Moving house is never without its fair share of stress – boxes everywhere, missing kettles, and the eternal hunt for Wi-Fi passwords. But while humans can just about manage with the mayhem, our furry, feathered, and even scaly companions can find it all quite unsettling.
With National Pet Month running until 1st May 2025, Wiltshire-based housebuilders Barratt David Wilson Homes South West and Barratt Homes have stepped in with some timely advice to make your house move smoother for all species involved.
It comes as no surprise that Britain remains a nation of pet lovers. In 2024, an estimated 60% of households had pets, totalling around 36 million non-aquatic animals – including over 12 million cats and 3.5 million dogs. As we welcome more pets into our homes, knowing how to move with them becomes increasingly relevant.
Louise Ware, Sales Director for Barratt David Wilson Homes South West, said: “Moving home can be unsettling for pets, so keeping their routine as consistent as possible is key. Follow our advice to make the transition smoother and you’ll be enjoying your new home together in no time.”
So, if you’re preparing for a house move and wondering how to keep your pet calm while everything around them changes, here are ten top tips from the experts:
Before the move…
1. Reassurance matters: Pets pick up on stress, so make time for extra cuddles and attention. When the packing starts, try to keep them away from the chaos.
2. Familiar smells help: Keep their bedding, toys, and feeding bowls close – familiar items are comforting in times of change.
3. Plan ahead: If your pet has travel anxiety or suffers from car sickness, speak to your vet well in advance for tailored advice.
During the move…
4. Safety first: Make sure your pet is secure – cats in carriers, dogs with harnesses, and birds or small mammals in well-ventilated cages. Keep them hydrated and plan breaks if you’re travelling far.
5. Calm environment: Keep noise and fuss to a minimum. If possible, leave pets with a trusted friend or family member during the actual move to reduce their exposure to the upheaval.
After the move…
6. Set up a retreat: Dedicate a quiet room with their usual comforts – their ‘safe space’ as you settle in.
7. Explore slowly: Don’t let pets roam free straight away. Introduce them to one room at a time so they can familiarise themselves with new smells and sounds.
8. Toilet troubles are normal: Don’t be alarmed if pets have a few accidents – stress affects behaviour. Reassurance and routine will soon restore calm.
9. Cats especially need patience: They often need longer to feel settled. A quiet hiding spot and limited space can help reduce anxiety.
10. Re-establish routine: Mealtimes, walks, and play should return to normal as quickly as possible – pets thrive on routine.
Whether you’re moving across town or to a completely new part of the country, a bit of preparation and a lot of patience will go a long way towards ensuring a happy transition – for both you and your pet.
For more advice from Barratt David Wilson Homes and other moving home tips, visit their website.
