According to the Census Bureau, the average person will move around 11.7 times in their life. If you’ve ever moved by yourself, you’ll know how stressful it is. Now imagine how difficult it is on your pets! The American Pet Product Association reports that 71 percent of families own a pet. If you fall into that statistic, chances are you have a pet family member who you plan on bringing with you on your next adventure. Whether you’re relocating across town or across the country, your furry companion will sense the change in routine and environment, which can make them anxious. In order to keep them calm, the key is to prepare early: start packing early, gather the right travel supplies, update their identification and vet records, create a quiet space during moving day, and help them settle smoothly into the new home.
How Should I Prepare My Dog or Cat for the Move?
Both cats and dogs are creatures of habit. According to the ASPCA, introducing new things like boxes too suddenly can make your pets anxious. Instead, start the packing process early to help them adjust. Rather than try to pack a day or two before your move, start at least a month before. Not only does it help get your pets acclimated to the new environment, but it also gives you plenty of time to properly pack your belongings.
Pre-Move Preparation Timeline for Pet Owners
| Timeline | Tasks to Complete | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 4–6 Weeks Before Move | Schedule a vet check-up, update vaccinations, and request copies of your pet’s medical records. Begin introducing moving boxes gradually. | Ensures health compliance and helps pets adjust to early signs of change. |
| 3 Weeks Before Move | Confirm pet-friendly accommodations or transportation. Update ID tags and microchips with new contact info. | Prevents last-minute stress and reduces the risk of lost pets during travel. |
| 2 Weeks Before Move | Start packing non-essentials while maintaining your pet’s normal routine. Prepare a “pet essentials” travel bag. | Keeps pets comfortable and ensures you have quick access to their necessities. |
| 1 Week Before Move | Set up a quiet room with your pet’s bed, toys, and food/water bowls. Arrange boarding if needed for moving day. | Creates a calm, familiar space and prevents anxiety from packing chaos. |
| 1 Day Before Move | Secure carriers, double-check ID tags, and confirm travel arrangements. Pack food, medications, and comfort items separately. | Ensures a smooth, stress-free experience on moving day. |
| Moving Day | Keep pets in a closed, quiet room or secured carrier during loading/unloading. Maintain a regular feeding and walking schedule. | Prevents escape and keeps stress levels manageable throughout the move. |
| Arrival at New Home | Set up their familiar items right away—bed, bowls, toys, and litter box. Allow gradual exploration of new surroundings. | Helps pets feel secure and adjust quickly to the new environment. |
Besides that, make sure that your pets are up-to-date on their vaccinations and ask for current medical records for your pet. Many vet offices can send digital copies of your pet’s records to your new veterinarian, but it’s also smart to have a paper copy on hand. If you’re moving out of state or the country, many states and countries require certificates of veterinary inspection, so make sure to check your destination to see if that’s the case for you.
If you have pets that tend to be more on the anxious side, talk to your vet about ways to keep them relaxed. That might include supplements or medication to keep them calm.
Do I Need to Update My Cat or Dog’s ID Before Moving?
Absolutely! Update your pet’s ID and microchip with your new address and phone number (if applicable) before your move. According to Pet911, 1.7 million pets are lost every year, so having this updated information will make it much easier for your pet to be returned to you should they slip out during the moving process.
When it comes to collars, make sure it fits well and is in good condition. Make sure you include your contact information somewhere on your pet’s carrier and crate, too.
How Can I Fly With My Cat or Dog?
If you’re bringing your pet on a plane, most airlines will require documentation of their records. Make sure to research the specific airline on what kind of information they will need before you fly with them. Some airlines allow pets up to a certain weight limit to fly in the main cabin so long as the carrier can fit under the seat in front of you. Those over the weight limit will be placed in the cargo hold, so do your research! You will also have to pay a fee for your pet, and that varies by airline. Also, not all pets are allowed on flights, so make sure you know what is and is not allowed! Below are the links to pet policies for each airline:
- American Airlines Pet Policy
- Delta Pet Policy
- JetBlue Pet Policy
- Spirit Airlines Pet Policy
- United Airlines Pet Policy
How Can I Keep My Cat or Dog Calm During Moving Day?
Whether you’re moving cross-country or locally, moving day can be a very stressful process for you and your pet. Before the move, make sure to stick to your daily routine, including feeding, walking, playing, etc. While they might still be a bit anxious as you pack your house, keeping them on schedule will help ease some of their fears.
