Moving to a new home can be a great opportunity, even for your pets. Although cats generally do not enjoy the moving process, a new home with plenty of space could be the ideal living environment. Much as you would for an infant or small children, cats need the space to be curated to minimize hazards like choking or poisoning. With these tips, you will know just what to do to keep your cat safe from the first day.

Set Up Toys and Beds First

Before you start unpacking other boxes, make sure that your cat can be comfortable once they arrive. Set up a favorite bed or blanket with a few familiar toys. Place a scratcher near wood or carpet. Scoop but do not fully clean the litterbox before transporting it, so the cat can recognize it by scent. Many pet owners keep their cats in a single room for the first day or two, so they can gradually adjust themselves to the space. If you choose to do so, make sure the room has a litterbox, food, water, beds, and other comforts.

Secure Tall Furniture and Shelving

Cats love to climb, and their general light weight may make you think that they can safely climb on anything. In fact, cats can tip over tall furniture or break shelving based on the way they land and jump. As you place tall chests or cubbies, use anchors to keep them attached to the wall. Make sure that the shelves have adequate support to keep them from breaking apart from the brackets. You can test its security by pressing weight on it or tugging on it to see if it moves or starts to come away from the wall.

Avoid Choking Hazards

Like small children, cats can get caught or choke on things. Complete these tasks before you let your cats run free throughout the home:

• Secure blind or curtain cords or install cordless varieties
• Keep plastic bags out of reach
• Cut handles off bags or store them in a closet
• Avoid small balls or other choking hazards that cats think are toys
• Use cat-friendly décor

Remember that cats can easily climb into an open trash can and find choking hazards. Secure your trash or take it out when you have garbage that can be toxic or injurious to your cat.

Test Doors and Windows

Before you move, you should test the exterior doors and windows of your new home. Doors and windows should open easily and close completely, with latches to lock them closed. If they will not stay latched, consult with a contractor to repair them or replace them with options that will close tightly. If you like to leave the windows open for fresh air on mild days, make sure that the window has a screen in good condition over the opening. The screen will keep out insects and prevent your cat from escaping.

Remove Toxins

Many household items are toxic to cats. Because cats do not know they are poisonous, they may try to eat them and get sick. Many popular household plants, such as lilies or tulips, are poisonous to cats. Keep them out of access of your cats and do not assume that a noxious smell will keep your cat from investigating paint or cleansers. Instead, label boxes with potentially toxic items, such as cleaners or holiday decorations, and ask your moving company in Los Angeles to put them in a place where you can store them out of reach immediately.

Moving with a cat can be somewhat stressful, even if you have a plan to help them settle in and transition. One of the best things you can do to give your cat a good start in the new home is to cat-proof their living spaces. By following these tips, you can minimize hazards that put your cat at risk.

Author bio: Stan Caramalac is the founder and CEO of Move Central. He started the company because he truly believed that moving could be simple as long as it was done efficiently. He strives to help people make their moves smoother and less stressful. Caramalac and his team proudly serve San Diego, Orange County, Los Angeles and the Bay Area. 

SOURCES

https://www.armandhammer.com/en/articles/how-to-cat-kitten-proof-your-house

https://www.shadowcree

Images from: Deposit Photos