We love our pets so much that we may start thinking about doubling the joy by adding another pet to our family. To ensure you’re making the right choice by including another dog or cat in your home, here are some questions you can consider.
Does your pet really want a friend? If your pet is welcoming to other animals and shows interest in getting to know them in a positive way, then having a live-in companion might be a good idea. However, if your pet is territorial—as is usual for cats and many dogs—then you should expect to spend a lot of time helping both animals become accustomed to living together.
Do you have the space required for another pet? When you bring home a new pet, they should be kept in a separate, contained area—ideally a whole room. The new pet needs their own space so they can become accustomed to the new living situation and so that your current pet won’t feel as threatened by the stranger who has entered the house. In addition, each animal should have enough space to be by themself if they choose to be alone for eating and sleeping. You’ll also need room for more food bowls, water bowls, toys, and bedding. For two cats, you’ll need at least two litter boxes, placed well apart.
Do you have the time required for another pet? Slowly introducing a new pet can take days or weeks until both of your animals become friendly. You’ll need sufficient time to monitor and supervise them to make sure they don’t fight or otherwise get in trouble. Two pets also require more of your time so each one can be cuddled and shown the love they deserve. Walking two dogs together can seem ideal, but it definitely takes more time when each dog wants to sniff in a different direction or they get tangled in leashes. And if you’re adding a puppy to your pack, consider the time required for housebreaking and teaching the rules of your house to a newbie.
Are you well prepared for the expenses of two pets? The costs of food, vet care, medications, pet insurance, boarding and pet sitting, grooming, and all the materials pets generally require (toys, bedding, harness, leash, and even clothing) can be a burden or an opportunity and must be considered carefully.
Could you accept a change of attitude in your current pet? If you were the first child in your family and received all your parents’ attention, were you overjoyed or did you feel hurt, angry, or sad when a sibling came into the picture? Your current pet can feel those same emotions at the arrival of another animal, so be prepared to give both pets enough reassurance, attention, and love.
Are you prepared to return or rehome the second pet if things don’t work out? Animals have definite preferences and may not form the bond you hope for. It’s heartbreaking when two animals just don’t get along with each other, but sometimes that’s what happens. Being prepared for this outcome will help you set realistic standards for bringing another pet into the family.