Page 42 - Selling your Home - The CommFREE guide to all you need to know

LOCKING HOUDINI IN

As harsh as it may seem, the house will need to be on complete lock down for your cat as she

first starts to look around. Ensure all windows and doors are closed so that she can't get out. If
you let her outside too soon, she may wander off too far and get lost or even attempt to make
her way back to the old house. It can be a difficult task but it is best that you try not to let your
cat outside for a few weeks until she has settled and bonded with the new home. To reassure
your cat, give her small and frequent meals so she has more contact with you and feels

comforted.

FREEDOM

Before you let your cat outside in the new garden for the first time, we would advise you

getting your cat some form of identification. Make sure she has a collar with her name and
address, or if you haven't already, ask your vet to microchip your cat in the event she gets lost,
so she can be returned to you. When you first introduce your cat to her new garden, go outside
with her and keep an eye on her in the first instance to make sure she doesn't wander off and
can't find her way back. The best time to do this is before your cat's mealtimes. Once she has

explored her new territory, she will be tempted to come back into the house by the familiar and
joyous sound of the rattling food box as well as the delightful whiff.

HOME FROM HOME

If your new house is only a few streets away from your old one, it's possible that when your cat

goes outside, she might come across some familiar smells and routes that lead it back to your
old house. This usually means they haven't yet bonded with their new home. In this instance, all
you can do is be patient and try to keep your cat indoors until they feel safe and until your
house becomes their territory. You may also want to warn the residents of your old house that

your cat might make an appearance, and to call you if that happens. If your cat does end up
going back to your old house, ask the residents to avoid stroking or feeding your cat, so as not
to encourage her to go back or stay there. You may need to warn them if your cat is a charmer
and tell them not to fall for it.

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The CommFREE Guide to Selling your Home