posted 11-12-2002 07:45 PM           

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WE are moving into a new house soon and we are worried our cat may run away from his new environment. How can we make the transition better for him? We have some time up oyr sleeves, so is it better to take him to the new place a few times before we actually move. If so when is the best time to let him start to wander freely outside?

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From:Durango, Colorado USA
Registered: Nov 2002

posted 11-13-2002 03:09 AM            

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Hi! We just moved 4 cats 1500 miles, and it went quite well. A lot depends on the temperment of your cat. Unless your kitty likes to travel and go to new places, it is really best not to bring him/her back and forth between two places until you are ready to go. On the day of your move or while you are loading up to go, confine the kitty to one smaller, quiet area, like a room, with toys and something that has your scent on it--even laundry will do. His/her carrier in the room will help too, left open. When you move your cat, make sure he/she is securely in the cage. I assume you don;t have far to go so medication is not an issue. Once you arrive, set aside a quiet space that can be secured with a door so that your cat cannot get out in the chaos of moving. Make sure there is a litterbox, food and water there as well as a carrier, box, something to hide behind/in , and something with your scent on it. Once things have quieted down, (of course you want to keep checking on your cat) sit with your cat and talk to him/her and let him explore smaller areas at first. It may be too much to take all at once! Don;t abandon your cat or banish him to the bathroom for example when he is used to sleeping on your bed at night. Keep a routine, and do NOT let your cat outside for at least 3-4 weeks. When you do venture out, a harness and leash might be a good idea so that he/she can get the scent of the area slowly and orient to the place. That way, if kitty tries to escape, he/she will have the scent of the area better and will have a better chance of finding the way home. My cats got out after 2 weeks, but i went out with them at first. Now, after a month, they venture out for short periods.
The key is to make sure that your cat is able to adjust to the scent of your new place and orient to the surroundings. He/she will let you know when it is time to go out, and you will be able to easily tell your cats comfort level. I hope this helps some!

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posted 11-13-2002 11:07 PM           

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Thanks for your advice, though I suspect he may want to get outside fairly soon as he is the outdoor type!! Cheers.

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From:Durango, Colorado USA
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posted 11-17-2002 10:53 PM            

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thats great! good luck with your move. It sounds like your kitty will do great, and may be able to venture out fairly quickly!
all the best to you.....Dyan

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From:Durango, Colorado USA
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posted 11-17-2002 10:53 PM            

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thats great! good luck with your move. It sounds like your kitty will do great, and may be able to venture out fairly quickly!
all the best to you.....Dyan

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