Life changes
Moving House with Pets: A Low-Stress Plan
How to keep dogs, cats and small pets safe and settled before, during and after a move.
By Dr Hana LindqvistVeterinary review: Dr Elena Marsh6 min readPublished 2026-09-29Updated 2026-09-29
Before the move
Update microchip details with your new address and phone number. Find a new vet and bring medical records. Let pets get used to boxes early.
Moving day
Shut pets in a quiet room with a sign on the door, or board them for the day. Doors left open by movers are the most common way pets escape.
Settling in
- Set up one room first with familiar bedding, food and litter
- Keep cats indoors for at least two weeks
- Walk dogs on the lead until they know the area
- Check the garden for gaps and toxic plants
Watch for stress
Hiding, loss of appetite or toileting problems can happen. A cat that stops eating or a rabbit that stops passing droppings needs a vet promptly.
References
- Moving house with a cat — Cats Protection
- Microchipping — GOV.UK