How Long To Keep Them In?

[Palustris]

We have moved house with our three cats. So, how long do we keep them in the new place before allowing them out? I have seen 6 to 8 weeks suggested, but that seems very long to us.

[spathiphyllum]

as long as possible but at the very least 2 weeks.

[spathiphyllum]

"Cats need time to adjust and settle if you move house. They could get into serious danger trying to return to their previous home. To prevent this, keep cats indoors for at least two weeks after moving. Ensure your cat's behaviour has settled before letting them outside.
"

https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/cats/environment

[pixie374]

I kept mine in for 10 days. I thought it would be longer, but they seemed settled and were a little wary about going out at all. They didn't go far. Maybe aim for 2 weeks to be safe.

[Palustris]

Thanks, we thought about 2 weeks. They do seem to be settling in here and not trying to dig their way out.

[pixie374]

And wait until their food time before you first let them out so they are keen to come back :-). Good luck x

[4candles]

We've moved with cats several times, and a week has been enough.
It's an old tradition that buttering their paws before letting them out prevents them dashing off in a panic - they're too busy washing. It's always worked for us.

[josephdfox5]

It's important that your cat stays confined to the house for at least two weeks as this will allow them time to get used to their new territory. If your cat is very confident and you feel they are getting frustrated at being kept indoors then you can consider letting them out a bit earlier, but only by a few days.

[237SJ]

My Puss (who moved a couple of times) only needed about 5 days the first time. Every cat is different.

[Prudie]

Yes every cat is different and depends on how much they were wanderers before. I've moved with cats successfully many times but did have one who repeatedly went back to our old house as it was only half a mile away. Sadly, even though he'd been the most affectionate and devoted cat (I thought) he eventually chose to stay away permanently. I'm guessing you don't have entire males as they are most likely to to wander off.

[jakep]

When I “worked” with Cats Protection, I was told to advise people to keep their cats in for a month. Admittedly they were rescue cats being rehomed.
I have only ever kept them in for two weeks maximum....rescues and house moves

[ladybirder]

I always play safe unless they do something to change my mind. A month for me, but a nervous cat probably wouldn't go out until they were ready whether you allowed them to or not. You know your cats, we don't, so you will have to make the judgement. Good luck with that;-)