For those in multi-pet households, it is not always going to be sunshine and rainbows. It could be nice to presume that introducing new animals to one another and a new surroundings is as simple as tossing all of them in together and hoping for them to simply go along but unfortunately it is just not that simple. They are basically step-kids and their whole world will be turned upside down, so listed below are a few tips to try to ease that difficult transition, that is usually to be realistic. As stated earlier, simply because you would like them to have along, it will not mean they will certainly. Some animals are content being more solitary than the others and perhaps the greatest outcome you can achieve is actually for both animals to co-habit in harmony without hostility; they could never become “best buds”:
- It is crucial that you remain patient and work at speeds that your animals are more comfortable with, not the rate from which you would like them to. Initial introductions should always be brief (5-10 minutes) after which let them slowly save money time together as they are more relaxed.
- Never leave pets that are new to one another alone! Just one dog bite to a cat or small dog may be fatal, and even without injury it would likely result with the two animals being extremely uncomfortable with one another for good. If you wish to leave for work etc, ensure that the animals are separated from one another.
- Confinement permits animals to get used to the new environment without having the diversion of a new animal as well. A beneficial confined area should be a comfy space such as an extra room or even a crate if your dog is already crate trained.
- Be sure to praise or reward your pet each time there is successful interaction amongst the two animals. Keep in mind that a fruitful interaction may be as simple as one animal walking away when they feel uncomfortable in the situation. Try not to punish animals for aggressive behaviour. They’re simply trying to inform you that they are not happy. In this case it is best to remove them from the situation and try again once they are relaxed and less agitated. Whipping them from showing these anxious behaviours could possibly make fighting much more likely in the future.
- Reduce stress. Consider using pheromone sprays at home that have been proven to reduce pet anxiety.
Keep in mind that there are no difficult and fast rules – every situation significantly differs from the others. You should also take into account the animal, how old they are, whether they are female or male, what type of breed they are and what their traits or temperaments are like. You are recommended to consult with a reputable veterinary hospital like River Stone Vets to do a full health examination and check-up prior to introducing new animal to one another.