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The litter tray

Join our community of cat lovers on the Mumsnet Cat forum for kitten advice and help with cat behaviour.

Original poster

Keeping them in after a move

6 replies

PaperdollCartoon · 08/03/2018 09:28

We moved house on Saturday. We have two almost 4 year old neutered boys. They’ve always been in and out cats (more in because they’re lazy) never had a cat flap so they’re used to waiting for doors.

How long would you keep them in for? We kept them in 2 weeks last time we moved and that seems to be the standard but despite being pretty chilled, no accidents etc, they’re gagging to get out!

OP posts:
Want2beme · 08/03/2018 09:42

The thinking is to keep them in for 3 weeks, but some people think longer than that. They sound keen to explore. If your outside area is secure, you could try walking out with them at the weekend for a little while, to slowly introduce them to the outside. I wouldn't let them off on their own for a couple more weeks, at least.

Original poster
PaperdollCartoon · 08/03/2018 11:42

Outside isn’t secure, though we have gardens front and back so away from the road (one reason we chose the house) I will definitely keep them in two weeks minimum and hope I can keep them entertained with toys as much as possible. House is full of Feliway and they have Calm food, so they’re not upset - just irritated!

OP posts:
villainousbroodmare · 08/03/2018 11:47

I really don't understand what is supposed to be the significant difference between say one and three weeks.

retirednow · 08/03/2018 11:50

Our was out as soon as she found an open window and came back. I would go out for a walk with them to give them confidence and help them find their way round.

viccat · 08/03/2018 12:15

The reason for it is to let the cat properly settle into the house and learn to see it as his territory. It's especially important if your previous home is reasonably near to stop them trying to return there or getting confused.

By the way it's much safer to have a catflap than not - it allows for them to return if they feel threatened or are chased by other animals or people.

ifonly4 · 09/03/2018 14:58

We kept ours in for two weeks, as my boy was desperate to go out. However, we were able to block gaps, so only had to worry about them going over. We stayed out with them initially. The recommended time is three weeks though.

If you've got them micro chipped, don't forget to register your change of details.

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