Moving house is stressful for us, but for pets, the sudden change in routine, smells and surroundings can be overwhelming. With a little preparation, you can make the experience calmer, safer and far less stressful for your furry (or feathered) family members.
Here’s how to help dogs, cats and small pets adjust smoothly before, during and after your move.
Why Moving Affects Pets More Than Humans
Pets rely heavily on familiar environments, routines and smells. When these change quickly, like boxes everywhere, people coming and going, furniture disappearing, stress levels rise.
Common signs of pet stress during a move include:
- restlessness or hiding
- loss of appetite
- excessive vocalising
- clinginess or behavioural changes
Planning ahead helps your pet stay calm, and makes your move much smoother too.
Before the Move: Preparing Your Pet for Change
Maintain Normal Routines
Even if your home feels chaotic, keep feeding times, walks and play sessions consistent. Routine helps pets feel secure.
Let Them Get Used to Moving Supplies
Leave boxes and packing materials out early. Let your pet explore at their own pace so they aren’t startled on moving day.
Create a Quiet Packing Zone
Choose a spare room or calm corner where your pet can retreat. Keep the door partially closed so they’re away from noise and clutter.
Update Microchips, Tags & Vet Records
If your pet gets out during the move, having updated details ensures a safe return.
Plan Travel in Advance
Prepare carriers, crates or car harnesses early. Add familiar bedding or a favourite toy to help your pet travel more comfortably.
Need help with the packing stage? Our professional packing services can help keep your home calm and organised while you prepare your pets for moving day.
On Moving Day: Keeping Pets Calm and Safe
Use a Dedicated Safe Room
Set up one room as a “pet zone” with:
- food and water
- toys
- bedding
- a litter tray (for cats)
This keeps your pet away from open doors, heavy items and unfamiliar faces.
Stick to Mealtimes and Walks
Keeping the day as normal as possible prevents anxiety spikes.
Limit Exposure to Noise and Activity
Movers, footsteps and furniture sounds can trigger stress. Soft music or a calming radio station can help mask background noise.
Transport Pets Last and Unload Them First
This reduces time spent waiting and helps them settle faster in the new home.
Our experienced team works efficiently and carefully to minimise disruption on moving day. Learn more about our house removal services.
After the Move: Helping Pets Settle Into Their New Home
Start With One Room at a Time
Let your pet explore gradually rather than giving them full access immediately. This is especially helpful for anxious pets and cats.
Keep Their Setup Identical at First
In the early days, keep beds, bowls and litter trays in similar positions to those in your old home.
Carefully Introduce Dogs & Outdoor Cats to Their New Area
- Dogs: take short, frequent walks to help them get familiar
- Cats: keep indoors for 2–3 weeks before supervised outdoor access
Watch for Signs of Stress
If behaviour changes persist, reach out to a vet for advice.
Tips for Moving Different Types of Pets
Dogs
- Use calming sprays or pheromones
- Bring a blanket that smells like home
- Use a secure travel harness or crate
Cats
- Use pheromone diffusers (e.g., Feliway) in the new home
- Keep indoors initially
- Keep hiding spots available
Small Pets (Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, Hamsters)
- Maintain consistent temperatures
- Use carriers with deep bedding
- Keep them away from loud noises
Birds & Reptiles
- Avoid drafts and direct sunlight
- Use temperature-controlled carriers
- Provide familiar branches or hides inside the carrier
Extra Tips to Make Moving with Pets Even Easier
- Don’t wash their bedding for a few days before and after the move
- Bring familiar toys, bowls and blankets in the car
- Reward calm behaviour with treats and praise
- Keep cleaning products locked away until pets are settled
Small steps go a long way in making the transition smoother for everyone.
When to Seek Professional Help
Contact a vet or behaviourist if your pet:
- stops eating for more than 24 hours
- shows signs of aggression or fear
- hides constantly
- vomits or has diarrhoea for more than a day
- seems unusually withdrawn
Moving can temporarily affect behaviour, but ongoing issues may need attention.
Moving House With Pets? We’re Here to Help
With an organised, experienced removals team, the entire moving process becomes calmer and easier, especially for pets.
At Direct Moves, we work efficiently, protect your belongings carefully, and help keep your home environment as settled as possible on moving day.
Ready to move home with your pets?
Request Your Free Quote
Or speak to our friendly team on 01279 726641.