Pets are superb companions for you and your family. They are cute, cuddly, and always there to have fun, even if they sometimes demand a lot of attention, like toddlers. Keeping one pet is a full-time job, but any addition increases the responsibility of caring for them. You also have to get both new and old pets acquainted adequately with each other otherwise, there will be a big commotion. Here are a few tips for introducing a new family member amicably.

 

Consider What You Are In For

Bringing a new pet into the house is not based only on looks and which of their charm attracts you. You must decide what pet you want, an outdoorsy kind or chilling on the sofa all day. What other pets you have right now will determine how you will manage the welcoming rituals. Even though cats and dogs get along well, you still need to give them time to mingle.

Never Make a Rash Emotional Decision

It would be best if you took your whole family on board. There are just too many factors involved that need attention.

· How many pets do you already own?

· Do you have young kids at home or elderly parents because they need more attention?

· Is anyone else who can care for your pets when you are not there? They need to learn how to live without you for hours on end.

It would help if you also considered the extra cost of food, toys, sleeping beds, and time to take them out daily. Anything that gets overlooked will be detrimental to their health.

Learn About the Pet's History for a Good Match

Some cats and dogs go along well if they have been acquainted before; even playful dogs enjoy other dogs' company. But things might take time if any of the pets have been the sole pets of their previous homes. So knowing beforehand what options you have is crucial in choosing a new mate for your pet.

You Have to Know Your Original Pets Behaviour and Likings

Get a playful dog partner for a playful one at home. If he likes to sit calmly most of the day, don't bring an over-excited one; otherwise, there will be fights.

You must also consider if your dog is outdoorsy and loves to walk, run, and trek. So if you bring a similar one, you will have two wonderful and entertaining living, breathing beings in your hands. But can you handle two excited dogs at the same time?

Finally, the food your pet is tuned to is fundamental. You can't feed the new dog differently because the old one will not like it first. Secondly, it will get expensive fast.

Work on an Introduction Plan

Cats are one of the most possessive animals out there, and unless you let them get to know each other in a neutral environment, you will hear a lot of hissing. Some trainers recommend caging them together for several days to work out the kinks. Others say to love and cuddle with both cats together to give them a sense of security.

The same goes for dogs, but you need a more open environment like a park where you can introduce them and let them play together. One or two meetings can do the trick, and they will become best buddies.

 

Designate Separate Areas for Your Pets

Do this until both are ok with being around each other. Even after introducing your new pet to the family, confirm they have ample space to be alone. Pets are territorial in general and mark their territory. You will fight with your hands if the older pets aren't welcoming at the start.

This includes living and sleeping spaces, litter boxes, and even separate bowls and locations for them to eat. Slowly but steadily, you can bring these closer until they start overlapping. Most of the time, one pet will make the first move and show love and care. When you see them showing love, you should start petting or loving them together so they can understand you can be shared.

Always Reward Good Behavior

Treating animals and pets for their excellent behavior is a powerful motivation. Trainers rank this among the top things to train your pets quickly. If your pets get along well, give them treats or rewards. 

If you don't see any positive development, keep them as far from each other. You can show one love while not so much to the other so the pet can start demanding attention. They are not humans but learn very well what actions are needed to garner your attention.

Increase Healthy and Engaging Activities for Them to Bond

If you have cats, you can choose toys they can have fun with, like a climbing and scratching area. Anything that they can chase and get excited over.

Dogs are outdoorsy animals; taking them to parks and long walks with playful activities will bond them immensely. Any group activity where you can engage them both and they can have fun while running around is a top priority to make them at ease.

Be Patient, as Bonding Takes Time

The bond takes time. Very few lucky pets bond on the very first day. Most take their sweet time in opening up or trusting another furry contender. Sometimes it can take months for them to get to know each other well, and they may have many fights or growls. You must be patient if you love your pets and enjoy their company immensely. 

Animals, like humans, are social innately and love company, but before, you were their sole property or caregiver. Now they have to share, which most don't like. So give time to your pets to understand you have equal love for each.

Conclusion

Every pet has needs like any living being, such as food, clothing, medicine, love, and healthy activities. These things and activities require time and effort, so consider this before introducing a new pet to a home furry animal.