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How to Introduce a New Dog or Cat into Your Home: A Step-by-Step Guide

by My Store Admin 09 Oct 2025

Bringing a new dog or cat into your home is exciting—but it can also be stressful for your existing pets and the newcomer. Done right, the introduction can strengthen bonds, reduce fear, and set the stage for a peaceful multi-pet household. This guide offers a step-by-step method to help your pets adjust comfortably.


1. Prepare Your Home in Advance

  • Create a safe, quiet zone for the new pet (with food, water, bed, litter box)

  • Ensure existing pets have their own safe spaces

  • Remove triggers (toys, food, scents) and prepare gradual smells’ exchange


2. First Meetings (Scent & Controlled Exposure)

  • Exchange bedding or blankets so pets get used to each other’s scent

  • Use barrier (baby gate, crate) for first visual introduction

  • Keep interactions short and supervised


3. Feeding & Resource Management

  • Feed pets in separate areas to avoid competition

  • Provide multiple bowls, toys, litter boxes

  • Monitor food guarding or possessive behavior


4. Gradual Face-to-Face Introductions

  • Once calm with visual introduction, allow supervised short meetings

  • Use positive reinforcement (treats, praise)

  • If signs of stress, separate and retry later


5. Building Trust & Reducing Fear

  • Let pets explore at their own pace

  • Encourage gentle interactions

  • Don’t force contact

  • Use scent markers, toys, and interactive play to create positive associations


6. Handling Conflicts or Stress Behaviors

  • Provide escape routes and hiding spots

  • Use calming products (pheromone diffusers, sprays)

  • Monitor behavior; separate temporarily if aggression occurs

  • Consult a behaviorist if issues persist


7. Tips for Multi-Pet Households

  • Gradual increase in interaction time

  • Rotate attention across all pets

  • Monitor for signs of jealousy or dominance

  • Provide enrichment: toys, play, individual attention


Recommended Products

  • Pet Calming Diffuser / Spray

  • Separate Bowls & Feeding Mats

  • Safety / Intro Barrier (Baby Gate, Pet Gate)

  • Interactive Toys for Distracting

  • Comfort Bedding & Blankets

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