Tips for Moving With Dogs & Cats often start with understanding that relocation is not just a change for you it’s a big adjustment for your pets too. Both dogs and moving challenges and cats and moving challenges can cause stress because pets thrive on routine and familiar surroundings. A new home means new smells, sights, and sounds, which can make your dog anxious or your cat unsettled. That’s why planning for your dog or cat’s emotional and physical comfort is just as important as packing your boxes. Unlike moving without pets, relocating with animals requires extra steps such as maintaining routines, preparing carriers, and creating safe spaces so your furry companions can transition smoothly into their new environment.
Why It Can Be Difficult to Move With a Dog or Cat
Stress and Anxiety in Pets
When moving with pets, it’s important to understand that dogs and cats experience stress in different ways. A change in environment can make a dog anxious because they rely heavily on routine, familiar scents, and their owner’s presence. Cats, on the other hand, are territorial and tend to feel more stressed when their safe space changes suddenly. The sight of boxes, the sound of movers working, and the absence of their familiar environment can lead to restlessness, excessive vocalization, or hiding. This stress can start days before the move and continue until they feel secure in the new home.
Behavioral Issues
During the process of moving with a dog or cat, you might notice sudden changes in behavior. Unfamiliar sounds like moving trucks, furniture being shifted, and footsteps from strangers can make dogs bark excessively or show signs of fear. Cats may hide, refuse to eat, or become more defensive. The combination of strange sights, smells, and noises can lead to unpredictable reactions. Dogs might pull on their leash more during walks in a new neighborhood, while cats may hiss or avoid interaction until they feel safe again.
Safety Concerns
Safety is a major concern when moving with pets. During loading and unloading, doors are often left open, and movers are constantly coming in and out. This increases the risk of a dog slipping out the door or a cat darting away to hide. Long car rides during the move can also be stressful and risky if pets aren’t secured in a carrier or pet seatbelt. Even in the new home, unpacked boxes, sharp objects, or unstable furniture can be dangerous for curious pets. Planning ahead, securing pets during the move, and giving them a designated safe space can help reduce these risks.
Getting Your Cat Ready to Move
Create a Safe Space
When it comes to cats and moving, creating a safe space is one of the most important steps. Cats are sensitive to change, and the chaos of packing and movers coming in and out can overwhelm them. A quiet room with their bed, toys, food, and litter box can help them feel secure. If you don’t have a spare room, a large crate with familiar blankets can serve as a temporary safe haven until moving day arrives.
Acclimate to the Carrier
Many cats dislike carriers, so it’s best to introduce them gradually before moving with pets. Place the carrier in your home several weeks before the move, leaving the door open with treats or toys inside. This helps your cat see it as a safe, comfortable space rather than a trap. By moving day, they’ll be less likely to resist when it’s time to travel.
Maintain Familiar Routines
Keeping routines consistent is key when preparing cats and moving to a new home. Maintain regular feeding times and keep their litter box in its usual place until the last possible moment. Familiar scents and routines help reduce anxiety and make the transition easier. Even in the new home, try to set up their essentials in a quiet corner before introducing them to the rest of the space.
Vet Check-Up
Before moving with pets, schedule a vet appointment to ensure your cat is healthy and ready for the journey. Ask about any vaccinations that may be due, and consider microchipping in case your cat gets lost during the move. A health check will also help identify any issues that could make the transition more stressful for your cat.
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Getting Your Dog Ready to Move
Exercise and Play
One of the best ways to reduce anxiety when it comes to dogs and moving is through exercise and play. A long walk, a game of fetch, or a fun training session before moving day can help burn off extra energy and keep your dog calm. Physical activity not only tires them out but also helps release stress, making them more relaxed during the chaos of packing and loading.
Familiarization
Dogs can feel uneasy about new experiences, so gradual familiarization is key. Introduce them to their travel crate, pet seatbelt, or harness several weeks before the move. Let them explore it at their own pace, rewarding them with treats or praise. This way, when dogs and moving day arrives, they’ll already be comfortable with the equipment needed for safe travel.
Training Cues
Basic commands such as “stay,” “wait,” or “come” are incredibly useful during a move. They can prevent accidents when movers are going in and out of the house or when doors are open. Practice these cues daily leading up to the move so your dog responds reliably even in stressful situations. Training becomes a valuable safety tool in the busy environment of dogs and moving preparations.
Vet Visit
Before moving, schedule a vet appointment for a health check. Ensure your dog’s vaccinations are up to date and discuss any travel-related concerns with your vet. Update their ID tags and consider microchipping if you haven’t already. These precautions are essential for keeping your dog safe during the transition to a new home, especially in the unpredictable environment of dogs and moving.
