Moving with Pets: Essential Tips for Dogs and Cats

Moving house is stressful enough on its own, but adding a cat or dog into the mix can make things even more challenging. Pets are creatures of habit, and a sudden change in their environment can leave them feeling anxious or unsettled. From unfamiliar smells and new surroundings to the chaos of packing boxes, it’s no wonder our furry friends can struggle during a move. The good news is that with a bit of preparation and care, you can make the process smoother for both you and your pet. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dog or cat feels safe and comfortable throughout the move.

Before the Big Day

Update tags and microchip

Moving can make pets unpredictable, and your cat or dog might try to explore the new neighbourhood. Double-check that their ID tag is up to date, and be sure to update their microchip with your new address so you can relax knowing they’re safe if they do get out.

Pet transport

Cats should travel in a secure, well-ventilated carrier to stay safe in the car. Give them space, familiar bedding, and a few treats to make it cosy. Introducing the carrier before moving day and covering it with a blanket can help reduce anxiety and make it feel like a safe hiding spot.

When travelling with a dog, use a sturdy, well-ventilated crate or a dog seatbelt harness to keep your pet secure in the car. Make sure they have access to water and take regular breaks for bathroom stops and short walks. Bring along familiar toys or a blanket to help them feel comfortable, and avoid feeding them right before the journey to prevent car sickness. A calm, prepared approach can make the trip less stressful for both you and your dog.

Visit the vet

Make sure your furry friend is up to date on vaccinations and is as healthy as possible. Speak to your vet about any concerns you may have. It would also be a good idea to research vets close to your new home, just in case you need a vet sooner than expected.

If your pet already suffers from anxiety, you can speak to your Vet about pheromone therapy before moving or even anti-anxiety medication if required.

Boxes and packing

Cats love boxes and dogs enjoy cosy spaces because they make them feel safe, but too many new boxes at once in their space can be overwhelming. Introduce empty boxes a few weeks before moving so your pets have time to get comfortable.

You can order your boxes and other packing materials for your move online from our Box Shop. At Storage King, we offer a wide range of moving and packing items, available individually or in budget-friendly moving packs.

Leave your pet items until the final boxes

Move your cat and dog’s bedding and belongings last to keep them comfortable. On moving day, consider keeping your pet in a quiet room to reduce stress. Amid the chaos, make time to comfort them, spend a few moments together, play soothing sounds to mask the noise of packing, and take your dog for a walk to help them stay calm.

After the Move: Helping Your Pet Adjust

Clean the new house

Getting your new home ready for your pet can make the move much smoother. Since cats are territorial, give the space a good clean to remove any lingering scents from previous pets.

Create a safe space for your cat and dog

Not only will your pet be dealing with an unfamiliar space in your new home, but there will also be a lot of commotion as furniture and boxes get carried around. Try to make some space as comfortable as possible by using familiar bedding and toys.

Cat house arrest

Cats should be ideally confined to the house for at least 3 weeks to allow them to get used to the new environment. Arrange the furniture so that they can look out and observe their surroundings day and night. After the period of confinement, if they are to go outside, allow them to go out for short periods. A good tip is not to feed them prior to letting them out, so they will more readily come in for their food.

Marking territory, one sniff at a time

Taking your dog for a walk after moving into a new home is important for both their comfort and safety. A walk helps them explore and get familiar with their new surroundings, reducing anxiety and helping them feel more secure. It also gives them a chance to relieve stress, burn off energy, and establish new routines. Walking in the neighbourhood allows your dog to mark their new territory, meet neighbours, and adjust to the sights, sounds, and smells of their new environment, making the transition smoother for everyone.

Hello neighbour

To get to know your neighbours and to foster a good friendship, it is a good idea to ask them to let you know if your dog is creating any disturbance while you are out. That way, you can avoid any neighbourhood disputes and all be happy in your new home.



Now it’s time for both you and your pets to settle in and make the space your own. Remember, it’s normal if your dog or cat takes a little while to adjust; patience is key. If you find your new place feeling a bit crowded, consider decluttering and storing extra items to create a more comfortable environment for everyone.