Moving House with Pets
For many people, pets are part of the family.
While moving house is exciting, it can also be stressful for animals as they experience unfamiliar surroundings, changes in routine and lots of activity.
With a little preparation, you can help make moving day as calm and comfortable as possible for your pets.
This guide explains how to prepare before the move, keep your pets safe on moving day and help them settle into their new home.
Prepare Before Moving Day
Pets often pick up on changes around the home.
Packing boxes, moving furniture and changes in routine can make some animals anxious.
In the weeks leading up to your move:
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Keep feeding times consistent.
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Stick to normal walking routines.
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Leave favourite toys and bedding out until the last moment.
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Make sure identification tags and microchip details are up to date.
Keeping familiar routines can help reduce stress.
Keep Pets Safe During the Move
Moving day can be busy, with doors open, furniture being carried and people coming in and out of the property.
To help keep your pets safe:
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Keep dogs on a lead if necessary.
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Keep cats indoors until they travel.
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Use secure pet carriers.
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Make sure fresh water is always available.
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Consider asking a friend or family member to look after your pet during the busiest part of the day.
This reduces the risk of pets escaping while the removal team is working.
Pack a Pet Essentials Bag
Keep everything your pet needs with you rather than packing it onto the removal van.
Your essentials bag could include:
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Food
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Water
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Bowls
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Lead
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Harness
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Favourite toy
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Blanket or bed
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Medication
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Waste bags or litter tray
Having these items immediately available helps your pet settle more quickly.
Travelling to Your New Home
Whether you're travelling a few miles or across the country, plan ahead.
If you're making a longer journey:
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Allow time for comfort breaks.
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Keep pets hydrated.
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Never leave animals unattended in a vehicle.
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Secure carriers properly during travel.
A calm journey can make arriving at your new home much easier.
Helping Pets Settle In
Everything smells different in a new home, so give your pet time to explore at their own pace.
Set up a quiet area with familiar bedding, food and toys before introducing them to the rest of the property.
Keeping familiar scents around them can provide reassurance while they adjust.
Moving with Cats
Cats can be particularly sensitive to moving home.
When you arrive:
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Keep them indoors initially.
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Allow them to explore one room at a time.
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Wait until they're settled before allowing outdoor access.
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Make sure their microchip details have been updated.
Every cat is different, so give them time to adjust.
Moving with Dogs
Dogs usually settle more quickly when familiar routines continue.
Try to:
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Walk them at their usual times.
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Introduce them gradually to the garden.
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Keep feeding schedules the same.
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Spend extra time playing and reassuring them.
Routine helps dogs feel secure in unfamiliar surroundings.
Other Pets
Small animals, birds, reptiles and fish all have different requirements during a move.
If you own specialist pets, speak to your vet beforehand for advice on transporting them safely.
Planning ahead is always the safest approach.
A Little Planning Goes a Long Way
Moving house can feel like a big adventure for both you and your pets.
By planning ahead, keeping routines familiar and making safety a priority, you can help ensure the transition is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Moving with The Removal Kings®
At The Removal Kings®, we understand that moving house means moving every member of the family, including the four-legged ones.
Our experienced team works efficiently and carefully, helping you get settled into your new home while giving you the time to focus on your pets and your family.
Need Help with Your Move?
Whether you're moving locally or relocating further afield, we're here to help.