Choosing a New Home with Your Cat in Mind: Key Tips

Moving house is a significant life event that demands careful planning, especially when you share your home with a beloved cat. Choosing a new home with your cat in mind sets the foundation for a smooth, stress-free transition that prioritises your feline's comfort and safety.

This guide will explore key considerations—from legal pet policies to the environment inside and outside your new home—to help you make informed decisions that benefit both you and your cat.

1. Understand Regulations and Rules

When searching for a rental property, always ask about pet policies early on to avoid wasting time on properties that do not allow cats. Plenty of landlords are open to cats even if they exclude dogs, especially in private rentals.

If purchasing a leasehold property such as an apartment, check whether the managing company has specific pet restrictions. While outright bans on cats are rare, rules often cover pet numbers and behaviour in communal areas.

2. Assess the Interior for Your Cat’s Needs

Cats adapt well to smaller living spaces but appreciate certain features. Seek out rooms that can be closed off to safely confine your cat when needed, and check for existing or potential installation of a cat flap to enable controlled outdoor access.

Plan the placement of your cat’s favourite resting spots, feeding area, and litter tray. Homes with windows that your cat can see through and high ledges or room for large scratching posts and climbing furniture help your cat feel secure and entertained.

3. Inspect the Yard or Garden for Safety

If the property includes a garden or yard, inspect it thoroughly for hazards such as toxic plants. Some common garden plants can be harmful to cats, so be prepared to remove or replace them.

Check fencing or walls to ensure they are cat-safe and provide protection from stray dogs or wildlife. Well-secured boundaries minimise risks of your cat escaping or encountering dangers. If there’s no fenced land, nearby natural cover such as hedges offer safe outdoor exploration and places to hide.

4. Consider the Surrounding Area

Living close to a busy road poses risks, especially if your cat needs to cross it to access outdoor spaces. If unavoidable, homes with back doors leading to safe, enclosed green areas are preferable.

Also, observe if common outdoor areas nearby are frequently used by dog owners. This requires careful assessment of your cat’s potential outdoor safety and the chance of stressful encounters.

5. Evaluate the Presence of Dogs in the Neighbourhood

Neighbours’ pets impact your cat’s safety and wellbeing. Investigate if surrounding properties have loose or free-roaming dogs which might intimidate or threaten your cat.

Communicating with neighbours about their pets allows you to gauge how safe and cat-friendly the area is. If many dogs are present and uncontrollable, consider whether this suits your cat’s temperament.

6. Access to Local Pet Facilities and Services

Before committing, ensure you have easy access to veterinary care, pet sitters, and other services vital for your cat’s health and happiness. Good local support is especially important if you travel or work long hours.

7. Planning the Move and Settling In

Once you have chosen a suitable home, plan the move to reduce stress on your cat. Start by setting up a dedicated "kitty corner" or safe, quiet room with your cat’s familiar bedding, toys, and litter tray. Gradually introduce other areas as your cat feels more comfortable in the new environment.

Maintain consistent feeding times and routines, and avoid forcing exploration. Using familiar scents and comforting objects helps your cat adjust warmly to their new home.

Ultimately, selecting a new home with your cat’s unique needs in mind ensures a safe, loving environment where they can thrive and feel truly at home.

Considering pet-friendly rentals? Learn how to find one with our guide on puppies listings and cockapoo breeders for more pet-owner insights.