Moving Home With Pets

Moving house is exciting… but it can be a stressful time for every member of your family, even the furry ones. Pets thrive on routine and familiar surroundings, so a change of home can be confusing or unsettling for them. With a little planning and care, you can make your move smoother, calmer and more positive for your dog, cat or other companion animals.

Before the Big Day: Prepare & Plan

1. Keep Routines Consistent
Pets find comfort in familiar patterns. Try to keep feeding times, walks and play sessions as close to normal as possible in the days leading up to your move.

2. Create a “Safe Space”
Choose one quiet room in your current home and gradually introduce your pet to that space ahead of moving day. Place their bed, toys, bowls and litter tray there, this becomes their calm spot while packing and moving are underway.

3. Consider Help for Nervous Pets
If your pet gets anxious with noise, strangers or changes, it might be worth asking a trusted friend or family member to look after them on moving day. Alternatively, a day at a kennel or cattery can give them a stress-free break while you focus on the move.

4. Prepare for Travel
Whether your pet is going in a carrier, dog crate or safely restrained with a seat belt harness, make sure they’re comfortable and secure. Bring water, a collapsible bowl, and familiar toys for reassurance on the journey.

On Moving Day: Keep Calm & Safe

1. Set Up Their Space First
Before letting them explore the new house, make one room ready with familiar items, bedding, water, toys and food, so your pet has a safe, comforting place to go when they arrive.

2. Avoid Overfeeding Before Travel
Feeding large meals right before travel can make pets feel nauseous. Instead, stick to small feeds earlier in the day to avoid tummy upsets.

3. Minimise Stress & Noise
Moving day can be loud and chaotic with boxes, trucks and people coming and going. Close doors securely, check in on your pet regularly, and use calming toys or chew treats to keep them occupied and relaxed.

4. Safety First
Ensure doors and windows are always closed behind you, scared pets can slip out unnoticed during busy moments. Keep collars on with up-to-date ID tags, and make sure microchip information is updated to your new address.

Settling Into Your New Home

1. Let Pets Explore at Their Pace
Some pets adapt quickly, but others may need time. Let them explore room by room, on their terms, rather than forcing them into unfamiliar territory.

2. Garden & Outdoor Safety
Make sure outdoor areas are fully secure before letting pets explore. Walk dogs on a lead around the new garden first, and keep cats indoors for a few weeks — this helps them familiarise themselves safely with their territory.

3. Stick to Familiar Routines
Return to your usual feeding, play and walk schedules as soon as possible. Familiar rhythms help reassure pets that right now, “home” is safe and predictable.

4. Be Patient & Reassuring
Moving is a big change. Offer lots of love, attention and reassurance, it really makes a difference when your pet feels uncertain or overwhelmed.

Every pet is different — some may adapt quickly, others more slowly. With thought, preparation and a gentle approach, your move can be an adventure you all enjoy together. If you ever feel concerned about your pet’s wellbeing during the move, speak with your vet for tailored advice.

Wishing you and your pets a smooth move and a happy new chapter in your new home! ����
 

Sources from PDSA and Blue Cross