How to Welcome a New Dog or Cat into Your Home

Adding a new dog or cat to your household is exciting. There are few things more fun than welcoming a new pet into your home. However, this is also a major adjustment for everyone involved, including your current pets. At Peterborough West Animal Hospital, we often offer advice to help families navigate those first days, offering tips to help introductions go smoothly and safely, and set pets up for long-term harmony.

This guide from a Peterborough, ON vet walks you through what to do before, during, and after bringing home a new pet—so you can foster friendship, not friction.

Before the Introduction: Set the Stage

Planning ahead is key to reducing stress and preventing conflict. Whether you’re introducing cats, dogs, or both, give each pet space to adjust on their own terms.

Prep Checklist:

• Have separate spaces ready: Let your new pet decompress in a quiet spot
• Gather supplies: Food, toys, bowls, litter boxes, and beds
• Exchange scents: Rub a cloth on each pet and leave it in the other’s space
• Schedule a wellness check: Ensure both pets are healthy before allowing them to meet

Pro Tip: Use baby gates or crates to allow safe observation before direct contact.

First Meetings: Go Slow and Stay Calm

Initial introductions should be brief, supervised, and low-stress. Pets take first impressions very seriously! Rushing this step can backfire.

Dog-to-Dog Introductions:

• Start on neutral ground

• Watch body language closely
• Separate and start over if tension rises

Dog-to-Cat Introductions:

• Let the cat explore the house first
• Keep dog on leash initially
• Allow the cat to approach at their own pace
• Provide vertical space for the cat to escape or observe from above

Cat-to-Cat Introductions:

• Use scent swapping and short, visual meetings
• Feed near opposite sides of a closed door
• Gradually increase shared space access over days or weeks
• Offer dual play sessions

Managing Ongoing Interactions

Even if the first meeting goes well, integration takes time. Be consistent, patient, and proactive.

Tips for Success:

• Maintain routine for existing pets to reduce stress
• Use positive reinforcement (treats, praise) for calm behavior
• Separate pets when unsupervised until fully acclimated
• Monitor for resource guarding over food, toys, or humans

When to Seek Help

Sometimes, introductions don’t go smoothly. Don’t panic—your vet or a certified trainer can help.

Warning Signs:

• Persistent aggression or fear (growling, lunging, hiding)
• Injury or severe stress reactions
• Resource guarding that doesn’t improve

Early support prevents long-term issues. Ask your Peterborough, ON vet for advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I keep pets separated?

At least a few days—sometimes longer. Let your furry pals’ behavior and comfort levels guide you.

Is it easier to introduce a puppy or kitten than an adult pet?

It often is, but not always. Young pets may adapt faster, but adults with good socialization histories often do well too.

Should I feed pets together?

Not at first. Feed in separate spaces to avoid competition or guarding. Ask your vet for more information. 

Contact Our Cavan Monaghan, ON Veterinary Hospital

Bringing home a new pet is a big milestone—and with the right approach, it can be a joyful one. Planning, patience, and expert veterinary guidance go a long way in building a peaceful, loving multi-pet household. If you’re looking for a great veterinary hospital in Cavan Monaghan, ON, you can try googling “best vet near me” … or just come to us!