Moving w/4 cats

[IBKleen]

Hi All,

Hubby and I are moving next week and will (of course) be taking our 4 girls with us. We have 4 carriers so they each have their individual space and we will be taking two cars with two cats in each car. We will each be bringing a small litter box and fresh water and lots of paper towels. It is a 12 hour ride so we figured we would stop 3 times to let them use the box and give them a splash of water. We thought it best not to feed them during the trip.

I am a wreck thinking that they will be uncomfortable and want to do whatever I can to make this a smooth transition. Any additional suggestions would be so helpful and very much appreciated. Thanks!

[LindaTX]

I hope your kitties have chips.  I think that's always a good idea.  The "safe" room is a great idea integrating them into the new home.  You don't want them getting confused and trying to find their way back to the old home.  I know I sound like an alarmist but i just want you and your kitties to have a safe and uneventful trip.  I'm sure they'll adjust just fine since they know you will be there with them.  Have you chosen a Vet in the new area yet?

[spirit3]

We've only moved our cats around town with us and what we did was move them first and put them in a room with a door that shuts securely while we get everything set up, then let them out to explore. That way they come out to stuff they're familiar with and can explore at their leisure. We show them where their pans will be and their food station. Normally, they whine to get out of the "safe room" wanting to know what we're doing, then when we open the door they just sit there!  Of course, the safe room has a pan and food & water supply for them while we get settled. And this is just while we set up the big main stuff where they could get injured being underfoot-and don't forget kitties love empty boxes-safety first when you're unpacking!! Congrats on your move.

[opus88]

your so welcome.....sure hope it works well for your babies. have a great trip and please do keep us posted, travel safe with your very precious cargo indeed ♥

[IBKleen]

opus, OMG...thank you so very much. I just purchased it and had it shipped overnight. My nerves are shot trying to transport my "precious cargo".

Again, I cannot thank you enough. I am leaving on the 27th at first light. I will post when I get to the hotel. something tells me I owe you dinner!!!! And it will not be Friskies!!! rofl

[opus88]

health food stores or even some Vet clinics, I don't think petsmart does(?) just be VERY sure its the alcohol free one if you find it anywhere....b/c Bach and others make one for us humans too but that one has alcohol....

[margypops]

I also will be moving within the next 2 months after I sell my house, about an 8 hour drive so I am interested in any ideas.I like that idea of the homeopathic prep. opus mentioned . what stores sell it Petsmart?.

[opus88]

that should have read MUNCH not much....gotta slow the typo's down..

[opus88]

YES YES I do have a suggestion....used widely by holistic pet owners and most Vets too. Its a homeopathic prep called RESCUE REMEDY by BACH..be sure to get this one the ALCOHOL FREE one...its excellent for any stressful event such as trip to the Vet or car trips etc. cost is $11 through iherb if you can't find it locally.

http://www.iherb.com/Bach-Original-Flower-Essences-Rescue-Remedy-Pet-10-ml-0-35-fl-oz-Dropper/10604?at=0

you just add a few drops onto a treat or into their drinking water....completely safe. the alternative would be a sedative and that can have side effects but in extreme cases also a thought.
IBK, I wouldn't take away their food for the full trip...some kitties love to much when nervous, as long as its kept to a min amount you wouldn't need to worry about nausea.
Happy travelling to both your families.....((>^.^<))

[Piparskeggr]

I'll be interested in this, too.

Depending upon how things work our for Anita in her job search, we'll be transporting Teia (13 2/12), Kessie (11 10/12), Hildie (10 3/12) and Chessie (9 7/12) anywhere from 8 - 20 hours...