Moving home can be anxiety-inducing for pets as well as humans. Fortunately, there are things you can do to make the transition easier, help them feel at home and get them settled in quickly.
Here are our top tips for moving with pets.
1. Arrange a place for pets on moving day
In an ideal world, you should try to find willing friends or family to look after your pet for you on moving day. Alternatively, you could put your cat or dog into a trusted cattery or kennel while you move home.
Of course, not everybody can do this. So, if your pet is going to move with you, set up a temporary room for them to stay in, complete with bedding, food and water, and toys. Keeping them away from the main action will help to keep them calm!
2. Update your pet’s microchip
Don’t leave microchipping to the last minute. Get your vet to update your pet’s microchip before you move. Doing so will make life easier for you if your pet escapes during the moving process.
3. Register with a new vet
Let your vet know you’re moving so they can provide you with any medication beforehand. If you’re moving to a new area, find a new veterinary practice and register your pet before moving. Your current vet might be able to recommend one for you.
4. Introduce your dog to the neighbourhood
If possible, take your dog on a few walks in their new neighbourhood before you move. (Of course, if you’re moving far away, you probably won’t be able to do this.) Introducing your dog to its new postcode in advance will help get them used to its unique smells!
5. Pet-proof your new home
Get your new home ready for your pet before you move. Make sure the garden is secure, and if you’re moving into a rental, look out for any poisonous house plants and pest control traps.
If you have a cat, install a cat flap. You could also consider investing in a pheromone diffuser. Plug-in pheromone diffusers contain chemicals that soothe cats and could make the transition a little less stressful for them.
6. Transport your pet responsibly
Use secure cat carriers to transport your feline friends. Use a special dog crate, travel harness, carrier, or boot gate if you have a dog. Keep the following in mind:
- Your pet will need access to fresh water.
- Don’t leave your pet in a parked vehicle, especially when it’s hot.
- Schedule toilet stops for dogs.
- Provide cats with a litter box or tray for long journeys.
- To help prevent travel sickness, don’t feed your dog or cat between two to three hours before they travel.
If you’re moving a rodent like a guinea pig, put them in a small carrier with food and a water bottle. You can transport fish short distances in a bag filled with water from their tank. Remember that journeys can be very stressful for small creatures, so do as much as possible to keep them stable and comfy during the move.
For more tips on how to safely transport pets when moving, check out this helpful guide from Pets & Reviews.
7. Create a safe space for your pet
You’ve made it to your new home!
Before you start unpacking in earnest, take some time to make your pet comfortable in a quiet part of the house or flat. Check-in on them regularly to see if they’re okay. Moving a dog to a new home is sometimes easier than carrying a cat. Help your dog settle in by allowing them to explore the space one room at a time.
8. Keep your cat inside for a while
Regarding tips for moving a cat, remember that things may take longer. According to the RSPCA, cats need time to settle and adjust. You should keep your cat indoors for at least two weeks and let them outside when their behaviour has settled. Try to maintain routines, such as feeding them at the exact times every day.
If in doubt, call in the professionals
The Removals & Storage Experts team has a wealth of experience handling residential moves. We’ll provide information on how to move with pets, whether you’re moving house with a dog, cat or something much smaller!
We can also pack, remove and store your belongings for you in our super secure storage unit. So what are you waiting for? Get a quote from us today.
