Moving House With a Cat: 10 Essentials to Make the Move Less Stressful
Cats are more than just pets – they're family.
As cat owners, we spend years learning their little habits, favourite sleeping spots and unique personalities. That's why moving house can feel just as stressful for us as it does for them. While we're busy organising boxes, paperwork and moving day logistics, our cats are trying to make sense of a completely unfamiliar environment.
Cats thrive on routine and familiar surroundings, so it's no surprise that moving house can be a challenging experience for many of them. New smells, new sounds and a sudden change in territory can leave even the most confident cat feeling unsettled.
As a cat mum myself, one of my biggest worries during our move wasn't the packing or the paperwork – it was how my cat would cope with such a big change. I spent weeks researching ways to make the transition easier and gathering a few essentials that could help her feel safe, comfortable and at home as quickly as possible.
The good news is that with a little preparation, moving house with a cat doesn't have to be overwhelming. In this guide, we'll share some of the products that helped us create a calmer, more reassuring environment and made settling into our new home a little easier for everyone involved – including our four-legged family member. 🐾🏡
Our Favourite Products for Moving House With a Cat
1. Cat toy:
My favourite: KONG Refillable Catnip Hedgehog Cat Toy; https://amzn.to/4fJTtHq
One of my cat's favourites. This cute hedgehog toy is filled with premium catnip and designed to encourage play, chasing and batting around the house.
The refillable design means the fun can continue long after the original catnip loses its appeal, making it a toy you'll get plenty of use from.
The catnip-filled hedgehog helped keep her busy and distracted while we unpacked, making those first few days in a new home a little easier.
Why I like it: Affordable, refillable and surprisingly effective at keeping curious cats entertained. 🐾🦔
2. Cat treats:
My pick: WOTOBVZ Calming Cat Treats; https://amzn.to/3RXpB0n
These calming treats can be a helpful option for anxious cats during a house move. Made with ingredients designed to promote relaxation, they're an easy way to provide a little extra reassurance during a stressful transition.
Why I like it: A simple, fuss-free option for cats who may feel unsettled by new surroundings, unfamiliar smells and changes to their routine
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Budget-Friendly Option: Beaphar Calming Spot On; https://amzn.to/49VFs5D
If you're looking for a more affordable option, these calming spot-on drops are worth considering. They use natural ingredients to help reduce stress and can be especially useful during moving house, travel or other changes in routine. An inexpensive way to help create a calmer environment for your cat without spending a fortune.
3. Scratching Posts:
My pick: Multi-Level Cat Tree with Scratching Posts; https://amzn.to/4uBLcsS
A cat tree is one of those purchases that combines several essentials in one place. This multi-level design gives cats somewhere to climb, scratch, play and relax throughout the day.
With multiple platforms and cosy resting spots, it's a great option for curious cats who like to keep an eye on everything happening around them.
Why I like it: It combines a scratching post, climbing frame and nap spot all in one. 🐱🏡
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Premium Option: Feandrea Cat Tree; https://amzn.to/4vEo2mu
A luxurious multi-level cat tower designed for climbing, scratching, and relaxing, featuring plush hideaways, elevated perches, a cosy hammock, and plenty of space for even the most adventurous feline. 🐱✨🏡
4. Cat Scratcher products:
My pick: Cat House Scratcher (Premium Option); https://amzn.to/3S2djnq
Let's be honest – most cats are obsessed with cardboard boxes. This clever cat house combines a cosy hideaway with a built-in scratching surface, creating a fun little space many cats will happily claim as their own.
It's lightweight, easy to move around the house and looks surprisingly cute too.
Why I like it: It feels like the luxury version of the cardboard boxes cats already love. 😸📦
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Budget-Friendly Option: Aibuddy Cat Scratcher Bed; https://amzn.to/4vQeKE8
If you're looking for something simple and affordable, this scratcher bed is a great choice. It doubles as a scratching surface and a comfortable lounging spot, giving your cat somewhere cosy to relax. A practical option that doesn't take up much space.
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My pick: CheerPals Sisal Cat Scratcher Bed; https://amzn.to/4uEL1Nj
This scratcher bed combines a comfortable resting spot with a durable sisal scratching surface. Unlike cardboard scratchers, it creates less mess around the house and is designed to last longer.
Why I like it: A practical two-in-one solution that works as both a cat bed and a scratcher. 🐾✨
5. Cat Bed:
My pick: Soft Plush Cat Bed; https://amzn.to/4vGYQM4
Who doesn't love a cosy bed? This plush cat bed features a super-soft interior and raised edges that create a comfortable spot for curling up and napping. The neutral design looks lovely in most homes, while the lightweight construction makes it easy to move from room to room.
Why I like it: Soft, cosy and perfect for lazy cat afternoons. 🐾💤
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Budget-Friendly Option: Bedsure Cat Bed; https://amzn.to/4ve2nBK
A soft and cosy washable cat bed with a reversible cushion and non-slip base, providing year-round comfort and security for indoor cats. 🐱🛏️
6. Cat Carrier:
My pick: Cat Carrier; https://amzn.to/4aK7AsE
Every cat owner needs a good carrier sooner or later. Whether it's moving day, a vet appointment or a family trip, having a sturdy carrier makes life much easier. This carrier features secure locks, plenty of ventilation and a durable design that's built to last.
Why I like it: Practical, reliable and something you'll use for years. 🐾🚗
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Budget-Friendly Option: Kerbl Transport Box Expedion; https://amzn.to/4enJPrA
A lightweight and secure pet carrier with a sturdy plastic door, providing a comfortable and affordable way to transport your cat safely. 🐾🚗
7. Cat Litter Tray:
My pick: Stainless Steel Enclosed Cat Litter Tray; https://amzn.to/3SjKOl5
A litter tray might not be the most exciting purchase, but it's certainly one of the most important. This enclosed design helps keep things tidy, while the stainless steel base is durable and easy to clean.
I also like that it looks much more modern than many traditional plastic litter trays.
Why I like it: A practical upgrade that makes everyday life a little easier. 🐾✨
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Budget-Friendly Option: Stainless Steel High-Sided Cat Litter Box with Lid https://amzn.to/4etCSW6
The Stainless Steel High-Sided Cat Litter Box is a practical and affordable choice for cat owners. Its durable metal construction helps prevent odours, reduces mess, and is much easier to clean than traditional plastic litter trays, making it a long-lasting investment for both you and your cat. 🐾
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Final Thoughts
Moving house with a cat can feel a little daunting, especially when you're trying to balance packing, paperwork and everything else that comes with a move.
The good news is that a few well-chosen essentials can make a real difference. Whether it's a favourite toy, a cosy bed, a sturdy carrier or a comfortable scratching spot, small comforts can help your cat feel more at home while they adjust to their new surroundings.
Every cat is different, and what works for one may not work for another. The products featured in this guide are simply a few of the items that caught my eye while preparing for our own move and researching ways to make the transition a little smoother.
Most importantly, don't forget to be patient. Give your cat plenty of reassurance, stick to familiar routines where possible and allow them time to explore at their own pace.
Before long, they'll be claiming every sunny windowsill, cosy corner and favourite nap spot in your new home.
Looking for more pet-friendly moving tips? Check out our guide to How to moving house with pets Movly, where we share practical advice to help make the transition smoother for both you and your furry friends. 🐾🏡