Moving House with Pets: The Complete Guide to a Stress-Free Move

 

 

Moving house is a big change – not just for you, but for your pets too.

While you’re busy thinking about packing boxes, organising utilities and collecting the keys, your dog, cat or other pets are experiencing something very different. Their familiar surroundings are disappearing, routines are changing and strangers may suddenly be carrying furniture out of the house.

It’s no surprise that moving can be stressful for animals.

The good news is that with a little preparation and the support of an experienced removals company, moving with pets can be much smoother than you might expect.

At A&M Removals, we’ve helped countless families move home across Yorkshire and understand how important every member of the family is – including the four-legged ones.

Here’s everything you need to know about moving house with pets.

Why Moving Can Be Stressful for Pets

Pets thrive on routine.

Dogs know when it’s time for a walk.

Cats know every corner of the house.

Even rabbits, guinea pigs and birds become familiar with their surroundings.

When moving house, everything changes.

Your pet may notice:

• Boxes appearing around the house
• Furniture being moved
• New smells
• Different people visiting
• Changes to feeding routines
• Increased noise

Some pets become withdrawn.

Others become overexcited or anxious.

Understanding these behaviours is the first step towards making the move easier.

 

 

 

Start Preparing Early

One of the biggest mistakes people make is waiting until moving day to think about their pets.

Instead, begin preparing several weeks beforehand. If your pet is nervous around boxes or changes to furniture, introduce these gradually. Continue with normal routines wherever possible. Keep feeding times, walks and play sessions consistent.

The more normal life feels before moving day, the less unsettling the experience is likely to be. Take a look at the A&M Removals Moving House Checklist – it’s full of info you might forget! 🙂

 

Update Your Pet’s Information

Before moving, check that all identification details are correct.

This includes:

• Microchip information
• ID tags
• Contact telephone numbers
• New address (once confirmed)

If your pet becomes frightened and escapes during the move, up-to-date information makes reunification much easier.

It’s also worth locating your nearest veterinary practice before you move.

Registering early means you’re prepared if your pet needs treatment after relocating.

Pack Your Pet’s Belongings Last

Your pet’s favourite blanket, toys and bed all provide reassurance.

Avoid packing these items until the very last moment. Keep familiar belongings available for as long as possible. When you arrive at your new home, place these familiar items in one room first. The familiar scent helps reassure your pet that they’re somewhere safe.

Read our full Packing Tips Guide here…

 

Create a Safe Space on Moving Day

Moving day is often noisy and busy.

Doors are left open.

Furniture is carried outside.

People come and go.

This creates opportunities for frightened pets to escape.

Where possible, keep your pet in a quiet room away from the main activity.

Provide:

• Water
• Bedding
• Favourite toys
• Food
• A litter tray if needed

Place a sign on the door reminding everyone that a pet is inside.

Some owners prefer asking a trusted friend or family member to look after their pet for the day, which can be an excellent option for particularly anxious animals.

 

 

Travelling to Your New Home

Travel arrangements will depend on the type of pet you own.

Dogs

Secure dogs using a suitable harness, travel crate or dog guard.

Never allow dogs to roam freely inside the vehicle.

Cats

Cats should travel inside secure carriers with comfortable bedding.

Keep the carrier covered with a light blanket if your cat finds travel stressful.

Small Animals

Rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and birds should travel in secure cages or carriers with familiar bedding.

Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures during the journey.

Plan your journey carefully and allow extra time for comfort breaks if travelling long distances with dogs.

 

Introducing Pets to Their New Home

Resist the temptation to let your pet explore the entire house immediately.

Instead, introduce them gradually.

For dogs:

Allow them to investigate one room at a time.

Maintain normal meal times and walks.

For cats:

Keep them indoors for at least two to three weeks before allowing outdoor access.

This helps them establish your new property as home.

For smaller pets:

Set up their enclosure in a quiet area before introducing unnecessary noise or activity.

Patience is key.

 

Stick to Familiar Routines

One of the easiest ways to reduce stress is by maintaining familiar routines.

Try to keep:

• Feeding times
• Walks
• Bedtime
• Playtime

as close as possible to your previous schedule.

Routine provides reassurance during periods of change.

 

Watch for Signs of Stress

Every pet reacts differently.

Common signs include:

• Reduced appetite
• Hiding
• Barking or meowing more than usual
• Restlessness
• Destructive behaviour
• Changes in toilet habits

Most animals settle naturally after a few days or weeks.

If symptoms persist or become severe, seek advice from your veterinary practice.

 

Tips for Moving House with Dogs

Dogs generally adapt quickly once they understand their new routine.

Helpful tips include:

• Walk them before movers arrive.
• Keep favourite toys nearby.
• Give plenty of reassurance.
• Explore local walking routes together.
• Avoid leaving them alone immediately after moving.

New walks are exciting opportunities for both owner and dog to become familiar with the neighbourhood.

 

 

 

 

Tips for Moving House with Cats

Cats are often more sensitive to environmental changes.

To help them settle:

• Keep them indoors initially.
• Introduce one room first.
• Use familiar bedding.
• Avoid forcing interaction.
• Allow them to explore at their own pace.

Cats rely heavily on scent, so familiar blankets and toys are especially important.

 

Don’t Forget the Essentials Box

Just as you pack an essentials box for yourself, prepare one for your pet.

Include:

• Food
• Water bowls
• Medication
• Lead
• Collar
• Favourite toys
• Bedding
• Treats
• Waste bags
• Cleaning supplies

Having everything easily accessible prevents unnecessary stress on your first evening.

 

Why Professional Removal Companies Make Life Easier

Moving with pets already involves enough to think about.

Hiring experienced removal professionals allows you to focus on your family while leaving the heavy lifting to experts.

Nick, owner of A&M Removals, explains:

“We’ve moved hundreds of families with pets over the years. Our advice is always the same – plan ahead, keep your pet’s routine as normal as possible and let experienced movers handle the logistics. That way, everyone arrives at the new home feeling much calmer.”

Professional movers also reduce the amount of time doors remain open and help keep moving day running efficiently.

 

 

 

Pet Moves: Frequently Asked Questions

 

How do I reduce my pet’s stress when moving house?

Keep routines consistent, prepare early, pack their belongings last and provide a quiet, secure space on moving day.

 

Should pets stay in the house during the move?

Many owners prefer arranging for pets to stay with family or friends until the move is complete. If this isn’t possible, keep them safely contained in a quiet room.

 

How long should cats stay indoors after moving?

Most experts recommend keeping cats indoors for at least two to three weeks before allowing supervised outdoor access.

 

Should I change my dog’s walking routine?

Try to maintain familiar walking times, but gradually explore your new local area together.

 

Can professional removal companies help families with pets?

Yes. Experienced removal companies understand the additional challenges of moving with animals and work efficiently to help reduce disruption.

Enjoy Your New Beginning Together

Moving house marks the start of an exciting new chapter for your whole family—including your pets.

Although moving day can feel overwhelming, careful planning, familiar routines and a little patience will help your animals settle into their new surroundings much more quickly.

At A&M Removals, we know every move is unique. Whether you’re moving with a lively Labrador, a curious cat or a house full of small pets, our experienced team is here to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

If you’re planning a move anywhere across Yorkshire and beyond, contact A&M Removals today for a free, no-obligation quote. We’ll take care of the move, so you can focus on helping your family – and your pets – feel at home.