What with packing boxes, organising removalists and managing all the logistics, moving house is undeniably stressful.

But if it feels anxiety-inducing to you, imagine how it feels for your pet.

If you’re about to move house and want to help your cat or dog through the transition with minimal stress and anxiety, here’s your vet-approved guide to making sure your furry friend feels at home-sweet-home in no time.

Before the move: prepare your pet early

Moving day can be rough on pets, but there are a few ways you can help prepare them early.

We recommend making sure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date, and that their council registration and microchip details are current. If they haven’t had a vet checkup in a while, it’s good to do this before you move – especially if you’re relocating to a new neighbourhood, as it could take time to settle in and find a new family vet.

If you’ll be transporting your cat or dog in a carrier, it’s a good idea to leave it lying around the house before the big day: let them curiously sniff it, hide some treats inside it, and put a cosy blanket in there to encourage them to lie down. That way, when moving day arrives, they’ll be more familiar with their carrier – and hopefully less stressed during transit.

Packing up without stressing your pet out

If you’ve ever packed for a holiday with your cat sitting in the suitcase or your dog at your feet, you’ll know that it doesn’t take much for pets to realise that something unusual’s going on.

Try to maintain feeding routines and keep a safe, quiet space for them to hold onto a sense of familiarity – even if the rest of the house is in chaos. And make their bedding and blankets one of the last things you pack: it keeps those familiar smells around, and also means it’s easy to make them one of the first things you unpack in your new home.

Moving day: keep your pet safe and secure

Moving day is likely to be a busy one, with lots of doors open and removalists coming and going. It’s important to keep your pet somewhere safe and secure during this time, such as outside in the garden for dogs, or in a room with food, water and a litter tray for cats.

Once you’re ready to transport your pet, make sure they’re safely restrained with a harness or in a carrier – and make sure you’ve planned appropriately for food, water and toilet breaks if you’re driving a long distance.

If you have an especially anxious pet, they may benefit from medication to help them travel safely and comfortably. Our team can advise you on the options available and what’s appropriate for your situation.

Helping them settle

Dogs can sometimes adjust to a new home more quickly than cats, but they’ll still benefit from plenty of familiarity and reassurance. Help them feel secure with their favourite bedding or blanket, and make sure water is easily available and they know where to find it. Stick to your usual routine, make sure they can’t escape, and supervise outdoor access for the first few days until they get the lay of the land.

For cats, it’s a good idea to introduce them to the new environment more gradually. Start by keeping them in one room with their litter tray, food, water and snuggly bedding, then slowly introduce them to the rest of the house when they feel ready. Don’t be surprised if they find somewhere small and dark to hide in for a few days – it’s their way of helping themselves feel safe.

We also recommend keeping cats indoors for at least two weeks before letting them outside, giving them time to settle in and recognise their new house as home base.

After the move: things to watch out for

You know your pet best, so keep a close eye on them after the move for signs of elevated anxiety, such as changes in appetite, behaviour or toileting habits.

Some changes can be a normal response to a new environment, but if you’re concerned about your pet’s behaviour or wellbeing – particularly if they stop eating or drinking – contact your vet for advice.

Good luck – you’ve got this! You’ll be exploring your new neighbourhood on dog walks or lazing in that perfect sunny spot with your feline friend before you know it.

P.S. Want more advice from our expert vets? You might like to read “Could your pet’s breath be telling you something? Periodontal disease in pets” or “Understanding anxiety in pets – and how you can help.”