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Is my cat unhappy after moving to a smaller space? How to tell.

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

I just moved from a one story ranch style house to a single wide trailer, and I'm worried about my 1 year old cat being unhappy because of the smaller space, I've had him since he was 2 weeks old so the previous house was all he's known. He seems like he's wanting a lot more attention since the move. How to I know if he's not happy, do cats really care if they are moved to a mich smaller space?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on November 18th, 2016

Fortunately, cats don't usually seem to mind having a smaller indoor space to live in - they spend the majority of their day resting or sleeping, with bouts of play or other activity in between, so normally they don't need a large living space. But, moving to a new home can definitely be stressful for them, since they are often easily upset by any changes to their environment or daily routine - so I would imagine that your kitty is simply adjusting to the move. You can spend some extra time petting or playing with him for the next couple of weeks to help him settle in. You may also want to try a Feliway pheromone diffuser to help encourage him to relax and feel like your new home is "his".

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    Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on February 24th, 2018

    If the cats will be required to stay confined to this small space, you will need to make sure they get plenty of activity through playing. Try to keep consistency in the type and timing of food, and keep the same litter and box available. You can use a pheromone supplement to help with the transition ( http://m.pet-supplies.drsfostersmith.com/search?w=feliway%20for%20cats ). There is no way to know what issues could occur, so let us know as soon as something goes wrong so we can help you troubleshoot it!

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    Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 13th, 2019

    He is probably a bit stressed from the move. I suggest you get some Feliway diffusers for your new apartment. Feliway is calming pheromones that really help when cats are stressed. ( https://www.feliway.com/us/Products/FELIWAY-CLASSIC-Diffuser )

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