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Relocation Guidelines

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Relocated cats who escape from their new home upon arrival will usually take off, never to be seen again, and may then suffer from starvation, freezing or worse. Thus, cats MUST learn where their new home is by being contained in an escape-proof shed, room, or cage for a temporary confinement period.

  • Escape-proof area: Cats can escape through tiny holes, so do not count on a barn being escape proof. Relocators should always take cages; and be very careful in moving the cats from carriers to cages. During the first day or two, the cats may struggle to get out out of a cage, but they will settle down in a few days if they have food, water, and safety, and even a few familiar objects.
  • Three week average: Successful confinement periods range from 2 to 4 weeks; and 3 weeks is a good average. Longer confinement periods can cause the cats to run away once they are finally free.
    • St. Francis of Assisi
    Patron Saint of Animals

    Franciscan Pet Blessing
    Blessed are you, Lord God,
    maker of all living creatures.
    You inspired St. Francis to call all animals
    his brothers and sisters.
    We ask you to bless this animal.
    By the power of your love,
    enable it to live according to your plan.
    Amen.

  • Talking, feeding, protecting: During the confinement period, (1) get the cats used to voices by talking to them or by playing a radio, (2) provide water and both canned and dry food, (3) clean the litter, and (4) protect the cats from harsh weather and other animals. After release, ensure the cats have water, food, and good shelter, including sources of warmth in the winter and shade in the summer.
  • Hiding places: The confinement room or cage should be near some "hidey holes". Cats often like to run and hide once they are released. They will come out of hiding more and more each day. They will get used to going to the same place for their food. Well-fed cats are better hunters and stay at home.
  • In case of escape: If a cat does escape, make sure food and water is left out and that the used cat litter (for scent) is sprinkled around the barn. In such cases, cats often hide for a long time, but will stay on the premises if their needs are met there; and they will gradually come out of hiding.
  • Established colony: Introduce new cats into an existing colony slowly. Confine the new cats to a cage near where the existing cats eat and sleep. After 2 to 3 weeks, both groups will be familiar with each other; and when the new cats are released, all cats should live together in relative peace.

    Follow-up
    Relocators should call or visit after the relocation. Also, they should stay in touch to make sure the cats are fine and to maintain good contact for possible future relocations.

    Success factors
    In a survey, Alley Cat Allies found that relocated cats remained at the new site as a result of four main factors:

  • Cats were confined for 2-4 weeks in large cages, sheds, barns, basements, or escape-proof shelters.
  • Cats were fed canned food every day for at least 2-6 weeks instead of just dry food.
  • Several cats from the same colony were relocated together.
  • The new caretaker made frequent (minimum twice daily) verbal attempts to bond with the cats.

    Note: Guidelines above, adapted from information in http://www.alleycat.org, are geared toward relocating feral cats, but can be modified for other uses. Thus, cats can get used to a new house by starting them out in a small room; or they can be introduced to the garden by using a cage or harness for an orientation period.