Introducing a new pet to your family: how to help it go smoothly

Pets can be a wonderful addition to family life. They quickly become part of the household, helping children learn responsibility, empathy and how to care for others. But bringing a new pet home is a big change for everyone - from shifting routines and sharing space to learning new boundaries.

So, how can you ease a new addition into your family life? Here are our top tips to avoid cat-astrophe and strike the purr-fect balance.

Set yourself up for success

Welcoming a new pet should begin well before they come home. From getting the house prepared to making sure the whole family is ready and in agreement, a little planning goes a long way. 

Call a family meeting

Have a sit-down chat about the prospect of a new pet, covering what the daily routine will look like and who’s responsible for what. For dogs, this might mean morning and evening walks, while smaller animals like a hamster or guinea pig may need a regular cleaning schedule.

Younger children may be too young to take on full responsibility, but they can still help out where possible and start learning care duties from the get-go. Older kids - especially the ones who’ve asked for a pet in the first place - should understand the responsibility of owning a pet.

A pet isn’t a novelty gift that wears off, it’s a long-term commitment that needs care and consistency.

Make sure you’ve got all the kit

The checklist will differ from pet to pet, so do your research.

For dogs, puppies may require a bit more kit, such as a crate that becomes a safe space for them. If you’re adopting, make sure they’re microchipped and that the details are ready to be transferred into your name. You can use tools like Pet Database to help with this. 

You’ll need a cosy bed, food and water bowls, leads in a variety of lengths, a harness and some chew toys and treats to help them settle in. You’ll likely already know your dog’s routine and diet before bringing them home from the seller or rescuer - sticking to both can help settle them when you bring them home. 

Cats are generally more independent, though are typically kept indoors until after neutering to avoid unwanted pregnancies. They also need to learn where home is and get themselves comfortable with their new ‘HQ’. Stock up on food and water bowls, collars, toys, and treats. 

While cats may not pick one specific sleeping spot, adding cosy textures around the home can help them settle and scratching posts give them a place to stretch and de-stress without sacrificing your furniture. Well, that’s the hope anyway.

Create safe zones to reduce stress

Creating safe zones in your home is really important when bringing a new pet into the family. These are calm, secure spaces where they can retreat from the hustle and bustle to rest, feel safe or simply have some time out. 

Safe zones can help reduce stress levels and lower the risk of accidents. They’re also helpful for young children, as they create a clear boundary - teaching when it’s okay to interact and when a pet needs space. 

Even if you’re short on room, a safe zone doesn’t need to be fancy. A quiet corner with a cosy blanket and toys works well. You could drape a bedsheet over a chair to make a den, or use a cardboard box with a few special treats. If you’re using a crate for a new dog, place it in a quiet room away from household noise. 

Create a safe zone before your new pet comes home 

Getting off on the right paw

First impressions matter, so the initial meeting between your new pet and the children is an important one. 

Introduce the pet to one child at a time to avoid overwhelming them. Encourage children to speak in quiet, calm voices and let the pet take the lead - approaching when they feel comfortable rather than being reached for, hugged or picked up. 

When it comes to a new dog, the veterinary charity PDSA advises: 

“Make sure these experiences are positive for your dog or puppy and children by encouraging your child to throw treats on the floor for them. If your new pet seems stressed or uncomfortable, remove them from the situation, and try again later when they are calm.”

It’s also important to teach children clear rules for interacting with a new pet. Alongside using calm voices, the PDSA says children should let sleeping dogs lie, not disturb pets while they’re eating, avoid playing with their toys and keep their arms low. 

How to introduce existing pets to a new one

One of the most important things to remember is to go slow. Avoid rushing introductions, as this can cause stress for everyone involved. 

A new pet may benefit from having their own safe room at first. You can gradually mix scents by swapping toys or bedding between pets, helping them get used to each other before meeting face to face.

For cats and dogs, the animal welfare charity Blue Cross says they can make great housemates - as long as introductions happen at a gentle pace. 

Whether you’re introducing a new cat to a dog or welcoming a dog into a cat’s home, your cat will need a safe space that the dog can’t access. If a dog is joining a household with a resident cat, move the cat’s food, water, and litter tray into a room where they already feel secure. Stair gates are a great way to create a barrier while still allowing both pets to see and sniff each other safely (provided a cat can’t get through or over). 

