Moving to a new home with your feline friend? Whether you're heading to your first apartment or upgrading to a larger space, we'll help you make the transition smooth for both you and your cat while keeping your security deposit safe. 🏠🐱
Before the Move: Smart Planning Saves Deposits
Two Weeks Before
- Take photos of your current cat-related wear and tear
- Document your new place's existing condition
- Order furniture protection supplies:
- Corner guards
- Furniture protectors
- Scratch deterrent solutions
- Check lease terms regarding pet modifications
One Week Before
- Create a detailed floor plan for:
- Litter box placement
- Scratching post locations
- Safe spaces and hiding spots
- Furniture arrangement
Pro Tip: Many landlords appreciate proactive pet parents! Let them know you're installing pet-friendly protection – it shows you're a responsible tenant.
The Critical First 48 Hours
Day One: Setting Up Your Cat's Safe Room
- Choose a quiet room as home base
- Install protective measures before releasing your cat:
- Corner guards on baseboards
- Furniture protectors on vulnerable surfaces
- Window sill guards
- Add familiar items:
- Their favorite bed
- Trusted scratching post
- Familiar toys
- Fresh litter box
Day Two: Controlled Exploration
- Gradually open access to other protected rooms
- Monitor scratching patterns
- Address any stress behaviors immediately
- Maintain consistent feeding schedule
Apartment-Friendly Protection Solutions
Temporary Solutions (Landlord-Approved!)
- Transparent furniture shields
- Removable corner guards
- Double-sided training tape
- Portable scratching posts
Permanent Options (If Allowed)
- Mounted scratching posts
- Window perches
- Built-in cat shelving
- Door frame protectors
Small Space Solutions That Work
Studio Apartments
- Use vertical space for cat activities
- Choose multi-purpose cat furniture
- Install window perches for space-saving lounging
- Protect walls in high-traffic areas
One-Bedroom Solutions
- Create designated cat zones
- Use room dividers as scratch stations
- Protect door frames between rooms
- Guard window sills in all rooms
Rental Furniture Protection
Special considerations for furnished apartments:
- Document existing wear before moving in
- Use extra protection on rented pieces
- Focus on reversible solutions
- Keep original furniture covers
Security Deposit Success Strategies
Documentation Is Your Friend
- Take dated photos of:
- All protected surfaces
- Existing damage
- Your protection installations
- Keep receipts for protection products
- Document communication with landlord
Monthly Maintenance
- Check and adjust protectors
- Document any changes
- Address wear spots immediately
- Keep photos of maintenance
Cost-Saving Breakdown
Average Security Deposit Deductions
- Scratched doors: $200-400
- Damaged carpet: $300-1000
- Windowsill damage: $100-300
- Wall damage: $200-500
Prevention Costs
- Complete protection kit: $50-100
- Professional installation: $0 (DIY friendly!)
- Monthly maintenance: $10-20
- Potential savings: $700-2000
Dealing with Stressed Scratching
Moving is stressful! Help your cat cope:
- Maintain routine
- Provide extra scratching options
- Use calming pheromone products
- Create multiple hiding spots
Your First Week Timeline
Day 1-2
- Set up safe room
- Install basic protection
- Maintain routine
Day 3-4
- Expand territory
- Add scratching posts
- Monitor behavior
Day 5-7
- Complete home access
- Adjust protection as needed
- Establish new routines
Expert Tips for Long-Term Success
-
Prevention First
- Install protection before issues arise
- Create positive associations with new spaces
- Maintain consistent scratching locations
-
Monitor and Adjust
- Watch for new scratching spots
- Adjust protection as needed
- Document any changes
-
Build Trust
- Keep routines consistent
- Provide plenty of attention
- Reward good behavior
Special Considerations
Multi-Cat Households
- Create multiple territories
- Provide separate resources
- Install extra protection
- Monitor interactions
High-Rise Apartments
- Secure windows
- Create vertical space
- Protect balcony areas
- Consider catio options
Ready to Make Your Move?
Remember, a well-protected home means a happy cat and a full security deposit return! 🏠✨
Need specific advice for your move? Drop us a comment below or reach out to our customer care team. We're here to help make your move successful!