Introducing a new kitten or puppy into the family is an incredibly exciting prospect. Whether you’ve only adopted older pets before or are new to animals entirely, you might be lost on puppy and kitten protocol. Young pets require a lot of attention and care, from your first animal clinic visit to learning how to handle mischief. To help you navigate this new experience, here are the do’s and don’ts of getting a puppy or kitten.

Do:

Plan introductions.

Never improvise introductions, especially when you have other pets or young children in the house. Current pets can be territorial and won’t take kindly to a sudden potential threat to their home. Children who haven’t lived with pets before also need to be taught about respecting boundaries. Be calm and in charge during introductions, and supervise all interactions for the first few weeks.

Visit the vet.

Young pets get sick easily and are more susceptible to parasites. For this reason, it’s important to visit an animal clinic within the first few days of getting your puppy or kitten. The veterinarian will give your pet a full physical exam to ensure they’re in good health, then recommend any treatments, medication, or vaccines your kitten or puppy may need.

Spay & neuter them.

Most shelters spay and neuter animals before adopting them out, so you may not need to worry about it. But those who picked up their furry friend from a pet shop or breeder, sterilization is something to consider seriously. Spaying and neutering by a professional animal clinic can reduce territorial behaviors, roaming, and the risk of developing certain types of cancer.

Don’t:

Yell at them.

Puppies and kittens are prone to misbehaving. From leaving little “surprises” to scratching up furniture, there are many unwanted habits you’ll probably want to correct. But yelling at an animal is not going to teach them anything. Remember, your pet can’t understand you, and you’ll only end up scaring them. Be patient and make sure to reinforce good behavior positively.

Skimp on exercise.

Though puppies and kittens are small, they still need to work out. Designate playtime with your new pet to keep them happy and healthy. Kittens and puppies love to play, and it’s a great opportunity for you to bond with your new pet. As a bonus, when they’re tuckered out, they won’t be running around and causing mayhem.

Makai Pet Hospital of Kailua, HI, is happy to help you welcome a new puppy or kitten into your home. This animal clinic takes pride in their advanced medical practices and technology, as well as their commitment to the health and comfort of every pet they treat. With comprehensive services such as dermatology, internal medicine, reproduction, dentistry, and chemotherapy, they’re here for all of your pet’s needs. Contact their clinic at (808) 262-9621 today to schedule an appointment. To learn more about their services, visit them online.