How to Move House with Pets in London
Moving house is stressful enough without worrying about your pets. Whether you have cats, dogs, rabbits, or more exotic animals, a house move disrupts their routine, removes familiar scents, and introduces frightening new environments. With careful preparation, you can minimise the stress for your animals — and for yourself.
Before the Move
Update Microchip Details and ID Tags
Before you move, update your pet's microchip details with your new address through the relevant database (Petlog, Microchip Central, etc.). If your pet wears an ID tag, order a new one with the new address before moving day. This is one of the most important things you can do — even pets who never escape at home may panic and bolt during a move.
Visit the Vet
Schedule a pre-move vet visit to check your pet is healthy for the move. Ask about anti-anxiety options if your pet is particularly prone to stress — there are prescription medications and natural remedies (Adaptil, Feliway, Zylkene) that can help. Transfer your pet's records to a vet near your new home before you move.
Keep Routines as Normal as Possible
Animals are sensitive to change. In the weeks leading up to the move, try to keep feeding times, exercise routines, and sleeping arrangements as consistent as possible. Avoid major changes like new diets or new sleeping spots in the run-up to moving day.
Moving Day
Keep Pets Away from the Chaos
Moving day is dangerous for pets — doors are constantly open, strangers are coming and going, and there's significant noise and activity. The safest option is to keep pets with a trusted friend or in a cattery/kennel for the day. If this isn't possible, confine them to one room (the room that's being emptied last) with their bed, toys, food, and water.
Use a Secure Carrier or Crate
Transport cats and small dogs in a secure carrier. Line it with familiar-smelling bedding from your old home. Cover the carrier with a breathable cloth to reduce visual stress. Make the carrier a comfortable, familiar place in the days before the move — not just on moving day.
Dogs in the Car
Dogs should travel in the car with you rather than in the removal van. Secure them safely with a harness or crate. Make sure they've been exercised well before setting off, and carry water for the journey. Stop for breaks on longer journeys.
At Your New Home
Set Up a Sanctuary Room First
Before letting pets explore, set up one room completely — their bed, toys, food, water, and litter tray (for cats). Let them settle in this room while the rest of the house is unpacked. This gives them a secure base in an overwhelming new environment.
Cats: Take It Slowly
Keep cats indoors for at least two to three weeks after the move — until they are completely settled and have bonded with the new space. Introduce them to rooms gradually. When you do let them outside, do so when they're hungry so they'll come back for food.
Spray Familiar Scents
Feliway (for cats) or Adaptil (for dogs) diffusers or sprays can help establish a sense of familiar calm in a new environment. Place them in the sanctuary room before you introduce your pet.
Moving with Specialist Animals
Fish, birds, reptiles, and small mammals all have specific needs during transport. Consult your vet in advance about the best transport conditions for your particular species. Many reptiles and tropical fish require temperature control throughout the journey.
Planning Your London Move?
Fair Price Movers handles hundreds of family moves — including those with beloved pets — across London every month. We understand that moving day is stressful for everyone in the family. Get a free fixed-price quote or call us on 020 7101 4364.