Moving house with cat

[basilflower]

When we got our cat from the RSPCA we were advised to keep her indoors for a few weeks whilst she got to know us and understood this was her new home. We are about to move house. She now knows us, but won't know the new area. Wondering if we need to keep her inside for as long this time, or will the fact that she knows us help her settle in quicker? She's reasonably nervous as she's a rescue cat, so mostly doesn't go near new people, but is very familiar with us. Thank you!

[Fluffycloudland77]

3-4 weeks is usually advised.

[basilflower]

Even if you're moving with a cat that already knows you? It must be different to bringing a cat to a new house and new people surely? Our cat does not like being cooped up inside, she's been meowing all night!

[Fluffycloudland77]

Yes.

It's not you they need to come back to, it's the new house.

After a few weeks of sitting on the windowsills they've learnt the immediate area and won't get lost.

[ClarkL]

We did this when we first moved and 2 of our cats hated being inside so we got a lead and cat harness for them, we took them for little walks so they got the fresh air and got used to the smells around the house.

Like Fluffy said, it isn't you, but the smells surrounding the new house they need to get familiar with