Moving with dog or cat
A new house, new smells, new stress—how to help your pet through the move.
Moving is stressful enough for humans—for dogs and cats often even more. New smells, new sounds, boxes everywhere, strangers in and out. With the right preparation and a calm approach you help your pet through the transition. Here's how.
📦 Before the move
- • Keep your pet in a fixed, quiet spot during packing. A room that hasn't been touched yet, with his bed, toys and water.
- • Ensure chip and registration are up to date. Under stress animals can run away—a chip increases the chance they'll be found.
- • Inform your new neighbours and landlord about your pet. That avoids surprises.
- • Plan the transport: who takes the animal? In a familiar carrier or crate, with a blanket that smells like home.
🚗 During the move
Have your dog or cat taken last, preferably by someone he knows. That avoids the chaos of movers and furniture.
During the drive: drive calmly, not too long. For cats: covering the carrier with a cloth can be calming.
🔑 The first days in the new home
Give your pet time. Let him explore one room first, then gradually expand. Put his bed, bowl and toys in a fixed spot. Keep routines as much as possible: feeding time, walk times. Avoid parties or lots of visitors the first days—give him space to adjust.
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