MOVING WITH YOUR CAT

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Before the Move Cats can have a very difficult time with the process of moving, both in terms of the traveling and getting used to a new home. When their daily schedule is disrupted, cats can become nervous and may behave strangely. A new environment can also be a major source of anxiety for a cat, and it may take some time before your cat gets readjusted.

Try to make everything as normal as possible in the days leading to your move, feeding and playing with your cat as usual. Try to keep the schedule uninterrupted despite all of the arrangements you’re making for the move itself. If your cat is known to be especially prone to nervousness and anxiety, you may want to ask a friend to care for your cat during the time surrounding your move. This may help reduce the chances of it getting upset, running away or hiding in one of the moving boxes. This could also help cut down on the stress for your cat. Many states require a Health Certificate. For more information, check with your veterinarian or the State Regulatory Agency located in your new state.

Moving your Cat by Car

Purchase a proper carrier that is large enough for your cat’s comfort. Your cat will be less nervous if you place it in a carrier, and it is unsafe to allow the animal to freely roam throughout the car when you are driving.

While riding in the car, remember to keep your power windows locked to prevent your cat from lowering the window and jumping out. If your car does not have air conditioning, leave the windows cracked 1-1 1/2 inches.

Pet Pack Checklist

Take a supply of water from your home; different water on the road can cause upset stomachs for cats.
Foods, pet treats, can opener and a dish.
An old bed sheet or blanket to protect your car upholstery.
Medication your cat may need.
Paper towels and a sponge just in case your cat gets car sick.
Grooming brush and/or comb.
Scooper and plenty of plastic bags.
Room deodorizer for hotel rooms.

Moving your Cat by Air

Contact your airline to determine the necessary requirements for traveling with a cat. Airlines that accept cats for transportation have specific regulations whether they are accompanied or not. Some airlines allow cats inside the passenger cabin (first come, first serve basis); keep in mind that your cat will have to be placed in a pet carrier no longer than 21″x18″x8″, small enough to fit under the seat. Be sure to ask about transportation charges and pet insurance.

Travel Checklist

Remember to have all required health documents.
Make sure the Identification Tag is attached to your cat.
Have a recent photo of your cat with you.
Pet container in order and that complies with airline regulations – Write the words “FRAGILE – LIVE ANIMAL” and “THIS SIDE UP”.
Feed your cat a light meal 5-6 hours before flight time; but do not give it water 2 hours prior to take-off, except on very hot days.
After placing your cat in the carrier, be sure to secure the closing mechanism.
Unless it is absolutely necessary, it is best not to sedate your cat.

Arriving at your New Home

When you arrive at the new home, be prepared to give special attention to your cat. Examine the house and its outdoor areas to ensure that nothing presents a potential hazard for your cat. Close doors and windows so that your cat can’t get out; nervous cats are especially prone to taking off out of fear. Be present when the cat is released from its travel carrier for the first time, and speak to the cat in soothing, gentle tones.
Encourage your cat to investigate its new home, but don’t allow it to go outside immediately. It is a good idea to keep your pet confined until it realizes that this is a new home; it may wander off and try to return to the old home. Once your cat is better familiarized with the inside of its home, you can begin taking it outside on a few supervised excursions. Eventually, your cat will be comfortable enough with its surroundings that it will be able to come and go on its own again.

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What is included in every move?

At Nationwide Van Lines we bring something else to the table. We recognize that a successful move needs to always include a few basic services.

Protection of your home

We protect your floors with floor protectors and stair protectors while making sure to leave every surface scratch-free.
We also protect door jams, rails, and corners.
Our crews cover any area, inside and outside of your home, that needs protection.

Flat Pricing

We pack your furniture in industry-specific moving blankets. All moves include meticulous packing of all your non-fragile furniture to ensure safe travel to your destination.
We also safely pack your fragile glass and other delicate or special fragile items in addition to giving you the option of wood crates for high-value items. Please consult your nationwide Van Lines representative to make them aware of fragile or special items.

Furniture protection

We pack your furniture in our moving blankets. All moves include packing for all your non-fragile furniture to ensure safe travel to your destination.
We safely pack fragile glass or special items and give you the option of wood crates for high-value items. Please consult your representative to make them aware of fragile or special items.

Reliable and professional staff

Every member of Nationwide Van Lines is dedicated to overseeing your move with the utmost professionalism. From the office staff that provides estimates and customer service to our highly trained and background checked packing and loading crew-we are all committed to making sure your move is successful and stress-free.

Founder And President — Tali Maskalik

No matter if you’re relocating within the same neighborhood or overseas, moving can be pretty stressing. In fact, moving is repeatedly ranked as the third most stressful life event and sometimes seems to be completely overwhelming. On top of moving, you often have to deal with realtors, mortgage financing and even finding a great school for your kids. To keep all the moving components tracked and timely, organization is a big must. Utilizing a filing system is a great way to keep... Read More