Moving home with your pets is stressful for you and for them. It's well known that moving house is one of the most stressful life events, even if you are moving into your dream home. As you settle in, it takes lots of planning, emotions and considerable adjustments. With extra preparation, plenty of love, support and ample treats, your pets will settle in as quickly as you.
It's important to consider that your pets will take on some of your stresses. Pets, especially cats, are sensitive to change and enjoy being in a familiar environment. It's important to continue the same routine when you have moved so they can easily and quickly transition to their new home.
Moving with your cat
You'll need to transport your feline friend in a secure carrier. Introducing the carrier early and
making it familiar to them is a good idea; put their bedding and treats inside so that they view it as a place of safety, leave the carrier door open so that they can explore the carrier at their own pace; they might even choose to sleep in it.
Introduce your packing boxes slowly; cats love to play in boxes, but presenting lots of boxes at the same time can cause them to be overwhelmed and anxious. They'll notice the changes in the lead-up to moving day. Packing slowly will help them adjust to the changes. It's essential to ensure that your cat has their familiar belongings around them, such as bedding, blankets and scratching posts. Spread these items around your new home for a sense of familiarity.
Ensure your cat is microchipped and wearing a collar with updated contact information that
reflects their new address. It's essential to keep them inside or in a secure 'cat-proof' garden
until they settle in case they get anxious and run away.
Moving with your dog
Dogs are much easier to relocate than cats! If you are not moving too far, you can start taking your dog on walks through their new neighbourhood so that they can get used to all of the new scents, sights and sounds.
When you are packing, include them so that they can investigate the exciting goings-on. If you try to exclude them, they'll likely feel nervous, leading to stress-related behaviours, including barking and hyperactivity.
Your pets on moving day
Make sure you keep your feline companions in a safe and confined area on your moving day;
they are likely to become spooked by all the commotion and new people in your home. Lock
the door, or put a sign up to remind people that a cat is inside. Remember to give them their
expected creature comforts, such as their litter box, toys, bedding, food and water.
For your canine buddy, can you take them to a friend for the day or choose a dog-friendly
person to watch over them? This can go a long way to preventing stress.
Pet escapes are a genuine concern and can cause undue stress for you and your furry friend.
Many people use technology such as AirTags or other pet trackers that use GPS satellites and cellular connections. If you are moving further afield, ensure that your pets are familiar with their crates and have had all of their necessary vaccinations before you move. Though not essential, they could wear an identification tag with your new address and telephone number. Plan in necessary pit stops and pet-friendly hotels if you travel long distances.
If you are moving further afield, it might be necessary to register with a new vet so you know
where to go in case of an emergency. If your pet is particularly nervous, there are various
herbal remedies that you can place in their environment to calm them. Pet Remedy is a plug-in which releases valerian essential oil blended with vetiver, sweet basil, and sage. You'll also need to change the contact details on their microchip. Don't forget that WeMoveAddy will help you with these detailed changes so you have more time to spend with your pet!
Welcoming your pet to their new home
Introduce your cat to their new home in a calm way. Choose a quiet room where they can seek refuge with all necessary accessories such as bedding, water, food and a scratching post. Keep all windows and doors closed and restrict access to any crawl spaces. Once they are comfortable, they'll want to explore their new surroundings and soon realise they have nothing to fear. You might find that they search for a hiding place where they feel comfortable. Practice your usual routine, encourage them to eat and refrain from visitors for a while. Get them back to their regular schedule as soon as you can.
Just like cats, dogs thrive on a routine. Spend a few days with them at home so that they can
get used to their new space and enjoy meeting other sniffly companions in their
neighbourhood.
With some planning and careful consideration of their sensitive natures, you'll have them settled in no time!
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