I did a reading the other day for someone who had two kittens on their way to a new home.  She was concerned that the new family might not “get it.”  So I had to remind her of some “House Rules” as regards new pets.

First off, new pets will be more than a little off their game.  Imagine yourself being dropped into a whole new place. Putting them into a small room will help (versus being air-dropped into a giant stadium).  They’ll have a chance to sniff and sense, and do it all in a space that’s not too overwhelming. A small room gives them more than a moment to pick up what’s going on around them and process it in a way that their pet-brains can access.

For my friend, who noted that the new family spent many hours away at work, a small space is a smarter option than letting them run willy-nilly thru the house. Because that should come with supervision.  If you let a new pet into your space when you’re not sure how they’ll behave, you’re sure to get some unwelcome surprises.

Many new pet parents may think that keeping a new critter in an enclosed space is mean – but it’s just the opposite.  Giving your pet a safe, enclosed place will help them better acclimate – and in a way that you can manage.  When you’re not around to watch them interact with your home, it’s best to put them somewhere where they won’t feel overwhelmed.  When you CAN observe them as they explore, you’ll have a much better understanding of how you should deal with them.

So keep a few things in mind regarding a new pet:

-Keep it “small.”  Whether it’s a crate for a puppy or a small room for a kitten, let your new pet first observe and experience your home via a contained area.  They will be more comfortable — and you’ll avoid unnecessary problems.

-Observe your pet in your home…while you’re around.  Let your new cat or dog have a good sniff around your place, with you keeping a discreet distance.  Allow them to explore, don’t shout or comment — just watch.  As they become more acclimated, you’ll note the places they go most often.  If any of them are a problem, there are ways to deter them: from sprays to hard surface treatments and more.

The main thing to keep in mind is that coming into your home is a big change for a pet.  A smart pet-parent helps them get into the groove by taking baby steps.  The amount of time you put into the “introduction” phase will pay off well down the road.

So be patient, put the time in — and before you know it, you’ll find that your new pet has become a beloved, well-behaved member of your family.