About Teresa Expertise I can answer questions about cat breeding, animal husbandry, raising orphan kittens and kitten delivery. General health questions and shipping animals.
Experience I have worked 10 years as a vet assistant, I have also been breeding and showing Abyssinian Cats since 1982 and previous to that I was breeding purebred English Setters and Persian cats.
Organizations TICA, CFA, ACCA
Education/Credentials I have been trained as a Veterinary Assistant and I have a marketing degree and some pre Vet education.
Question I am currently moving from Florida to Tennessee. In Florida we live in a neighborhood with a quarter acre yard. But the place we're moving to has four acres, and lots of forest around it. Anyway, I have a cat that's 5 1/2. I've had her since she was weaned(even knew the owners of the parent cat). And she's indoor/outdoor. She comes inside to sleep, eat, and drink, and goes out side when she wants to run around.
We already know how we're going to transport her, but, when we get up there, I'm not sure what to do with her. If I let her outside, I'm afraid she'll try to find her way back. I was thinking keep her in the house or barn till she knows it's home, and then take her outside, but watch her, and gradually have her get used to the new home? I'm not sure, what should I do?
Answer Hi Rain, Thank you for the question.
When you first move there I would recommend you keep her in one room in the house for a day or two. This prevents any accidental escape while unloading and unpacking. Things can get pretty hectic when moving and there are often strangers going in and out of the house helping you. After the first 2 days and you are settled and the home is quieter I would recommend giving her the house to explore for at least a week. Personally I don't believe in letting cats out of the house just because there are so many dangers... out there !
But if you want to let her out after she is calm and comfortable about the new house I would use a harness and leash. She won't like the harness at first. Most cats lay on the floor like they are dying and/or paralyzed for a couple of hours.. then they spend the next couple of hours trying to get it off. Be patient. Once she has calmed down about the harness just tie a piece of rope or a leash to her and carry her outside and walk around with her. Then sit outside with her for a bit with her safely on the end of the tether. After a few days of this she should be fine to let loose on the property.
Teresa
