PetHealth

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Different strokes for different folks Some pets take next to no time to form close relationships and become best buddies, while others eventually just accept they need to tolerate the existence of another introducing a pet to your pack, you don’t want to force it. Make sure you load up with plenty of treats as rewards for good behaviour. In the coming weeks, don’t keep instigating the interactions between your pets and instead closely supervise their movements. See if they choose to hang out together, while making sure that they have their own areas to eat, sleep and feel safe. Handling different pet temperaments can be tricky, but it’s about striking a good balance between supporting your new pet’s transition into the home, while making sure that the resident pets aren’t missing out on any attention. If you find there are some rougher interactions, retrace your introduction steps and start from the beginning again. Patience is key to fostering positive inter pet relationships, and if you are finding one or both pets (or yourself) are getting stressed out, reach out to your vet for expert advice on your situation. pet member of the household. When you are

Allowing your pets to smell and see each other through a barrier ensures each pet can remain safe during the initial introduction. Slowly start with a few minutes at a time and build up during a few sessions until each pet is comfortable enough to interact without the barrier. Be mindful of the behaviours and body language each pet is experiencing. Once both are relaxed in the room, bring the new puppy or kitten out of their crate, on a leash. Progressing slowly through this introduction means that neither will feel pressured or stressed, and prevents any acting out in fear or jealousy. Lavishing your new puppy or kitten with attention in front of your resident pets is a big no-no. Try positive reinforcement by rewarding existing pets with treats for the good behaviours they show towards the new pet. Remember, it’s important to make them feel comfortable and at ease, because this is their home that a newcomer is joining.

Ahead of time Preparation is key. There are some changes you can make to your home ahead of time to ensure that everyone is comfortable and ready for a new arrival. Remember, this is a big change for your new addition and for your existing pet. Keeping new pets separated from existing pets to start with can help reduce stress and allow everyone the time to slowly adjust to the new routine, smells and soon-to-be new furry friend. Start by setting up separate rooms or spaces for your new and existing pets, with their own food and water bowls, blankets or beds, and toys. Cats love secure safe spaces, so try placing igloo beds, boxes or blankets in higher spots for them to retreat to. First impressions but they don’t have to be made as soon as a new pet comes home. In fact, having your residents immediately meet a newbie face to-face isn’t the best We know that first impressions matter,

route to take. Instead, separate your pets, and allow them to explore the new scents in their own time. Once your new addition is feeling more comfortable in their new surroundings, put your resident pets in a secure room with food and water for a short time, and allow the newbie to explore the rest of the home or yard. Then, reverse the process so that your resident pet gets a feel for their new housemate. It’s important not to rush this step – keep repeating it over the next few days before you let them meet each other. bringing pets together is allowing them time to get used to each other in a positive environment, where they are treated as equals. One way to do this is to bring your existing dog or cat into the new pet’s room while you keep the new pet distracted in a crate, on a leash or in a carry cage with a toy or treats. Face-to-face A must-do when