Moving Home With Pets – A 7-Step Guide

Moving homes is an exciting but stressful time for any family, and that definitely includes the furry members of the household. Pets can be sensitive when it comes to changes in their environment and their beloved routines, which means moving house can be especially difficult for them. 

However, with a bit of planning and preparation, you can help make the move as easy as possible for your pet, and get them settled into their new home in no time.

Use this guide to learn everything you need to know about moving house with pets.

• Is moving stressful for pets?
• How do I keep my pet calm when moving homes?
• How stressful is moving house for cats?
• What is the best way to move with pets: a 7 Step Guide.

Is moving stressful for pets?

Unfortunately, moving house can be stressful for pets. The combination of an unfamiliar environment, changes to their routine and the overall disruption can result in anxiety and confusion for our animal friends. In the same way as humans, pets thrive with stability and familiarity, so make sure to give them some special attention as they deal with the move.

How do I keep my pet calm when moving house?

To keep your pet calm when moving house, make sure you do everything you can to provide a calm and secure environment. Some techniques you can try include creating a designated space for your pet away from the chaos, using familiar bedding and toys for the journey, and gradually introducing them to their new home so they don’t become overwhelmed. 

You should also try to maintain their regular routines for feeding, exercise and sleep to provide a sense of comfort and familiarity in their new surroundings.

How stressful is moving house for cats?

We all know dogs (some of them) like to take life as it comes, but is moving more stressful for our more highly-strung feline family members? Well, in short, yes, cats do tend to feel the stress more than other pets.

Cats form a strong attachment to their territory, meaning any disruption to their environment can cause anxiety. Unfamiliar sights, sounds, and smells of a new home can be confronting for them and put them in fight or flight mode. 

To reduce stress, try to create a safe space for your cat during and after the move by gradually introducing them to the new surroundings, and providing familiar comforts like their favourite bedding and toys. 

By maintaining their routines and giving them some extra attention and reassurance, you can help to soothe their anxiety and help them adjust to their new home without the stress.

What is the best way to move with pets?

Follow these 7 steps to move house with pets without the stress.

• Consider Your Pet’s Unique Personality And Needs

When you start planning to move house, it’s important to consider your pet’s unique personality and needs. Your pet may be more sensitive to changes in their environment, or they may be more adaptable and open to change. Some breeds will need more exercise or space, while others may have lower needs for the short-term period of the move.

For example, if you have a high-energy dog such as a collie or cattle dog, that requires regular exercise, you’ll need to make sure that you can provide regular exercise throughout the move and get them quickly associated with their new dog parks and walking trails. Similarly, if you have a cat that susceptible to stress, you’ll need to take extra steps to help them feel comfortable during the move, and use baby steps to introduce them to the change.

• Give Your Pet Time To Get Used to Their Carrier

Before you travel with your pet in a carrier, particularly if you are moving a long way, it’s important to let them get used to it beforehand. To start with, try leaving the carrier in a familiar area, with their favourite treats and toys inside. Over a few days, increase the amount of time your pet spends inside the carrier so that they associate it with positive experiences.

This will help your pet become familiar with the carrier and reduce their anxiety when it comes to moving house. You should also make sure that their carrier is the right size and that it’s comfortable, secure and well-ventilated.

• Update Your Pet’s Microchip Information

For peace of mind, update your contact details on your pet’s microchip before you move. You should also update their veterinarian, collar and tags and leave a forwarding address with the new owners or tenants of your home in case your pet makes their way back there (particularly if you are moving locally).

• Keep Your Pet’s Routine As Normal As Possible

Disruptions to your pet’s schedule can easily result in anxiety and stress. During the move, try to keep your pet’s normal feeding, play, and exercise schedule as normal as possible. This will help your pet feel secure and reduce their anxiety during the move.

• Keep Your Pet’s Essentials Until Last

Let your pet enjoy their old home as long as possible by keeping their essentials until last. This will make sure they are also easily accessible during the move. 

Things to keep out of the packing boxes include food, a water bowl, medication, toys and blankets, bedding, leashes and a litter box for cats.

• Plan For Your Pet’s Safety During The Move

During the move, it’s important to consider your pet’s safety at all times. If you’re travelling by car, make sure that your pet is secured in their carrier or a pet seatbelt.

If you’re travelling long distances, be sure to make stops every few hours to allow your pet to stretch their legs and use the bathroom. You should never leave your pet alone in a hot car, as this can be dangerous and even fatal.

• Introduce Your Pet to Their New Home Slowly

Once you’ve arrived at your new home, it’s important to introduce your pet to their new surroundings gradually, at their own pace. Let them explore their new home little by little, and be sure to provide plenty of positive reinforcement and treats.

You should also set up a designated area for your pet, with their bed, toys, and food and water so they have a spot they can call their own.

Conclusion

Moving house with pets can be a challenging experience, but with proper planning and consideration, you can make it a stress-free experience for your furry friends. Remember that pets thrive on stability and familiarity, so providing them with a calm and secure environment is crucial. 

Follow the 7-step guide we’ve provided to ensure a pleasant move for you and your pets. If you’re looking for professional assistance and expert advice to make your next move even easier, don’t hesitate to contact Move-In Connect. Our team of moving experts is here to help you and your pets get to your new home seamlessly. We can help you arrange your utility connections, broadband connection, including NBN plans and 5G internet and even Pay TV. Call us today on 1300 786 045 for a hassle-free moving experience.