How and When to Introduce a Second Pet

Most pet lovers around the globe have more than two pets. Managing two different pets is not an easy job unless you follow some specific guidelines. Here are some tips to keep in mind when introducing a new cat or dog.

Keeping two cats under a same roof is a challenging job. Cats are very sensitive and even a slight change in the dynamics of the house can be traumatic for them. When you are planning to introduce a new cat to the older one, make sure that the new one is a kitten. Kittens are easily and well accepted by adult cats. Older cats find it difficult to adjust with other cats that are of the same age. But a kitten of 2 or 3 months is perfect for this situation. Much older cats do not create such problems with new cats. But they prefer to mingle with the opposite gender. They may hiss at each other for few days initially but slowly their relationship will be on the right foot. Don't leave them together for a longer period of time in the initial days though. Let them built trust on each other.

Another important factor to consider when bringing a new cat home is to make sure that it is free from all kinds of diseases. Owners often play a part of the carrier unknowingly. The common diseases found in cats are chronic viral infection and leukemia. Be sure to get you cats vaccinated at regular intervals.

Now, if you want to add a second dog to your family, some of these tips may be useful. Since dogs are friendly animals and enjoy company of other dogs, introducing them to a new dog or puppy may not be a big problem. But a second dog can be a burden on you, so think twice before you bring it home. Dogs need more attention at the initial stage. Only get a second one when you have ample time to walk them both, pay their vet's bills and other expenses.

2-4 months of age is ideal age for dogs to be adopted. But remember that a puppy of that age might get attached more to your dog than you. The more you leave them together, the chances of getting emotionally attached are higher. Once that happens, the puppy will refuse to listen to your command. Maintain some distance between them in this period. Also, good care should be taken as the puppy will be teething. Opposite gender attracts more in the case of dogs. The two dogs you decide to have should not have too much of physical disparities. A Doberman and a Pomeranian is not a good match. Dogs are less likely to carry diseases still they should be vaccinated.

Before introducing your dogs to each other inside home, take them out for a walk. Ask one of your friends to take care of one and you take care of the other. Make them walk towards each other. They will sniff each other once they meet. After that, you can bring them both to your home. But always feed them at different places and at different times.