Cats are creatures of habit. You find them sitting in the same window each morning, sleeping in the same spot each afternoon. Moving to a new house can be extremely stressful for them.

To make your cat as calm and comfortable as possible, put a cat carrier with a soft towel in it near the place where she usually sleeps for a week or two before the move so she can get used to it. She might even climb in and nap there.

On moving day, keep her sequestered in one room so the movers don’t frighten her or let her out; it’s a good idea to tape a sign on the door. Your pet will be calmer when it’s time to finally leave.

Once at your new house, put the animal in a bedroom and close the door to let her get used to the sounds and smells of the new place. Make sure you have her favorite food, water and usual cat litter. And if you buy a collar printed with your new address and phone, you’ll be better prepared if your cat slips out to explore the new neighborhood.