Introducing a New Pet to Your Home (Without the Drama)

Bringing a new pet into a home with existing animals is exciting, but rushing the introductions is the number-one cause of long-term squabbles. Slow and steady wins here.

Before they meet

• Set up a separate space for the newcomer with their own bed, food, water and (for cats) litter tray.
• Let them get used to each other's scent first — swap bedding between them for a few days.

Dog to dog

Introduce on neutral ground, like a park, with both on leads and a calm handler each. Keep it short and positive, watch body language, and let them sniff without forcing it. Do a few of these before they meet at home.

Cat to cat

Cats need patience. Keep them separated at first, then swap rooms so they explore each other's scent. Progress to seeing each other through a barrier (like a cracked door or baby gate), and only allow full contact once both are relaxed. This can take days or weeks — let them set the pace.

Cat and dog

Keep the dog calm and on a lead, and give the cat a high escape route and the freedom to leave. Never let a dog chase, even in play. Reward calm behaviour from both.

Give it time

Feed them separately at first, give each pet their own attention, and don't panic over a bit of early hissing or grumbling. Most pets learn to live happily together — sometimes as best friends — when the introduction is done gently.