{"id":7965,"date":"2026-05-20T09:14:01","date_gmt":"2026-05-20T09:14:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/?p=7965"},"modified":"2026-05-20T09:15:10","modified_gmt":"2026-05-20T09:15:10","slug":"moving-with-pets-how-to-make-the-transition-stress-free","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/pet-health\/moving-with-pets-how-to-make-the-transition-stress-free\/","title":{"rendered":"Moving with Pets: How to Make the Transition Stress-Free"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Moving homes is one of life&#8217;s biggest milestones. But if you share your home with a dog or a cat, there is one more thing to plan for your pet&#8217;s wellbeing through the entire process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pets thrive on routine and familiar smells. A move disrupts both. The good news? With the right preparation, you can make moving with pets a much calmer experience for them and for yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Why Moving with Pets Can Be Stressful for Dogs and Cats<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Pets do not understand what a move means. What they do understand is change and change can be unsettling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here is what typically stresses them out:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Packing and boxes disrupt the familiar layout of your home<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Loud noises, strangers, and unfamiliar activity on moving day<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Loss of scent markers that made your old home feel safe<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A new space with no familiar smells or routines<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Changes in your own mood and energy pets pick up on stress<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Dogs and <a href=\"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/cats\/is-my-cat-in-stress-or-sick-signs-of-stress-and-sickess-how-to-reduce-stress-in-cats\/\">cats handle this differently<\/a>, though. Dogs tend to be more adaptable, but they can develop anxiety if they feel left out or unsettled. Cats, on the other hand, are highly territorial and a new home can feel genuinely threatening to them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Understanding this helps you tailor your approach for each pet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Preparing Your Pet Before Moving Day<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The weeks before the move matter as much as the move itself. A little preparation goes a long way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>For Dogs<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Keep their routine intact for as long as possible, same <a href=\"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/healthy-lifestyle\/how-often-should-you-walk-your-dog\/\">walk times<\/a>, feeding schedule, and bedtime.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Introduce the moving boxes early. Let your dog sniff them and get comfortable with them as part of the space.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If your dog is anxious, start short visits to the new neighbourhood so they can start building new scent associations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Talk to your vet if your dog has a history of travel anxiety or <a href=\"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/dogs\/managing-separation-anxiety-in-dogs-behavioural-training-crate-training-for-dogs-and-more\/\">separation anxiety.<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>For Cats<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Do not rearrange furniture or change feeding areas suddenly in the weeks before the move.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bring out the carrier weeks in advance. Leave it open with a soft blanket inside so your cat starts seeing it as a safe space, not a trap.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use a pheromone diffuser (like Feliway) in your current home a few weeks before the move to help lower baseline anxiety.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoid introducing any other major changes: new pets, new people, new food during this period.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Vet Tip: Schedule a pre-move vet visit. Ensure vaccinations are up to date, get copies of medical records, and discuss anxiety management if needed.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to Prepare Your New Home When Moving with Pets<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Before your pet sets foot in the new place, do a little groundwork.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Safety First<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Check for gaps in fencing, open vents, loose balcony railings, or gaps under doors<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Secure windows with screens cats especially are prone to jumping<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Remove or lock away toxic plants, cleaning products, and chemicals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Identify any small, dark spaces where a frightened cat or small dog might hide and get stuck<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Create a Comfort Zone<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Set up a dedicated area for your pet before they arrive familiar bedding, water bowl, litter box, and toys<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use an unwashed item of your clothing to scent the space before your pet enters<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For cats, <a href=\"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/pet-health\/what-are-cats-afraid-of-common-fears-anxiety-help\/\">plug in a pheromone diffuser<\/a> in the room you plan to confine them to initially<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For dogs, set up their crate or bed in a quiet spot away from the main moving activity<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Essential Checklist for Moving with Pets<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Health and Travel Documents<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Updated vaccination records<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Anti-parasitic treatment history (deworming, tick and flea prevention)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Any ongoing prescriptions or medical notes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Microchip registration details<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Contact information for your current vet and your new vet<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If travelling interstate or internationally: health certificates and any required permits<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Packing Pet Essentials<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Food (at least a week&#8217;s supply of current food avoid switching brands during this period)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Water from your current home or familiar bottled water sudden water changes can upset stomachs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Food and water bowls<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bedding and blankets with familiar