Moving to a new home can be a nerve-racking experience for anyone, but it can become even more difficult if you are moving with your cat. Since cats enjoy being some place where they are comfortable and familiar with their surroundings, it comes as no surprise that your cat may be nervous when you bring them to your new home.
Even when you set up a room specifically for them with essentials such as a litter box, scratch post, hiding spots, and plenty of food and water, they may feel a lot of anxiety over the move. If you're uncertain whether their anxiety is higher than normal, keep a look out for some of the following signs that they are not taking the move well.
Itching Skin or Missing Fur
Many cats start the habit of itching their skin, not as a result of fleas or ticks, but due to stress over a recent change in their life. Some cats may itch or lick their skin so roughly that they begin pulling hair out, making it more likely than infection could occur which would need veterinary attention.
With this in mind, you need to make sure that you stop your cat as soon as you notice them messing with their coat or skin more than normal. A visit to the vet can help provide you with something to soothe their skin as they recover.
Overeating or Undereating
Any change in the amount of food that your cat is eating is another cause for concern, especially since drastic weight gains or losses can lead to other health problems, such as anemia or diabetes. Avoid free-feeding your cat and monitor how much they are eating to make sure that they are getting the food they need.
Withdrawal from Usual Activities
If your cat usually likes looking out the window or playing with toys, it's important that you take note if they suddenly withdrawal from these activities since this could be a sign of depression.
Negative Change in Personality
Anxiety in your cat can also lead to them taking out their frustration on you or other members of your family by swiping or biting. These negative changes in their personality can be upsetting and even dangerous if you have young children, making it important for a vet to prescribe them with an anxiety medication or other solution.
With the amount of stress that cats can experience during a move, it makes sense to schedule a visit to a vet if you notice any of the above signs -- before any anxiety can worsen. For additional reading, explore your local vet's website and other online resources.