Tips for Moving With Dogs & Cats
Pack a Pet Essentials Bag
When moving with pets, prepare a dedicated bag with everything your dog or cat will need for the first few days in your new home. Include food, water, bowls, medications, toys, bedding, and any grooming supplies they may need. Having these items on hand prevents unnecessary stress and ensures your pets feel cared for during the transition.
Keep Pets Away from Movers
The activity of movers going in and out can overwhelm animals. For both dogs and moving and cats and moving, it’s best to keep pets in a quiet, closed room or with a trusted friend on moving day. This not only reduces stress but also prevents the risk of them slipping out an open door in the chaos of the move.
Avoid Changing Food Abruptly
Switching food suddenly can upset your pet’s stomach. When moving with pets, stick to their usual diet for at least a few weeks before and after the move. If you must change brands, do so gradually by mixing the new food with the old to help them adjust without digestive issues.
Stick to Familiar Items
Familiar scents are comforting to pets in a new environment. Bring along their favorite blankets, toys, or bedding from your old home. These items carry the scent of familiarity, which can help both dogs and cats settle more quickly after the move, making the adjustment period smoother and less stressful.
On the Day of My Move, What Should I Do With My Pets?
Safe Containment
When moving with pets, the safest option is to keep them in a quiet, secure space away from all the activity. You can use a spare room with the door closed or a comfortable pet carrier with their favorite blanket. This prevents them from getting underfoot or slipping out unnoticed during the chaos of moving day.
Minimize Exposure to Movers
Both dogs and moving activities and cats and moving stress can escalate when pets are exposed to constant noise, strangers, and movement. Keeping them away from the movers helps prevent overstimulation and keeps their anxiety levels lower. It also reduces the chance of fear-based behavior such as barking, scratching, or hiding.
Consider Temporary Boarding
If your pet is extremely anxious, boarding them for the day can be a good solution. Many pet boarding facilities or trusted friends can provide a calm, safe environment until your new home is ready. This option can be especially helpful for pets that don’t adapt well to unfamiliar activity during moving with pets situations.
Check Frequently
Even if pets are contained in a safe space, check on them regularly. Make sure they have fresh water, a small meal if it’s feeding time, and bathroom breaks if needed. Taking a few moments throughout the day to offer comfort and reassurance helps them feel secure until the move is complete.
When to Require Professional Help
Pet Relocation Services
For long-distance or complex moves, professional pet relocation services can make the process smoother and far less stressful. These specialists handle safe transportation, paperwork, and any special care your pets may require along the way. This is particularly useful when moving with pets across state lines or internationally.
Veterinary Advice
If your pet has ongoing health concerns or suffers from anxiety, consult your veterinarian well before moving day. They can provide advice on calming strategies, prescribe medications if necessary, and recommend safe travel practices. This ensures your pet’s comfort and well-being throughout the moving process.
Professional Movers Experienced With Pets
Some professional movers understand the unique needs of pet owners. If you’re planning a relocation in Los Angeles, especially when using a moving service in Sherman Oaks, look for movers who can work around your pets’ routines. They can manage packing, loading, and unloading efficiently while keeping your furry friends safe and undisturbed.
Ready for a stress-free move? Let our trusted team handle every detail while you focus on keeping your pets comfortable. Contact Chamomile Go today for dependable moving service in Sherman Oaks to make your next move smooth, safe, and worry-free for both you and your pets.
FAQs
1. How Can I Prepare My Dog Or Cat For A Move?
Start by creating a safe, quiet space where your pet can feel secure during packing. Gradually introduce them to their travel carrier or harness and keep their daily routines consistent. This helps reduce stress and makes the moving process easier for both dogs and moving and cats and moving situations
2. Should I Keep My Pets With Me Or Use A Boarding Facility On Moving Day?
It depends on your pet’s temperament. Some pets do better staying in a quiet room away from movers, while others are less stressed in a boarding facility or with a trusted friend. Boarding can be especially helpful for anxious pets during moving with pets situations
3. What Should I Pack For My Pets On Moving Day?
Prepare a pet essentials bag with food, water, bowls, medications, toys, and bedding. Having these ready ensures your pets are comfortable and cared for while your belongings are being moved
4. How Can I Keep My Pets Safe While Movers Are In And Out Of The House?
Contain pets in a closed room or crate to prevent them from escaping. This also keeps them away from loud noises and heavy moving equipment, which can be stressful and dangerous
5. Do Dogs And Cats Adjust To New Homes At The Same Pace?
No. Dogs often adapt faster because they focus on their owners for comfort. Cats are more territorial and may take longer to explore and feel safe in a new space. Keep familiar items like blankets and toys available to help them settle in faster