scents<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Favourite toys or comfort items<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Litter box and litter (for cats)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Leash, collar, and harness (for dogs)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Carrier or crate<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Waste bags<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Any medications or supplements<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>First aid kit for pets<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Identification and Safety Measures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ensure your pet&#8217;s microchip is registered to your new address before the move<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Update the ID tag on their collar with your new address and a working phone number<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Take a clear, recent photo of your pet in case they go missing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Note the location of the nearest 24-hour vet clinic in your new area<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Suggested Read: <\/em><\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/pet-care\/guide-for-working-dog-owners-leaving-your-dog-alone-at-home-safely\/\"><strong><em>Guide for Working Dog Owners: Leaving Your Dog Alone At Home Safely<\/em><\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Moving with Cats: Tips to Make the Transition Easier<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Moving with cats deserves its own section because the experience is genuinely different from moving with dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cats are territorial by nature. Your old home was their territory. The new home is an unknown space full of strange smells and no familiar markers. This can be deeply unsettling for them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>On Moving Day<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Confine your cat to one quiet room before the movers arrive ideally with a sign on the door so no one accidentally lets them out<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep their carrier, food, litter, and water in this room<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do not let them roam the house during the chaos of packing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Transport them in a well-ventilated carrier covered with a light cloth to reduce visual stimulation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>At the New Home<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Start small. Confine your cat to one room for the first few days<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Make sure this room has everything they need: litter box, food, water, bed, and a hiding spot<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do not force them to explore. Let them come out when they feel ready<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gradually open up access to more rooms over the following week<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep litter boxes in quiet, accessible spots at least one per cat, plus one extra<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Key Insight: Most cats take one to four weeks to start feeling comfortable in a new home. Some may take longer. Patience is the most important thing you can offer.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Outdoor Cats<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Keep them strictly indoors for the first three to four weeks they need time to register the new home as their base<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Make sure microchip details and collar tags are updated before letting them outside<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Supervised outdoor access first then gradually allow independent time outside<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Moving Day Tips to Keep Your Pet Calm and Safe<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Moving day is chaotic. Here is how to protect your pet from the worst of it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"5\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Designate a safe room in your current home. Keep your pet there with a trusted person or a familiar caregiver while the movers are active.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use calming aids if needed. Pheromone sprays, calming collars, or <a href=\"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/pet-health\/how-to-cure-anxiety-in-dogs-medication-and-behavioural-training\/\">vet-prescribed anti-anxiety medication<\/a> can help dogs and cats who are particularly sensitive.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do not change feeding times. Stick to your regular schedule as much as possible.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoid making a big fuss. Prolonged goodbyes or anxious energy from you can heighten your pet&#8217;s stress. Stay calm and matter-of-fact.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Move your pet last. Once the furniture and boxes are loaded, move your pet to the new home so they spend as little time as possible in transit.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check in regularly. If your pet is in a separate room, pop in calmly every hour or so.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Safety Note: Never leave your pet unattended in a car during a move, especially in warm weather. Heat in enclosed vehicles can be fatal.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Travelling Safely When Moving with Pets<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you are travelling by car, train, or air, safety and comfort during the journey are essential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>By Car<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Use a well-ventilated carrier or a secured crate pets should never travel loose in the car<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do not let dogs ride with their head out of the window; it risks eye injury and debris inhalation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep the car cool and well-ventilated<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Take breaks every two hours for dogs offer water and a short walk<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do not feed a large meal right before travel; a light meal two to three hours before is better<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Never leave your pet alone in a parked car<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>By Air<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Check the airline&#8217;s specific pet policy well in advance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Small pets may travel in-cabin; larger pets travel in the hold discuss both options with your vet<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ensure the carrier meets airline dimensions and is IATA-approved for hold travel<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Get a health certificate from your vet most airlines require one issued within 10 days of travel<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do not sedate your pet without specific vet guidance sedation can be dangerous at altitude<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to