows them to adjust slowly and form new scent associations. Check on your cat often, play gently, and make sure they have everything they need.
Behavioural Tip: Avoid giving your cat free roam too early. This staged approach builds confidence and prevents bolting.
7. Gradually Allow Access to the House (2 Weeks Indoors)
After three days, let your cat explore the rest of the home but keep all external doors and windows shut. Cats can easily attempt to return to their old territory if given the chance.
During this two-week indoor period, begin transitioning litter box and food locations if needed.
Behavioural Tip: Offer high perches and hiding spots in new rooms. Cats feel safer when they have vertical space and escape options.
8. Register, Tag, and Microchip
Before your cat ventures outdoors, make sure they’re:
- Registered with your new council (where required)
- Wearing a breakaway collar with your contact details
- Microchipped with updated address
- Vaccines are up to date, along with flea and worm treatments
Vet Tip: These precautions greatly increase the chance of a safe return if your cat becomes lost.
9. Supervise Outdoor Time Initially
Begin supervised outdoor sessions after your cat has spent two weeks indoors. Stay close, keep the door open, and let them explore slowly while you encourage them to stay nearby.
Behavioural Tip: Introduce your cat to the outdoor area gradually, using encouraging voice tones and treats. They’re more likely to stay nearby if they associate you with safety and routine.
10. Slowly Increase Unsupervised Time
As your cat becomes more familiar with the new yard or surroundings, you can gradually allow unsupervised outdoor time. Start with short durations and extend only if your cat consistently returns.
Feed your cat on schedule to reinforce positive routines and ensure they return home regularly.
Vet Tip: If you live near a busy road or new area, use a GPS tracker to keep your cat safe while they explore. It adds an extra layer of safety while your cat explores and gets used to their new surroundings.
Post-Move Care Tips
✅ Monitor for signs of stress (hiding, vocalising, appetite changes)
✅ Stick to regular feeding and play times
✅ Offer enrichment toys and scratching posts
✅ Keep your cat indoors at night for safety
✅ Stay calm your mood affects your cat’s behaviour too
Helping Your Outdoor Cat Feel at Home After the Move
Moving an outdoor cat isn’t easy and needs patience.. By following the right steps, you can safely introduce your cat to their new home. Maintain a gradual pace and consistent routine to support your cat’s adjustment.
At Kent, we’ve helped thousands of Australian families move safely, pets included. For more expert tips and advice on moving house with cats, check out our other blogs or speak to our experienced team.
Looking to simplify your move for both you and your cat? Contact Kent Removals & Storage today.
