Moving into a new home is a very exciting time, however it can be quite a daunting and confusing experience for our furry friends.
Stonebridge customers, Vanessa and James, run a veterinary practice in Leeds, and they have shared their top tips on moving home with pets.
- Routine is key: Try and keep routines as much as possible, such as meal times, exercise times etc. Familiar bedding and toys will also carry familiar smells, and will help them settle into their new home.
- Consider keeping cats indoors: If you have a cat, it might be a good idea to keep them indoors for a few weeks once you’ve moved, just until they get used to their new home. Increasing the number of litter trays for cats can also be helpful whilst they get to grips with their new living environment.
- Be considerate with packing: Pets can be very sensitive to even small changes around the house, so be conscious of packing and having lots of boxes around. Try and keep these to a minimum or out of your pets normal environment, so they don’t get anxious ahead of the big day.
- Utilise kennels/catteries: If your pet is used to going to a cattery/kennels/dog sitters, then consider booking them in for a few days before and after the moving date, this may reduce stress levels for you and for them! Maybe a family member could even help to look after them for a few days. It’s a good idea to have them out of the way on moving day too, as there will be a lot going on around them.
- Try calming diffusers: Using calming pheromone diffusers and sprays in the new house for four to eight weeks can help a pet settle in. These can be recommended by your local vet.
- Consider medication: Starting calming anti-anxiety supplements or medications at least four weeks before the move can be very helpful in settling pets ahead of a stressful event like moving house. These can normally be prescribed from your local vets and can be used alongside regular medications, even in older or more unwell pets. These come in a variety of forms, such as liquids, capsules, tablets, plug-ins, sprays and collars.
- Update your details: Don’t forget to change address on your pet’s microchip, insurance and vets account. From June 2024, it will be a legal requirement for cats to be microchipped (this is already a legal requirement for dogs) so make sure these details are up to date.
- Be realistic: Finally, you have to be realistic about moving home with pets. Pets are likely to be unsettled in their new surroundings, so ease them in gently and reassure them regularly.
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