Help Your Pet Adjust to a New Home<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The move is done now comes the settling-in phase. This is where your consistency really matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>For Dogs<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Re-establish routines immediately walks, meals, and sleep times at the same hours as before<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Explore the new neighbourhood together on leash before allowing any off-leash time<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Give plenty of positive reinforcement treats, praise, and play as they discover new spaces<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep initial visitors minimal. Too many new faces at once can overwhelm an anxious dog<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>For Cats<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Follow the gradual room-expansion approach described earlier<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Place used litter from the old home in the new litter box familiar scent is reassuring<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rub a soft cloth on your cat&#8217;s cheeks (where their scent glands are) and wipe it on furniture in the new home to help them scent-mark without scratching<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provide vertical spaces cat trees, shelves, or high perches so they feel in control of their environment<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>General Tips for All Pets<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Spend extra quality time with your pet in the first few weeks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoid any other major changes during the adjustment period<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep familiar items their old bed, blanket, or toys in prominent spots<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Common Signs of Stress in Pets After Moving<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Some stress after a move is completely normal. Knowing what to look for helps you respond early.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>In Dogs<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Excessive barking, whining, or howling<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Destructive behaviour chewing furniture, digging<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Restlessness or pacing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/pet-health\/why-is-my-dog-not-eating-what-should-i-do\/\">Loss of appetite<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inappropriate elimination (urinating or defecating indoors)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Clinginess or, conversely, withdrawal<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Yawning, lip licking, or panting excessively (stress signals)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>In Cats<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Hiding for extended periods<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Refusing to eat or drink<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Urinating or defecating outside the litter box<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Excessive grooming or, conversely, neglecting grooming<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Vocalising more than usual<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aggression towards people or other pets<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Spraying or scent marking<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Most of these behaviours resolve within one to four weeks as your pet settles in. However, if they persist or worsen, it is time to act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>When to Worry About Your Pet&#8217;s Behaviour After Moving<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Not every behavioural change after a move needs a vet visit. But <a href=\"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/pet-care\/pet-first-aid-the-signs-of-emergency-in-pets\/\">some signs<\/a> should not be ignored.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Monitor your pet closely and contact your vet if you notice:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Complete refusal to eat for more than 24 to 48 hours<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Blood in urine or faeces<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inability to urinate especially in male cats, this is a medical emergency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Extreme lethargy or unresponsiveness<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Self-harm behaviours such as excessive scratching or chewing at their skin<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Signs of panic attacks trembling, drooling, inability to settle<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>When to See a Vet During or After Moving with Pets<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are specific moments in the moving process when a vet visit is strongly advisable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Before the Move<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>General health check to confirm your pet is fit for travel<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Updating vaccinations and parasite prevention<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Collecting medical records and prescription refills<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Discussing anxiety management strategies or medications if your pet has a history of stress<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>During or After the Move<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>If your pet shows prolonged stress that does not improve within two weeks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If they stop eating, drinking, or using the litter box<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If there are signs of physical illness vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If your cat has not urinated in more than 24 hours<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If your dog is showing signs of severe anxiety that interfere with daily function<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Remember: A new vet visit after settling in is a great idea anyway. It helps establish a relationship with a local clinic before an emergency arises.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Mistakes to Avoid When Moving with Pets<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Even with the best intentions, some common mistakes can make things harder for your pet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Letting your pet roam unsupervised on moving day. The doors will be open, there will be strangers, and things will be chaotic. Keep them safely contained.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Giving them free rein of the new home immediately. An overwhelmed pet needs small, manageable spaces first.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Changing food at the same time as the move. Any dietary change should wait until your pet has settled. Digestive upsets on top of stress is not a good combination.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sedating your pet without vet guidance. Over-the-counter sedatives are not designed for pets and can have unpredictable effects.