Tips for Moving with Pets: How to Help a Dog or Cat Adjust

Do you think moving is stressful?

Look at it from your pet’s perspective.

Dogs and cats rely on routines and familiarity. Try moving a favorite cat bed and see how your cat reacts. Now imagine moving that bed 60 miles to a new apartment and everything else the cat holds dear — and you have the makings of a feline nervous breakdown.

In this blog, we’ll explore a few strategies to lessen the blow and prepare Mittens or Beau for a new life in a new place.

Pre-Move Prep for Pets

For Dogs

Dogs pick up on your emotions. Stay calm, positive, and measured as you introduce changes.

• Place boxes around your home a few weeks in advance. This way, your dog will become familiar with the sight of them and won’t feel alarmed when you start packing them.
• Even if your days are hectic, keep your dog’s feeding, walking, and playtime routine consistent. Stability fosters security.
• Avoid packing everything at once. Gradual changes in the home can reduce your dog’s anxiety.
• Double-check your dog’s collar ID and microchip information to reflect your new address (just in case they get lost during the move).
• If your dog isn’t used to a crate, introduce it early. Add a blanket or toy they love to make it a comforting space.

For Cats

Cats are highly sensitive to changes in their environment, even more so than dogs. Disruptions to their routine can make them anxious.

• Place the carrier in a familiar space, leaving the door open so your cat can explore it voluntarily. Add treats or toys to make it a positive experience.
• Cats hate chaos. To minimize stress, keep them in a quiet, familiar room while you pack.
• To maintain a sense of normalcy, keep your cat’s bed, toys, and other frequently used items unpacked until the final stages.
• Make sure your cat’s identification is current and includes your new contact details.
• Play soothing music and avoid loud noises in the house as you pack. Bach, not Led Zeppelin.

Moving Day Tips

For Dogs

• Place your dog in a quiet, secure room or have them stay with a trusted friend or sitter. This prevents them from becoming anxious around movers or escaping through open doors.
• Give your dog their favorite blanket or toy to soothe them.
• For especially anxious dogs, consult your vet about calming sprays, treats, or medications.
• If traveling a long distance, schedule plenty of stops for your dog to stretch, hydrate, and answer nature’s call.

For Cats

• Keep your cat in a quiet, closed room with necessities like food, water, and a litter box while movers work. Label the door to ensure no one accidentally lets the cat out.
• When transporting your cat to the new location, keep them safely confined in their carrier.
• Drape a light blanket over the carrier to reduce visual stimulation, which can calm nervous cats.
• If you’re moving long distances, pack essentials like water, their favorite treats, and a small litter box for the trip.

Helping Pets Adjust to a New Home

For Dogs

• Your dog’s bed, toys, and food bowls should be the first things you unpack. Familiar items will provide immediate comfort.
• Take your dog on a tour of the new house to investigate the new surroundings. Use treats to associate positive feelings with each space.
• Stick to your old feeding, walk, and playtime schedule. This will give your dog a sense of stability.
• Gradually open the house for exploration rather than overwhelming your dog with the entire space.

For Cats

• Set up a designated “safe room” with a litter box, bed, toys, and food. Then, allow the kitty to explore the rest of the home at its own pace.
• Limit loud noises or unfamiliar visitors in the house for the first few days.
• Use treats and playtime to make the new environment feel rewarding.
• Stick to their previous feeding and litter-box-cleaning schedule to reduce stress.

FAQs: Moving with Pets

Q: How long does it take for pets to adjust to a new home?

Depending on your pet’s personality and how much their routine has changed, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.

Q: Should I sedate my pet for the move?

Consult your veterinarian before considering sedation. Many pets can be calmed with natural solutions or familiarity with their surroundings.

Q: How do I keep my pet from running away during the move?

Keep them in a secure room or crate during moving day. Ensure their ID tags and microchip information are up-to-date.

Q: What’s the best way to transport pets for long-distance moves?

For dogs, use a secure crate or carrier, pack essential supplies, and plan frequent stops. For cats, keep them in their carrier and limit unnecessary handling during the trip.

Q: Should I hire a pet sitter during the move?

If possible, hiring a sitter or having your pet stay with friends can reduce their exposure to the chaos of moving day.

Q: Can I move my pet’s belongings ahead of time?

Moving your pet’s items with you is better to maintain familiarity and comfort.

Q: How can I help a nervous pet settle into the new home?

Start by giving them a quiet, safe space, maintaining routines, and gradually introducing them to the new environment.

Q: What if my pet refuses to eat or drink after the move?

This can be a typical stress reaction. Offer their favorite treats and ensure they’re in a calm, quiet environment. If it persists for more than 48 hours, consult your vet.