“The number one rule is to make sure the dog is never allowed to chase the cat from the off. Otherwise it's a game for life,” Mumsnet user MaggieMagpie357 shared, while ItsCalledAConversation added: “You can’t force or rush it. Curiosity will win out for both of them in the end.”

Don’t expect miracles overnight

A new pet is an adjustment, so there’s likely to be a few bumps along the way. 

For both cats and dogs, Battersea Dogs & Cats Home assures that things like hiding, accidents, crying and a reduced appetite are common at first. Over time, things should improve - but don’t hesitate to seek advice from the charity you adopted from or your vet if you’re concerned. 

How to troubleshoot teething problems

Are the kids getting a bit too intense? Keeping them calm is important - though sometimes easier said than done. Safe zones can help when children become overexcited, and distracting them with another activity can give everyone a breather. 

It can also help to find positive ways for children and pets to spend time together. For dogs, the PDSA suggests going for walks, teaching simple tricks, trying an agility course or making homemade toys. For cats, children could help create toys or a cardboard box for them to explore. 

If you’re introducing a new dog to a resident dog and the existing pet seems sulky, give it time. Adjustments can take weeks and all animals are different - so some may take months to adjust. If problems persist, Battersea advises against forcing interactions, as this may make things worse. In these cases, it’s best to consult a qualified behaviourist. 

And what about new-pet remorse? It happens — and it’s something many parents on Mumsnet have talked about — so try not to beat yourself up.

“The stress of bringing in (in our case a pup) to a cat household was awful,” said MedievalNun. “But you will get through it.”

“This is a new flavour, a new addition to your family — all of you are going to build a relationship with each other, and soon you won’t be able to remember your life without her,” added something2say.

Laying the ground rules for children will help keep everyone calm and responsible

Plan ahead for your pet’s healthcare

All pets should be registered with a veterinary practice, where you can access routine healthcare, advice and emergency treatment. It’s a good idea to find a vet before your new pet comes home.

Microchipping is a legal requirement for both cats and dogs in the UK. Once done, updating your contact details is usually straightforward and can be done online, by phone or by post, depending on the database the chip is registered with (like Pet Database). 

If you’re adopting from a charity or shelter, your pet should come with up-to-date vaccinations and a health assessment. For example, Battersea Dogs & Cats Home health-checks all animals before rehoming and informs new owners of any known medical conditions.

Taking time to understand the ongoing costs and responsibilities of pet ownership can help you feel more prepared for whatever the future brings.

Frequently asked questions, answered

How long does it take for a new pet to settle in with kids and other pets?

It can take anywhere from a few days to several months. Gradual introductions, consistent routines and safe spaces help everyone adjust at their own pace.

What’s the safest way to introduce a new dog to a child?

Introduce one child at a time, encourage calm voices, and always let the dog approach. Avoid forcing hugs or picking the dog up, and supervise all interactions closely.

How do you introduce a new dog to a resident dog without fights?

Go slow, keep initial meetings short, swap scents first and supervise closely. If tensions continue, consult a qualified behaviourist.

How do you introduce a puppy or dog to a cat?

Provide the cat with a safe, dog-free space. Use baby gates or barriers, supervise interactions, and never allow the dog to chase the cat.

Should you let your children hold the new pet straight away?

Ideally not, especially if the pet seems hesitant. Let them settle first and build trust. Children can start with gentle petting or helping with feeding.

What are the signs your pet is stressed — and what should you do first?

Owners should learn to read subtle cues from their pets before they become too stressed. Signs vary by animal, but may include hiding, growling, whining, pacing or refusing food. They may just simply want some space for peace and quiet. Try giving them access to a safe zone or quiet room, then gradually reintroduce interaction.

What if the kids lose interest after the first week?

Encourage involvement with small, manageable responsibilities like feeding or grooming. Finding fun, respectful ways to play together can also help.

When should you speak to a vet or behaviourist?

If stress, aggression, illness or behaviour problems persist despite patience and training, seek professional advice promptly from your vet or a qualified behaviourist.

About Animal Friends

Animal Friends was founded in 1998 with a simple mission: to support animal welfare and help pets live happy, healthy lives.

Over the years, the company has contributed more than £10 million to animal welfare charities and conservation organisations in the UK and around the world, supporting projects that protect vulnerable animals and the people who care for them.

Through its charitable giving and community initiatives, Animal Friends aims to make a positive difference beyond pet ownership - helping to create a better future for animals everywhere.