Setting Up for Success

Adding a new pet to an existing household is one of the most common triggers for behavioural problems. The excitement of a new companion can quickly turn to stress if the introduction is rushed or the household is not prepared.

Before you bring a new pet home, consider these factors honestly:

• Your current pet’s temperament — Are they sociable with other animals? Have they been socialised? Do they show any resource guarding behaviours?
• Space — Do you have enough room for separate eating, sleeping, and toileting areas? Can you provide a retreat space for each pet?
• Time — The introduction process can take days, weeks, or even months. Do you have the time and patience for a gradual approach?
• Budget — Multiple pets mean multiplied vet costs, food, insurance, and care expenses
• Species compatibility — Not all combinations work. A high-prey-drive dog breed may never be safe with a cat or small animal, regardless of training

The single most important factor in a successful introduction is going slowly. Rushing is the number one mistake pet parents make.

Before the new pet arrives, set up the physical environment:

• Separate feeding stations — Each pet needs their own food and water bowls in different locations. This is non-negotiable for the introduction period and often permanently
• Separate sleeping areas — Each pet needs a safe retreat they can access without passing the other pet
• For cats: additional litter trays. The rule is one tray per cat plus one extra, in different locations
• Baby gates or barriers — Essential for controlled introductions. Tall baby gates (available from $30–$80 AUD at Bunnings or Big W) allow visual contact without physical access
• Separate toys and enrichment — Having enough resources reduces competition
• Vertical space for cats — Cat trees, shelves, and high perches give cats an escape route and a sense of security. Cats feel safer when they can observe from above