Tips on Introducing a New Pet Into a Home That Already Has Pets
Animals use their sense of smell to become accustomed to other animals. When bringing any new pet into your home whether it is a cat or dog you have to slowly get them use to each other. You can try swapping or switching beds or blankets between your pets. This way they can get accustomed to each other's scent.
Another thing you can try is to let the new pet play and sleep where your other pets usually do. If you have a special room for your cat or dog you can put the new pet in there alone for awhile and this is another way to get your pets use to each others scent.
It is best if you introduce your pets to each other gradually so you can monitor their behavior with each other. You want to make sure that you stop any aggressive behavior when it happens. This way the animal knows that these types of actions are not acceptable. If one of the animals is acting very fearful or aggressive separate them and start the process over later.
You can expect there to be some growling or hissing especially from a puppy or kitten. It takes time for them to get to know each other. It is not advisable to leave the animals alone when they are getting to know each other. Since some animals are very territorial they may not like someone new in their home.
Once you bring your new pet into the home you should confine them in a comfortable space such as a crate or spare room. This gives the new pet a chance to get accustomed to its new surroundings. You might also want to contain the other animals in the home so the new one can explore and get use to the rest of its new home.
You want to keep introductions of new pets as pleasant as possible. When introducing new pets to each other you should have them on a leash or holding them close to you. By restraining them and soothing them it makes the experience more pleasant for everyone and there is less chance of an altercation occurring.
If an altercation occurs you should try to immediately separate the animals. It is now always wise to get into the middle of two fighting animals. The best way to break them up is by making a loud noise by shouting and clapping your hands. You can also throw a pillow at them or use a squirt bottle filled with water to separate the animals. Once you have them apart take them immediately to separate rooms. Make sure that you soothe both animals even the aggressor and let them know that everything is okay.
You should start out by making the initial contacts brief, about 5 to 10 minutes. Then you can gradually let them go longer and give the animals more freedom with each other. It takes some time but with patience soon your house will be running smoothly again. Try to make each experience enjoyable and handing out treats is always a good idea. Never punish a pet for being aggressive or fighting. Just remove them from the area. Your pets are just acting on instinct and are trying to protect their territory.
It will take a little time for your pets to adjust. Just remember that not all pets will be excited about another animal in their space and they will learn to tolerate them. However, on the other hand many pets become great companions for each other. Every pet has their own personality and it takes time for them to adjust to new things.
Your new pet will need extra attention because they are in a new environment and will feel scared and lonely. One thing you want to make sure you do is pay attention to your other pets that already live in the home. They need extra attention too. They are probably feeling left out and a little jealous and afraid the newest member of the household is going to take their place. Once everyone gets to know each other you will be glad that you have added more furry companions to your home.
To protect the four-legged members of your family you might want to consider buying pet insurance for your dogs or cats. Not only will this give you peace of mind; it will help you to afford expensive medical costs if your pet becomes ill or in an accident. Dog insurance and cat insurance can help ease the strain on your budget if you were faced with high veterinary bills.
