Animals, especially dogs and cats They usually notice that something is about to happen even before Before you start assembling the boxes. Not only does this move change people’s routine and stability, it can also change A complex process for petsWho are aware of changes in the emotions, smells and movements of their guardians.
“Animals are aware of changes even before they start moving because they are watching us a lot. The main thing is to be attentive. Humans tend to get very nervous during movements, and they You will notice these changes In us, and in many cases it can reach Get stressed“, warns Carolina Marco del Pont, dog breeder and cat bonding guru.
Mara Romina Ritrovati, a dog trainer who specializes in breeding multiple species, agrees: “Signs of stress are many and every animal will show them to a greater or lesser degree.” Among the most common indicators of stress in animals, the specialist lists the following:
Obvious signs of stress:
Other more subtle signs:
Experts agree that the key exists Plan this step in advance. It is not recommended to wait until the last minute: Changes should be incorporated gradually So that the animal can process it without problems. It is also important to consider The personality of each pet. If they are particularly delicate, it is best to leave them in familiar surroundings while you pack boxes and move furniture. “For fearful animals, seeing strangers entering and disrupting their territory can be very disturbing,” warns Ritrovati.
One of the simplest but effective strategies is Introduce moving elements little by little. “We can take out some boxes and leave them a few days before so the animal can smell and explore them, keeping their daily routine as stable as possible,” suggests Ritrovati.
In the case of cats, which are territorial animals and do not tolerate moving to different places in the same day, the ideal is a preparation Safe roomWhere they can stay while moving. “This room should have all its resources: food, water, scratching post, litter tray and toys. This way we avoid the stress of moving boxes and furniture,” explains Marco Del Pont.
It’s essential, Ritrovati adds Get your cat used to the carrier over time If necessary, use Pheromones or essential oils Which promotes relaxation.
In the case of dogs, Take them to see the new house before moving in It can make a difference. “It is very helpful to let them smell the space and do licking, chewing or sniffing activities there, as these experiences help to associate the new space with a state of calm,” says Marco Del Pont.
In addition, there are breeds that require special care during transportation. Ritrovati warns against brachycephalic, Such as pugs, French bulldogs, Persian or Himalayan cats, which due to the shape of their head have more difficulty breathing and regulating body temperature. “If the move is in the summer, we add pressure to that, as they may be affected by the process more than the rest,” he explains. In these cases, it is recommended Keep it in cool places, avoid physical exertion, and consult your vet When there is any sign of shortness of breath or fatigue.
Moving day can be especially chaotic. To reduce stress, the ideal is Keep pets away from movement. Cats must stay in the room prepared in advance, while dogs can stay at a family member’s home or at a day care center. In this way, excessive exposure to noise and the risk of its escape are avoided.
With regard to transportation, Cats should always travel in a carrier; Dogs, if they are not accustomed to this, should do this using a harness and harness. The less they watch their environment being dismantled, the better their subsequent adaptation will be.
Once installed, Adaptation periodWhich can last between one and three weeks. The duration depends on the animal’s age, temperament and the calmness that the guardians are able to convey.
During the first days, it is recommended Maintain familiar routines: Walking and feeding schedules, familiar objects and safe spaces. “Routine is an emotional anchor,” Ritrovati highlights. Dogs tend to adapt faster if they are provided with a familiar environment, while cats need more time and controlled spaces to explore little by little.
In this process, associated behaviors Anxiety or confusion. “Cats may meow more or knock food out of the tray; dogs may break things or stay at the door waiting for their family,” Ritrovati describes. If these behaviors persist, this is important Consult with a professional. He recommends that “seeking help as soon as possible prevents behaviors from becoming entrenched.”
Marco del Pont agrees: “With any change in behavior, you should first rule out medical causes with a veterinarian. If everything goes well, you can work with a dog or cat trainer or an ethicist to design a coping plan.”
The game also plays an essential role. “Foraging through scent relaxes and stimulates dogs and cats alike,” Ritrovati explains. Marco del Pont adds that activities Environmental enrichment Such as licking, chewing, or predatory play, help strengthen the bond and relieve stress, although they must be incorporated gradually and with professional guidance.
Moving with a pet involves more than just changing addresses: This means accompanying another family member In a process full of new stimuli and new life in the future. “They don’t understand that we are starting a new phase,” says the specialist, “but they understand how we feel. If we can experience this step calmly and with compassion, they will be able to do it too.”
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