How to Help Your Pet Adjust to a New Home When Moving

Moving isn't just chaotic for humans—it's even more unsettling for pets. They rely on familiar scents, sounds, and spaces to feel secure. Sudden changes trigger stress, anxiety, and sometimes behavioural issues. The good news is that with thoughtful planning, you can make this transition much smoother. The key principles: preserve familiarity, take it gradually, and allow enough time.

## Preparation Before Moving Day

Start preparing two to three weeks in advance so your pet can slowly adjust to changes. Don't pack everything at once—do it gradually. Keep their bowls, bed, toys, and litter box until the very end to maintain their daily routine as normally as possible.

If feasible, bring your pet to visit the new place once or twice before moving. Let them sniff around and explore to form initial impressions. This works particularly well for dogs, though cats may need a carrier to feel safe during visits.

A few days before the move, start using pheromone diffusers (Feliway for cats or Adaptil for dogs) in both homes to help them relax. Remember to prepare their medical records and microchip information, updating registration addresses when you move to a new area.

## Making Moving Day Safe and Calm

* Place your pet in a quiet room away from the moving activity with the door securely closed
* Post a sign on the door saying "Pet Inside – Do Not Open" to alert movers
* Provide plenty of water, a small amount of food, their favourite toy, and a piece of your worn clothing (with your scent)
* Cats are best kept in a carrier with a towel draped over it to reduce visual stimulation
* If your dog is very anxious, consider temporary boarding with a friend or pet hotel

During the car journey to your new home, ensure pets are safely secured (carrier or dog seatbelt), maintain comfortable temperature, and make stops for bathroom breaks and water.

## Adjustment Strategy at the New Home

Upon arrival, don't immediately open up the entire house to your pet. First, set up a "safe base room" with all their familiar items: bed, bowls, toys, and litter box. Let them stay in this room for a few days to adjust before gradually opening access to other spaces.

Cats may need one to two weeks before willingly exploring on their own. Don't force them—let them decide when to venture out. Dogs typically adapt faster but still need time to familiarize themselves with new sounds and smells.

Maintaining your original daily schedule is crucial: feed, walk, and play at consistent times. This predictability provides security, showing them that while the location changed, their life rhythm hasn't.

## Warning Signs to Watch For

* Refusing food for over 24 hours (cats) or 48 hours (dogs)
* Continuous anxious vocalization or unusual silence
* Destructive behaviour or inappropriate elimination
* Excessive grooming or hiding and refusing to come out
* Aggression toward owners or excessive clinginess

**Gentle Reminder:** Every pet adapts at their own pace—some may settle within days, others need weeks or even months. If your pet shows persistent anxiety symptoms, refuses to eat, or displays major behavioural changes, consult your vet. They can assess whether short-term anti-anxiety support is needed. The most important things are patience, allowing sufficient time, and using your presence and understanding to help them through this transition period.