With 2021 being the year of the property boom, many people are now moving house. Not forgetting that throughout 2021, the prices of puppies and kittens rocketed as many people also decided to purchase pets during lockdown. With these two significant changes entering people’s lives, we have created a blog to help advise you on how best to move house with pets, reducing stress for all members of the family. 

Table of contents

Knowing where your pet is at all times is important

Make sure they do not get lost in any of the boxes! These boxes may not be opened for a long time. Keeping your cat in a separate room whilst you box up your items is sensible; as we all know how much cats (and rabbits) like to hide in boxes. Sometimes pets will visit neighbours’ houses when they become frightened at their own home. So warning your neighbours to be aware of this is important if this sounds like your pet. They can then also watch out in case your pet returns to the area once you have moved away.

Stick to routine (as far as you can!)

Whilst you are doing all the prep work required to move house, you should ensure you try to keep your pet’s routine as similar to normal as is possible. This means keeping to their usual feeding times and exercise hours. As you get more and more busy, it can be easy to sacrifice your dog’s walks. If you feel you do not have enough time to give your dog the exercise they need, book a dog walker, doggy day care or ask a neighbour if they are able to take your dog for a walk. This will help to reduce their anxiety and energy levels; meaning they are more comfortable living in a home where their surroundings are constantly changing. 

Your pet’s routine should remain similar as they move into the new home too. You should keep their bed the same as well as any toys and blankets. Refrain from washing these items when you move, so their scent is still marked on them. This will help to prevent any territorial issues. 

Keep it quiet

Loud noises from lorries, drills and voices, while preparing to move and when you arrive at your new home, may frighten pets. You should be aware of this and try to minimise noise as much as possible. Ensure windows and doors are shut to prevent your pet from running away due to fear. If pets run away from their home due to fear, the likelihood of them returning is slim. But ensuring your pet is microchipped (soon to be a legal requirement for cats as well as dogs) increases the chances of your lost pet being returned to you. We strongly recommend you doing this prior to moving, as they will be moving to an unfamiliar area with new smells and new adventures which can make it easier to get lost! Your pet should be wearing a collar too. 

As you move into your new home, gradually increase the amount you let your pet explore

Outdoor exploration should start in a controlled environment e.g., a walled garden or on a harness/lead. And with cats this should be after a period of keeping them indoors; so they have settled into the home first. You should allow your pet to become accustomed to the unfamiliar environment prior to giving them the freedom to explore the entire neighbourhood. If possible, you should take your pet to the new area before you move so they can get used to the area.

Stress can cause a range of different diseases and it can take a long time to cure them

Small furry animals have very high heart rates. Therefore they do not deal with stress well at all – they can even die. Cats often start urinating in unusual places. Dogs commonly suffer with separation anxiety and may take a little while to adapt to their new home. Whilst these are very common conditions, there are a range of other diseases and symptoms that may also be seen.

If you are moving to a completely new area, some distance from your current home, be prepared

You should check out what pet services are on offer in the area and make sure they have spaces for you. This includes registering with the local veterinary practice, checking in with the groomers, day care and boarding services if you are likely to use them.

Find a local veterinary practice

To conclude, moving house is stressful and it is easy to get carried away with the 101 jobs you need to do but do not forget about your pets. Make a plan for them and stick to it – then you and your pets will be able to relax and enjoy the new home!

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