Moving house is a stressful process for everyone involved, but often pets get overlooked during this busy time.

The RSPCA is encouraging buyers to plan in advance and minimise the impact on pets as they get used to settling into their new home and below are 5 useful tips to make sure your pets move stress free..

 

Make sure your pets are fit to travel and if in any doubt, contact your vet. Minimise your journey time by planning your route and maintain suitable comfort and environmental conditions.

 

Try to keep your pet away from the all the commotion of the packing, unpacking, moving and cleaning to help reduce their stress.

 

Speak to your vet about artificial pheromone products, for example Feliway for cats and Adaptil for dogs – these may help to make your pet feel more secure and settled in their new home.

 

Update your contact details with your pet insurers, vets, microchip and any ID tags.

 

When in the new house, try to keep to the same routine with your pets as you had in your previous home.

 

Cats in particular may find a house move stressful as they can become attached to where they live. At your new house, keep your cat indoors for a minimum of two to three weeks before letting them out, and then let them out for short periods to start with and build this up, as this will allow your cat to become more confident.