keep pets calm when moving house

A house move can be stressful for everyone involved, so it’s important to keep pets calm when moving house as they can sometimes get overlooked.

As a pet owner it can be a worry not knowing how a house move will impact your pet and you can be a concerned that they will wander off and get lost in their new environment. It’s important to ensure that your pet is monitored throughout and does not get anxious.

To help keep pets calm when moving house, there are a few positive things you can do, which include:

Stay calm

It’s important for you to stay calm yourself. Your pet can pick up on any anxiety that you have, which could then result in them getting stressed.

Keep them away from packing

To help keep pets calm when moving house, keep your pet in one room whilst packing. Make sure the room is secure so they don’t escape and let removal staff and other family members know they are there.

Plan the journey

Plan the route from your old house to your new one. Make sure that your pet travels in your car and is safe and secure in the vehicle. Don’t leave your pet alone in the car whilst packing or unpacking.

Update their details

Be sure to let your vet know that you are moving and update your contact details. You may have to register your pet with a new vet closer to your new house. It’s also important to update your contact details with your pet insurer and your pet’s microchip information. If they get lost this will help to return them to you quickly.

Keep your routine

When in the new house, try to keep to the same routine that you had in the old house. This includes, feeding, walks and rest time. This will help to keep pets calm when moving house and help them get used to their new environment.

Keep cats indoors

Try to keep your cat indoors for a minimum of two to three weeks before letting them out. This will give your cat time to become accustomed to their new home. When you do let them out, you could do this before giving them food. If they are hungry you will be able to call them back with their favourite treats.

Walk your dog

Take your dog for a long walk before the move to reduce any excess energy. This will help to calm them down and then relax during the move. Be sure to take them for a walk to stretch their legs once you have arrived at your new home and are settled, especially if they have been contained to one room during the unpacking process.

Consider Nutracalm to keep pets calm when moving house

Consider using Nutracalm for your pet, which is specifically formulated by vets to naturally calm anxious pets and reduce unwanted or unruly behaviour in dogs and cats.

If you are worried about your pet, speak to your vet who is best placed to monitor your pet’s health. Ask your vet about Nutracalm and other ways to support your pet during the moving process.