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How to keep my cat from running away after we move to a new home?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Male

I'm going to be moving in 3 months to a new place but I heard that cats run away from their home... If this is true what can I do to stop that from happening?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 1st, 2019

Yes, this can potentially happen with indoor / outdoor cats. If they move to a new area and get lost outside, they may try and find their previous home. I typically recommend keeping cats indoors for several months before letting them outside so they familiarize themselves with the new area.

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

    Veterinary Technician

    Published on June 12th, 2018

    If you are moving, it may be a good idea to make sure you have a room you can keep your cat in safely for a few days to help her settle into the new location. Using a pheromone diffuser such as Comfort Zone can help reduce stress during the transition and make her a little more comfortable indoors. If she allows it, using a harness and leash to let her check out the new yard without being able to run away may help her transition, or adding in a catio or other enclosed place where she can safely check out the new digs. Making sure she is up to date on any vaccines and flea treatment is also beneficial to keeping her health once she has settled in and explores the outdoors again.

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