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Punishing stress-related behaviour. Inappropriate urination or destructive behaviour after a move is usually anxiety, not defiance. Punishment makes anxiety worse.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Neglecting identification updates. If your pet bolts in a new neighbourhood, outdated microchip or tag details make it much harder to reunite.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Disappearing for long periods right away. The first few days are when your pet needs your presence most. If you must be away, arrange for someone familiar to stay with them.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Final Thoughts: Making Moving with Pets Easier and Stress-Free<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Moving homes with a pet is absolutely manageable; it just requires a little extra planning and a lot of patience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The key principles are simple:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Prepare early both your pet and your new home<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep routines as stable as possible throughout the process<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Let your pet set the pace in the new space<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Watch for stress signals and respond early<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do not hesitate to involve your vet when in doubt<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Your pet does not understand the reasons for the move. But they do understand your calm presence, familiar smells, and consistent care. That is ultimately what makes a new house feel like home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>FAQ: Moving with Pets<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How long does it take for pets to adjust after moving?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>It varies. Most dogs settle into a new home within one to two weeks, especially with consistent routines. Cats typically take longer anywhere from two to six weeks, sometimes more. Senior pets or those with anxiety may take up to a few months. Consistent care and patience are key.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Is moving more stressful for cats or dogs?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Generally, cats find moving more stressful than dogs. Cats are highly territorial animals and rely heavily on scent to feel safe. Dogs, as social animals, are more focused on their people as long as you are present and their routine continues, they tend to adapt more readily. That said, every individual animal is different.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How can I reduce anxiety when moving with cats?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Start by keeping their routine undisturbed for as long as possible before the move. Use pheromone diffusers like Feliway at both your current and new home. On moving day, confine them to one quiet room. In the new home, give them one room to start with, and expand access slowly. Familiar scents, your worn clothing, and their old bedding are powerful calming tools. If your cat is particularly anxious, speak to your vet about short-term anti-anxiety support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Should I sedate my pet for travel during a move?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Sedation is not recommended unless specifically prescribed by your vet for your individual pet. Many over-the-counter calming products are not truly sedatives and have limited evidence. True sedation at altitude (if flying) can affect a pet&#8217;s ability to breathe and maintain balance. If you are concerned about travel anxiety, speak to your vet. There are safe, evidence-based options they can prescribe based on your pet&#8217;s size, age, and health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What should I do if my pet refuses to eat after moving?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A day or two of reduced appetite is normal after a move. Keep offering food at regular times in a quiet, calm spot. Do not hover or fuss; it can add pressure. Warm the food slightly to enhance the aroma. If your pet has not eaten for more than 48 hours, or if they also seem lethargic, unwell, or are not drinking water, contact your vet. In cats especially, prolonged anorexia can lead to a serious liver condition called hepatic lipidosis and should not be left unaddressed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>References:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mart\u00ednez-Byer, S., Bhattacharya, S., &amp; Taylor, S. (2022). Impact of changes in time left alone on separation-related behaviour in UK pet dogs. <em>Animals, 12<\/em>(4), 473.<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC8868415\/\"> https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC8868415\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pereira, J. S., Fragoso, S., Beck, A., Lavigne, S., Varej\u00e3o, A. S., &amp; Pereira, G. G. (2016). Improving the feline veterinary consultation: The usefulness of Feliway spray in reducing cats&#8217; stress. <em>Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 18<\/em>(12), 959\u2013964.<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/1098612X15599420\"> https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/1098612X15599420<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Valtolina, C., &amp; Favier, R. P. (2017). Feline hepatic lipidosis. <em>Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 47<\/em>(3), 683\u2013702.<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.cvsm.2016.11.014\"> https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.cvsm.2016.11.014<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Webb, C. B. (2018). Hepatic lipidosis: Clinical review drawn from collective effort. <em>Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 20<\/em>(3), 217\u2013227.<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/1098612X18758591\"> https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/1098612X18758591<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Moving homes is one of life&#8217;s biggest milestones. But if you share your home with a dog or a cat, there is one more thing to plan for your pet&#8217;s&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[130,118,119,65,64],"tags":[249,250,251,248],"class_list":["post-7965","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-case-study","category-cats","category-dogs","category-pet-care","category-pet-health","tag-cat-relocation","tag-dog-relocation","tag-moving-with-pets","tag-pet-relocation"],"acf":[],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7965","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/9"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7965"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7965\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7966,"href":"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7965\/revisions\/7966"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7965"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7965"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7965"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}