Introducing Your New Pet to Your Existing Pet(s): A Step-by-Step Guide

Bringing a new pet into your home is exciting, but introductions should be done slowly and thoughtfully to help everyone feel safe and comfortable. Rushing the process can lead to stress, fear, or conflict—so patience is key.

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Before You Begin

• Set up a separate space for your new pet called a "starter room" - click here to see our guide.

• Make sure each pet has their own food, water, litter box (for cats), bedding, and toys.

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Step 1: Decompression Period

Give your new pet time to settle into their new environment - we recommend at least 2 weeks. Click here to see our guide on the 3-3-3 rule about a cat's timeline to adjusting to their new home.

• Keep pets completely separate during this time.

• Allow your new pet to adjust to sounds, smells, and routines.

• This helps reduce stress and prevents overwhelming either animal.

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Step 2: Scent Introduction

Animals rely heavily on scent, so this is a critical step.

• Swap bedding or toys between pets.

• Gently rub a cloth on one pet and place it near the other.

• Feed pets on opposite sides of a closed door so they associate each other’s scent with something positive.

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Step 3: Controlled Visual Introduction

Once both pets seem calm with each other’s scent:

• Allow them to see each other through a barrier (baby gate, cracked door, carrier).

• Keep sessions short and positive.

• Use treats, praise, or play to create good associations.

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Step 4: Supervised Meetings

When both pets appear relaxed:

• Allow short, supervised interactions in a neutral space.

• Keep dogs on leash initially; allow cats to move freely and retreat if needed.

• Watch body language closely:

  • Good signs: curiosity, relaxed posture, gentle sniffing

  • Warning signs: hissing, growling, stiff posture, raised fur

If there’s tension, calmly separate and try again later.

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Step 5: Gradual Increase in Time Together

• Slowly increase the length and frequency of interactions.

• Continue supervising until you’re confident they are comfortable.

• Maintain separate feeding areas and safe spaces.

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Important Tips

• Go at the pace of the more cautious pet.

• Never force interaction.

• Provide plenty of escape routes and vertical space (especially for cats).

• Keep routines consistent to reduce stress.

• Expect the process to take days to weeks (or longer).

• Setbacks are normal—just go back a step if needed.

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Typical Timeline Overview

• Fast, easy introductions: ~1–2 weeks

• Average: 2–4 weeks

• Slower or more sensitive pets: 4–8+ weeks