Top Pet Anxiety Solutions (Vet-Approved)
| Anxiety Level | Recommended Solution | Examples & Tips | When to Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mild | Soothing Sounds & Familiar Scents | Play calming music or white noise; use blankets or toys that smell like home. | During packing and short car rides. |
| Moderate | Natural Calming Aids | Try pheromone diffusers (like Adaptil or Feliway), calming treats, or herbal sprays with chamomile or lavender. | Before and during moving day, to reduce restlessness. |
| Severe | Prescription Anti-Anxiety Medication | Consult your vet for medications such as trazodone, gabapentin, or alprazolam (as prescribed). | For pets that experience panic attacks or destructive behavior. |
| Continuous | Behavioral Training & Desensitization | Gradually expose pets to travel gear, moving boxes, or short drives paired with treats and praise. | Start 4–6 weeks before the move and continue post-move. |
| All Levels | Routine & Owner Reassurance | Stick to regular feeding, play, and walk schedules; use a calm, reassuring tone. | Throughout the entire moving process and adjustment period. |
The constant in-and-out traffic on moving day can cause a lot of stress for your pets. If you can afford it, board them for the duration of the loading process and then pick them up once you’re ready to move into their new place. Of course, that’s not always an option. In that case, according to an Animal Behaviorist, you should also create a designated safe space for your pets. If possible, make sure to set your pets where you can securely close the door; that way, come moving day, you can close the door to ensure your pets don’t bolt while your boxes are being loaded and unloaded. You should also try to get them into their carrier or crate during the process for double security. Make sure to place it next to a wall and place a blanket or towel over it to keep them as calm as possible. Also, put some comfort items in their carrier/crate, such as blankets, beds, toys, and pet treats.
What Should I Pack for My Pet on Moving Day?
Much like you’d pack a necessities bag for yourself, do the same for your pet. Pack food, pet bowls, any medication, waste bags, collars and leashes, and their favorite toys. And don’t forget other items like litter boxes, litter, etc., if you have a cat. Don’t pack these items with the movers, as you want to have them immediately on hand should your pet need them.
Besides that, consider other items that would help your pet settle in their new home. That might be something like scratching posts, beds, and other pet paraphernalia to provide familiar smells and objects. Unpack these as soon as possible when you’re settled into your new home so that you will feel more comfortable.
How Do I Help My Cat or Dog Settle In Their New Home?
Pets don’t like change, so it can take some time for them to get used to their new place. The best thing you can do is set up a space for them that has all their familiar items. Cats tend to be more anxious than d`ogs, so it might be worth your while to set them up in your bedroom at least for the first week, so they can get used to their new surroundings. Just make sure you don’t forget to install their litterbox! Don’t force them out of their hiding spots, as this can make them more anxious.
Helping Your Pet Adjust to Their New Home
| Step | For Dogs | For Cats |
|---|---|---|
| Create a Familiar Space | Set up their bed, toys, and bowls in a quiet area. Keep familiar scents from the old home. | Set them up in a small, quiet room (like your bedroom) with their litter box, bed, and toys. |
| Explore the New Home | Take them on slow, supervised walks to let them sniff and explore their surroundings. | Let them explore one room at a time—don’t force them out of hiding spots. |
| Stick to Routine | Maintain the same feeding, playtime, and walking schedule as before. | Feed, clean, and play at the same time as before to maintain consistency. |
| Offer Comfort and Reassurance | Use a calm, happy tone and spend time playing to reassure them they’re safe. | Sit quietly near them, speak softly, and let them come to you when they’re ready. |
| Monitor Adjustment | Watch for signs of stress like pacing or loss of appetite; adjust routine if needed. | Look for signs of comfort like grooming, eating normally, and sleeping in the open. |
Explore your new place with your dog and allow them time to sniff around. Make sure you stick to your daily walking routine and allow them the opportunity to explore their new area. Don’t rush them during the walk, and let them sniff around, as it will allow them time to get acclimated. While they are exploring, make sure to talk to them in a calm and happy voice to reassure them that they are in a safe place.
For all pets, the best thing you can do is keep your routine. Keep feedings and cleanings at the same times as before. Keeping the routine will give them structure and familiarity in their new environment and will help them settle faster.
Make Moving Day Easy With Pets
Moving with a pet might seem like a huge undertaking, but these pet relocation tips above can help make it easier for you and your pet friends. The key is to plan ahead, stick to a routine, and give your friend plenty of space and patience to get used to their new surroundings.
FAQ
Can I bring my pet to a hotel?
More hotels are pet friendly, but not all of them. Make sure to do your research and if there’s no information give them a call to see if they accept your pet and if there might be an additional pet fee.
My pet gets carsick, how do I manage it during a move?
Talk to your vet and they may prescribe you with some medication to help them with their motion sickness. Your vet might prescribe something like antihistamines or an anti-anxiety medication.
How long does it take for a pet to adjust to a new home?
Every pet is different and it depends on their personality. Cats tend to take longer than dogs to get used to a new place. Ultimately, it’s your job as a pet owner to give them time to explore their new surroundings without interruption while also providing extra support.
What’s the best way to transport small animals (rats, hamsters, etc)?
Use a secure carrier with soft bedding and cover it with a blanket or towel to reduce stress. Make sure the carrier is well ventilated and avoid moving them in extreme hot or cold temperatures.
Can a moving company help move my pet?
Moving companies will not move your pet. Instead, look into professional pet relocation services such as Continental Pet Relocation.
How do I move long-distance with a pet?
If you’re driving with your pet, make sure to allow for plenty of bathroom breaks and fresh water. It would also help to prepare your care for the trip by putting down weewee pads under the carrier/crate to avoid urine soaking into your car seat.
